Aakash Chopra, a former India international, commended Ambati Rayudu, the experienced batsman of the Chennai Super Kings, for his significant contributions in the recently concluded IPL 2023. Chopra praised how captain MS Dhoni effectively utilized Rayudu’s skills throughout the tournament and highlighted his adaptability to bat in various positions. Additionally, Chopra mentioned that Rayudu greatly benefited from the ‘Impact Player’ rule implemented this season.
Particularly noteworthy was Rayudu’s exceptional performance during the finals against the Gujarat Titans, where he played a remarkable cameo, scoring 19 runs off just eight deliveries, effectively revitalizing Chennai Super Kings’ chances in the match. Although Rayudu had a largely disappointing season with the bat overall, his crucial contribution in the final played a pivotal role in the MS Dhoni-led team clinching their fifth tournament victory in history.
Aakash Chopra praises Ambati Rayudu
“Very few people have a trophy in hand after playing their final match. Dhoni used him very well this year, that he will be the Impact Player if they are batting second, and that he could opt not to field if they got to bat first. The last match he played, if Chennai won the tournament, his knock was extremely important,” Chopra said.
“In fact, he struck two sixes and a four in the three balls before he got – 16 runs in three balls. You needed 10 runs off the last two balls. If he had scored only 10 runs in those three balls, you would have needed 16 off the last two balls, which couldn’t have been scored,” he added.
Ambati Rayudu concluded his IPL career as one of the most accomplished franchise cricketers of recent times. With six IPL trophies to his name, Rayudu has an impressive track record. Recognizing his achievements, Aakash Chopra praised Rayudu’s versatility, highlighting his ability to adapt to any role assigned by the team management.
“He picked up not one or two but six trophies – three for Mumbai and three for Chennai. He played important roles, he used to score runs in whichever position he got to bat. He played extremely well against spin, there is no doubt about that, but he was also very effective against fast bowling. He just understood how to score runs, how to play big shots, when to take chances and when not to,” he said.
