Ambati Rayudu, a former cricketer for India, stated he was enjoying his first season in the Caribbean Premier League (CPL), pointing out the atmosphere differences between the CPL and the Indian Premier League. Rayudu joined Pravin Tambe as the only other Indian cricketer to play in the CPL for men.
Rayudu joined the Texas Super Kings, Chennai Super Kings' sister team, for the first Major League Cricket (MLC) in the USA after leaving the IPL and domestic cricket after Chennai Super Kings' successful run in 2023. Despite being one of the primary signings for the Texas Super Kings, Rayudu chose to leave the MLC for personal reasons.Â
His choice was made amid rumors that the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) was considering a cooling-off period policy that may prevent retired players from playing in foreign competitions away after their retirement.
The CPL debut of Rayudu for St. Kitts & Nevis Patriots vs. Trinbago Knight Riders was finally made on August 19. Rayudu, however, was denied the chance to bat because of the rain that disrupted the game.
"I have heard a lot of great things about the league, particularly the caliber of cricket played here. Rayudu expressed his happiness upon joining the St. Kitts & Nevis Patriots.
Rayudu explained his choice to participate in the CPL by stating that Kieron Pollard and Dwayne Bravo, a former teammate of his from CSK, had both raved about the T20 competition.
"Pollard and Bravo used to discuss the CPL a lot. They are incredibly kind folks, but it is a little unusual and different for me to be playing in a dressing room without any Indians. They've been incredibly welcoming.
"Compared to playing in India, playing in the CPL is an entirely different experience. Even though it's all a little new to me, I'm really enjoying it so far. They have a lot of fun and music.
Â
