Vaibhav Tripathi
Former Indian cricketer Ambati Rayudu shared his delight about making his debut in the Caribbean Premier League (CPL), underscoring the contrast in ambiance between CPL and the Indian Premier League (IPL). Rayudu’s entry makes him the second Indian cricketer, following Pravin Tambe, to participate in the men’s CPL.
“I have heard some really good things about the league, especially the standard of cricket that’s played here. I am happy to be part of the St. Kitts & Nevis Patriots. Pollard and Bravo used to talk a lot about the CPL. This is the first time I’m playing in a dressing room without any Indians, so that’s a bit strange and it feels a bit different but they’re really nice people. They have been very warm. Playing in the CPL is a very different experience as compared to playing in India. They have a lot of music and a lot of fun, it’s all a bit new to me but I’m really enjoying it so far,” Ambati Rayudu said in an interview with Fancode.
Retiring from IPL and domestic cricket after 2023 season of the IPL, Rayudu joined the Texas Super Kings, CSK’s affiliate in the inaugural Major League Cricket (MLC) in the USA. However, due to personal reasons, he withdrew from the MLC despite being a significant signing.
His choice emerged amid discussions about a possible cooling-off period by the BCCI, restricting recently-retired players from joining foreign leagues immediately after retiring. Rayudu subsequently debuted for St Kitts & Nevis Patriots in the CPL on August 19 against Trinbago Knight Riders. However, rain affected the match, and Rayudu did not have a chance to bat.