Ambati Thirupathi Rayudu is a former Indian international cricketer, politician, and commentator
Known as a reliable middle-order batsman, he played 61 ODIs and 6 T20Is between 2013 and 2019.
Rayudu claimed six IPL titles—the most by any player after Rohit Sharma. Since retiring, he’s ventured into Major League Cricket and active politics.
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Table of Contents
Ambati Rayudu’s Biography
Ambati Rayudu, born on September 23, 1985, in Guntur, Andhra Pradesh, India, was introduced to the world of cricket at a young age by his father, Sambasiva Rao.
Working at the archives department, Rayudu’s father played a pivotal role in nurturing his son’s passion for the sport.1
From coaching camps to practice sessions and tournaments, Rayudu’s father provided unwavering support and encouragement, laying the foundation for his cricketing journey.
Emergence in Youth Cricket
At the age of 16, Rayudu burst onto the cricketing scene with a spectacular performance against England in the Under-19 One Day International (ODI) series in 2002.
His unbeaten knock of 177 runs showcased his talent and potential, earning him widespread recognition and acclaim. This early success marked the beginning of Rayudu’s promising career in cricket.
Rise to Prominence in Domestic Cricket
Rayudu’s journey continued as he transitioned to domestic cricket, representing Hyderabad in the prestigious Ranji Trophy.
In a remarkable display of skill and determination, he became the youngest player to achieve a significant milestone in the tournament, scoring both a hundred and a double century in the same match.
This extraordinary feat solidified Rayudu’s reputation as a rising star in Indian cricket, garnering attention from fans and selectors alike.
Challenges and Triumphs
Despite facing challenges along the way, including injuries and setbacks, Rayudu’s resilience and commitment to the game never wavered. He continued to hone his craft, delivering consistent performances and contributing to his team’s success.
Rayudu’s ability to overcome obstacles and maintain his focus amidst adversity is a testament to his character and determination.
Latest News & Highlights on Him
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As of mid‑2025, Rayudu remains active with Texas Super Kings in Major League Cricket.
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His political journey with Jana Sena Party continues, though latest positions or campaigns have not yet been widely reported.
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Reports suggest he maintains involvement in IPL commentary and youth cricket mentoring.
Ambati’s International Career & IPL Stardom
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International Debut: Made ODI debut in July 2013 vs Zimbabwe, scoring 63*; overall, in 55 ODIs he amassed 1,694 runs at an average of 47.06, including 3 centuries.
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Major T20 Events: Played 6 T20 Internationals between 2014–15, scoring 42 runs.
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IPL Achievements:
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Represented Mumbai Indians (2010–17), securing three titles.
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Joined Chennai Super Kings (2018–23), adding another three titles and scoring his maiden IPL century in 2018.2
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Retired from IPL on 28 May 2023.
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Deeply saddened by the tragic plane crash in Ahmedabad. My heartfelt condolences to the families of the victims. Praying for strength and peace for all those affected. 🙏🏻
— ATR (@RayuduAmbati) June 12, 2025
Rayudu’s Journey through Youth and Domestic Cricket
Ambati Rayudu’s journey in cricket began in the late-90s when he started playing for Hyderabad’s youth teams at the Under-16 and Under-19 levels.
His exceptional talent and skill were evident from a young age, earning him recognition and opportunities to showcase his abilities on the cricketing stage.
Rayudu’s standout performance for the India Under-15 team at the ACC Under-15 Trophy in 2000 further solidified his reputation as a promising young talent.
Finishing as the leading run-scorer of the tournament and winning the man of the match in the final against Pakistan, Rayudu’s potential was undeniable.
Transition to Senior Team
Rayudu’s prolific run-scoring at the age-group levels caught the attention of selectors, leading to his inclusion in the senior team squad of Hyderabad.
Despite his youth, Rayudu’s precocious talent and maturity on the field earned him a place in the senior team setup, marking the beginning of his journey in domestic cricket.3
Debut in First-Class Cricket
- In January 2002, at the age of just 16, Ambati Rayudu made his debut in first-class cricket for Hyderabad during the 2001–02 Ranji Trophy season.
- His inclusion in the Hyderabad team at such a young age showcased the confidence and faith the team management had in his abilities.
- Rayudu’s debut marked the beginning of what would be a remarkable career in domestic cricket, laying the groundwork for his eventual transition to the highest level of the sport.
- As Rayudu continued to hone his skills and excel in domestic cricket, his journey from the youth teams to the senior setup served as a testament to his talent, dedication, and perseverance.
- With each opportunity, he proved himself worthy of the challenges ahead, setting the stage for a successful career in cricket.
Ambati Rayudu‘s Physical Characteristics
Celebrity fandom often extends beyond admiration for their talent or achievements to a fascination with their physical attributes.
Height, weight, and other statistics become talking points among fans, influencing trends in fashion and lifestyle.
Ambati Rayudu, the cricketer renowned for his prowess on the field, stands at a height of 5 feet 7 inches, translating to 1.70 meters or 170 centimeters. His compact stature belies the strength and agility he demonstrates in his athletic endeavors.
The Weighty Matter of Celebrity Physique
Rayudu’s weight, a subject of curiosity among fans, is recorded at 65 kilograms, equivalent to 143 pounds.
However, the dynamism of his profession means these figures are subject to change, reflecting fluctuations in training intensity, dietary habits, and overall lifestyle.
It’s no secret that celebrity physicality influences fashion trends. Rayudu’s stature, for instance, may inspire fans to emulate his style both on and off the cricket pitch.
From tailored suits to athleisure wear, his choices resonate with fashion enthusiasts seeking to capture his blend of athleticism and elegance.
Retirement & Post‑Cricket Moves
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International Retirement: Following exclusion from India’s 2019 World Cup squad, Rayudu announced retirement from all international formats on 2 July 2019.4
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Domestic Farewell: Officially ended all Indian domestic cricket careers on 29 May 2023 .
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Global League Entry: Signed with Texas Super Kings in the debut season of Major League Cricket, marking his first overseas franchise cricket stint.
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Ambati Rayudu’s Net Worth
As of January 2024, Ambati Rayudu’s net worth stands at a staggering 48 crore rupees or approximately USD 6 million. This substantial fortune is a testament to his contributions to the sport and his savvy financial decisions off the field.
Rayudu’s income streams include earnings from international cricket, IPL contracts, lucrative brand endorsements, and commercial appearances. Over the years, his net worth has witnessed a steady rise, reflecting his growing stature in the cricketing world.
A closer look at Rayudu’s annual earnings paints a picture of consistent growth and financial success. In 2018, his net worth was estimated at $3.8 million, which gradually increased to $6 million by 2023.
This upward trajectory reflects Rayudu’s ability to capitalize on opportunities both on and off the field, cementing his status as one of cricket’s most bankable stars.
Rayudu’s Personal Life: Family and Relationships
Ambati Rayudu’s personal life offers glimpses into his off-field persona, showcasing his roles as a husband and a father. Rayudu tied the knot with Chennupalli Vidya, his college friend, on the romantic occasion of Valentine’s Day, 14 February 2009.
Together, they have embarked on the journey of parenthood, raising two children and nurturing a family dynamic that balances the demands of professional sports with the joys of domestic life.
Controversies and Confrontations: A Complex Portrait
However, alongside his achievements on the cricket field, Rayudu’s career has been punctuated by incidents of controversy and confrontation.
These episodes shed light on the complexities of his temperament and the challenges he has faced in navigating the competitive world of cricket.
Ranji Trophy Scuffle: Early Signs of Tension
In 2005, during his tenure with Andhra in the Ranji Trophy, Rayudu found himself embroiled in a physical altercation with Hyderabad player Arjun Yadav.
The incident, which culminated in Yadav attacking Rayudu with a stump, underscored the intensity and emotions that often accompany high-stakes cricket matches.
IPL Fine: Tempers Flare in the Heat of the Moment
Rayudu’s confrontational tendencies resurfaced during the 2012 Indian Premier League (IPL) season, where he was fined 100% of his match fee for using obscene and abusive language directed towards opposition player Harshal Patel following a match.
This incident highlighted the challenges of maintaining composure and sportsmanship in the heat of competitive play.
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FAQ’s About Ambati Rayudu
What is Ambati Rayudu’s current age?
Born 23 September 1985, he is 39 turning 40 in September 2025.5
How many IPL titles has he won?
Six IPL titles — three with Mumbai Indians and three with Chennai Super Kings .
What is his current political affiliation?
He joined Jana Sena Party on 10 January 2024.
What is Ambati Rayudu’s career like?
Ans: Ambati Rayudu has had a successful cricket career, playing for teams like the Indian national team, Chennai Super Kings in the Indian Premier League (IPL), and various domestic teams in India.
What is Ambati Rayudu’s net worth?
Ans: Ambati Rayudu’s exact net worth is not publicly disclosed, but as a successful cricketer, he likely has a substantial net worth from his earnings from cricket contracts, endorsements, and other investments.
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