Ambati Rayudu aims to be back in blue after yo-yo disappointment
Indian cricketer Ambati Rayudu has found himself back in the fray again, after passing the yo-yo test months after being withdrawn from the ODI squad because of failing the same test. Rayudu has been working hard on his fitness and has stated that he was disappointed after failing the test.
In July, when India were playing an ODI series in England, Ambati Rayudu was enjoying his time in Yorkshire, mentoring a bunch of age-group cricketers, handpicked by his IPL franchise Chennai Super Kings, on an exchange programme. However, recently he cleared the yo-yo test in order to be back in the battle.
Less than 24 hours after being drafted into the India A side, Rayudu once again proved his mettle as his unbeaten half-century helped the hosts secure a victory against Australia A. However, he expressed his disappointment after missing out on the England tour and felt it was important to be fit in order to play for the national team.
“I was disappointed with myself that I could not clear the test before the England tour. I have nothing against the test at all as everybody has to be there at a certain fitness level, to play for India. To be honest, I believe in it,” Rayudu said.
When the teams for the quadrangular series were announced, Rayudu was not included among the 30 players across the two Indian squads, because he had not yet taken the yo-yo test. Earlier this week, he completed the test, met the parameters prescribed by the team management, and made it to the India A squad.
Speaking about fitness, the 32-year-old said it is important to be fit in sports and in order to play for India. He was happy about the importance that has been given to fitness by following a benchmark (the yo-yo test benchmark) in a disciplined manner and further expressed his feelings after being selected for India A.
“Fitness is definitely important for cricket. Obviously one has to be absolutely fit to play. I am happy that there is a certain kind of benchmark and a bar. It is just that everybody has to respect it and move forward. This year, I could not clear the test for the last series, so I am actually happy to be back to play for India A,” he added.
Rayudu, who is ready for another audition ahead of next year’s World Cup in England, finally concluded by saying that he is happy to be back and is eagerly waiting for another opportunity.
“In a country of billion people if you are able to represent your country, you will be happy, it is a matter of pride. I am happy that I am now in the scheme of things. I am just waiting for another opportunity,” Rayudu said.
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