Ambati Rayudu's hundred in Mumbai takes him closer to England

Ambati Rayudu made his ODI debut in 2013 against Zimbabwe

When Rohit reached his century in the 33rd over, Rayudu was batting on 34 from 40 balls with three fours and a six. In the next 41 balls, he added 66 runs which included five boundaries and three sixes. Stability and explosion combined, Hyderabad captain surged to his third ODI century and “solved all the mysteries of number four position” as exclaimed by Rohit in the post-match interview.

At the Brabourne Stadium, Rayudu received his penultimate chance of the series to cement his batting position. Striding out to bat with the team on 101/2 in just 16 overs, Rayudu played the role of an anchor to the perfection. He knew Rohit was in his elements and all Rayudu had to do was not lose his wicket.

Rayudu’s journey to the Indian team has been a tale of contrasts. At the age of 16, he was lauded as an upcoming batting great. After reaching a few highs in the under-19 and Ranji Trophy circuits, Ambati faced the gloom as runs from his bat dried up. The boiling anger added barriers to his return and soon Rayudu found himself playing in ICL (Indian Cricket League) - the tournament structured to rival BCCI.

In 2009, Rayudu was accepted back in the fold and gained his reputation in the IPL while playing for Mumbai Indians. The debut for the Indian team did happen in 2013 but the batsman was more temporary than permanent. It was IPL 2018 that reignited Rayudu’s chances of donning the Blue jersey as he piled 602 runs in the victorious season for Chennai Super Kings.

After clearing the yo-yo test, decent returns in the Asia Cup 2018 helped Rayudu to slot himself at the number four spot with Virat Kohli coming back in the team. At the age of 33, Rayudu may not be in India’s long-term plans nevertheless there will be a sense of fulfillment if he strides out to bat in the Indian uniform at the World Cup 2019.