Ex-Cricketer Ambati Rayudu Joins Jagan Mohan Reddy's Party

Former Indian cricketer Ambati Rayudu embarked on a new journey on Thursday as he officially joined the Yuvajana Sramika Rythu Congress Party (YSRCP) led by Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddy. The significant political move was marked by an event in Vijayawada, attended by prominent dignitaries, signaling Rayudu’s foray into active politics.

The Transition from Cricket to Politics

Ambati Rayudu, known for his contributions to Indian cricket and his role in the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in the Indian Premier League (IPL), recently announced his retirement after CSK’s victory in 2023. Following his cricket career, Rayudu expressed his intention to enter politics and embarked on a tour of his home state, Andhra Pradesh, to familiarize himself with the issues facing the people.

YSRCP Welcomes Rayudu

The official induction into the YSR Congress Party took place at the Chief Minister’s camp office, where Ambati Rayudu joined in the presence of Chief Minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddy. Other key figures, including Deputy CM Narayana Swamy and YSRCP MP Peddireddy Mithun Reddy, graced the occasion. The YSRCP highlighted the event on its official platform, acknowledging the entry of the renowned cricketer into the political arena.

Political Plans Unveiled

Rayudu, in a prior statement to local reporters, outlined his plan to serve the people of Andhra Pradesh through politics. He emphasized his intention to understand the pulse of the people and their issues by touring different parts of the district. The former cricketer pledged to formulate a concrete action plan for his political journey and determine the platform through which he would contribute to public service.

Lok Sabha Elections 2024

Rayudu’s decision to join politics comes ahead of the impending Lok Sabha elections in 2024. Earlier, there were speculations about him considering contesting the general elections from either the Guntur or Machilipatnam parliamentary constituency. Although Rayudu initially denied such claims, his alignment with the YSRCP just before the elections suggests a strategic move and an indication of his political ambitions.

Potential Impact on Elections

For the YSR Congress Party, Ambati Rayudu’s entry holds the potential to attract young voters, given his representation of Andhra Pradesh and India on the international cricket stage. Additionally, his association with the popular CSK franchise in the IPL, which boasts a strong fan base across the country, including Andhra Pradesh, could play a pivotal role in garnering support. With the 175-member Andhra Pradesh Assembly elections also approaching, Rayudu’s presence could contribute significantly to the party’s electoral strategy.