Ambati Rayudu withdraws from inaugural MLC season as BCCI chews over ‘cooling off’ period for retired cricketers

Ambati Rayudu. (Photo Source: Twitter)

Ambati Rayudu recently announced his IPL retirement and returned to cricket as he signed a deal with Texas Super Kings for the inaugural MLC season. However, Rayudu won’t be able to play for the Texas Super Kings due to personal reasons.

Rayudu’s retirement from IPL cricket was marked by a remarkable performance in the IPL 2023 final. He played a crucial role in CSK’s victory, contributing a dashing cameo of 19 runs off just eight balls. The impressive display not only helped CSK chase down the target, but also made Rayudu the joint-most successful player in the history of the IPL, sharing the record with Rohit Sharma with six IPL trophies.

In recent news, Rayudu expressed his interest in entering politics. According to reports from The Times of India, he is expected to join Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Jagan Mohan Reddy’s YSRCP party and is planning to contest the 2024 elections.

Interestingly, the news of Rayudu’s withdrawal from the MLC Season One coincided with BCCI secretary Jay Shah hinting at the board’s contemplation of a policy concerning predetermined retirements of Indian cricketers for foreign leagues. Shah mentioned the development of a policy aimed at curbing the trend of pre-determined retirements and stated that the proposed policy would be sent back to the Apex Council for approval within a month.

The BCCI has been grappling with the issue of Indian players retiring prematurely to participate in lucrative T20 leagues abroad. With concerns regarding this trend, the Apex Council has entrusted the board’s office-bearers with the task of formulating a policy on the involvement of retired Indian players in foreign leagues.

The primary aim of the BCCI is to address the concerns related to predetermined retirements and prevent potential exploitation. The introduction of a cooling-off period is being considered, but careful consideration and the final decision rests with the BCCI.

The proposed policy has faced criticism for being exploitative and discriminatory, raising concerns about individual rights. Fans, observers, and journalists have expressed discontent and questioned the legality and fairness on social media. The BCCI is at a crucial juncture, aiming to balance Indian cricket interests with players’ aspirations.