New Delhi: Former Indian cricketer Ambati Rayudu joined Andhra Pradesh's ruling party Yuvajana Sramika Rythu Congress Party (YSRCP), in the presence of chief minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddy in Vijayawada on Thursday. Deputy CM Narayan Swamy and YSRCP leader Peddireddy Mithun Reddy were also present.
Taking to X, YSRCP posted, “Famous Indian cricketer Ambati Tirupati Rayudu joined the YSR Congress Party in the presence of Chief Minister Shri YS Jagan at the CM Camp office. Deputy CM Narayana Swamy and MP Peddireddy Mithun Reddy participated in this program."
CM Jagan Reddy inducted Rayudu into his party by putting a YSRCP scarf around his neck and embracing him.
Rayudu represented the Indian cricket team in international tournaments and also took part in the Indian Premier League (IPL). He has also played for several state cricket organisations. Hailing from Andhra Pradesh, the 37-year-old former cricketer retired after IPL in 2023.
Rayudu was signed by CSK's sister franchise Texas Super Kings after he announced retirement from the IPL this year. However, he had to withdraw from the inaugural Major League Cricket in the USA due to personal reasons.
Ambati Rayudu has played 55 ODI matches and scored 1694 runs at an average of 47.06.
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According to reports, after retiring from cricket, Rayadu had said he wishes to join politics. However, before that he wanted to visit different parts of the state to understand the problems ailing the people.
Speculations are rife that the former cricketer would contest the 2024 general elections from either Guntur or Machilipatnam parliamentary constituency in Andhra Pradesh. However, Rayudu has denied such claims.