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'It is For My Father,' Ambati Rayudu Dedicates His Farewell Knock To His Folks, CSK & MI

image-li9cd0gzRayudu played an impactful knock of 18 in IPL 2023 Final (AP Photo)

Before the start of the summit clash of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2023, Chennai's Ambati Rayudu announced that the final would be his farewell game, and he won't take a U-turn after it. And, he ended his professional career on a high, slamming a crucial 19-run knock, which consisted of two maximums and a boundary, to help the Super Kings script history at Ahmedabad on Tuesday.

After CSK's fifth title clinch, just like MS Dhoni, Rayudu was full of emotions, and his eyes could tell the whole story. While talking to the broadcaster, the pain was evident in the batter's voice as he thanked the franchise's fans, his family and especially his father before bidding adios to his 22-year-long career.

The 37-year-old batter called Chennai's campaign in this edition of the league a fairytale, which finished like a dream tale.

"I mean it is a fairytale finish. I couldn't have asked for more. I mean it is unbelievable. Was fortunate to have this. I couldn't have asked for more," the CSK veteran said.

He joined the Super Kings ahead of the IPL 2018 and has played an integral part in the team's three triumphs since then. Before Chennai, the Andhra Pradesh-based cricketer spent good eight years with Mumbai Indians bagging three trophies with them. 

Rayudu thanked both franchises and stated he has been fortunate to be a part of such sides.

 "I'm fortunate to have played in really great sides. I can smile for the rest of my life. All the hard work I've done in the last 30 years, I'm happy I got to finish on this note. I would really like to thank my family, my father. Without them this wouldn't have been possible," he added.

After an illustrious 205-match-old IPL career, Rayudu retires as one of the most successful players to have played in the league. Now, he has won six IPL trophies, which is the joint most alongside Rohit Sharma.