Ambati Rayudu joins St Kitts & Nevis Patriots for CPL 2023 | Cricket News

NEW DELHI: Former Indian cricketer Ambati Rayudu, renowned for his stints in Indian Premier League (IPL) and international cricket, is set to make his mark in the Caribbean Premier League (CPL) as he joins the St Kitts & Nevis Patriots.

Rayudu’s signing with the St Kitts & Nevis Patriots is significant, positioning him as their marquee player, as per ESPNcricinfo’s report. The 37-year-old’s cricketing journey took an intriguing turn following his engagement with CSK’s sister franchise, Texas Super Kings, for the inaugural Major Cricket League (MLC) in the USA.
However, Rayudu’s plans for the MLC took an unexpected turn due to the evolving policies of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI). Amidst speculations surrounding a cooling-off period policy, designed to prevent retired players from promptly participating in overseas leagues, Rayudu made the decision to abstain from participating in the MLC.

The BCCI, India’s cricket governing body, is yet to announce its stance on the proposed cooling-off period policy. If enacted, this policy could impact the ability of retired players to engage in foreign leagues shortly after their retirement from active cricket.
Should Rayudu step onto the field in the CPL, he will secure a distinct place in history as the second Indian cricketer to participate in the tournament. Pravin Tambe stands as the sole Indian player to have previously ventured into the Caribbean Premier League.
(With inputs from PTI)