Virat Kohli Was Behind Ambati Rayudu’s Exclusion From 2019 WC Squad, Alleges Robin Uthappa

The former Indian cricketer Robin Uthappa, a key member of the MS Dhoni-led team that won the inaugural ICC Men’s T20 World Cup in 2007, has attributed Ambati Rayudu’s exclusion from India’s 2019 ODI World Cup squad to then-captain Virat Kohli.

Ambati Rayudu had been a regular part of the team’s preparations leading up to the tournament, playing 10 matches in the build-up. Despite his consistent presence, he was not included in the squad and was also overlooked as a replacement when Shikhar Dhawan was ruled out due to injury after India’s second match against Australia.

Robin Uthappa suggested that Virat Kohli had significant influence in team selections during his captaincy, implying that the players he did not favor were often sidelined. He mentioned that Rayudu, who was India’s designated No. 4 batter at the time, had prepared fully for the World Cup with his kit and gear ready, only to be excluded at the last moment, which he felt was unfair treatment.

Following his omission, Ambati Rayudu made headlines with a cryptic social media post referencing a “3D” comment, indirectly blaming then-chief selector MSK Prasad. Prasad, however, later clarified that selection decisions were made collectively by the committee and the captain also played a role in the final calls.

Ambati Rayudu, known for his success in the IPL with six titles, is among the most decorated players in the league’s history. He represented India in 55 ODIs, scoring 1694 runs, and appeared in six T20Is, contributing 42 runs. Although he was part of India’s squad during the 2015 ODI World Cup, he did not get an opportunity to play. His international career included a significant contribution to India’s victory in the 2018 Asia Cup held in the UAE.

Well, if this is the case, then it is really sad!

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