Veteran Indian cricketer Ambati Rayudu addressed the wave of hate messages he has been receiving on social media over the past few weeks, which stemmed from his remarks about former Chennai Super Kings teammate MS Dhoni. Rayudu has faced significant backlash across various platforms but has finally responded to his detractors.

Although he began his IPL journey with the Mumbai Indians, where he played for eight seasons, Rayudu has remained a dedicated supporter of the Chennai Super Kings, contributing six seasons to the team before retiring after winning the IPL 2023 title. Throughout the current IPL season, he has consistently expressed his loyalty to both Chennai and their former captain Dhoni, even as the team has encountered challenges. However, his statements were met with disapproval from social media users, leading to a barrage of trolling and negative messages directed at him.

In a post on X, previously known as Twitter, Rayudu confronted his critics, proudly identifying himself as a 'Thala' fan and asserting that their hateful comments would not alter his views.

"I was a Thala’s fan. I am a Thala’s fan. I will always be a Thala’s fan. No matter what anyone thinks or does. It will not make a one percent difference. So please stop spending money on paid PR and donate that to charity. A lot of underprivileged people can benefit."

Rayudu shown no mercy even in commentary box

Following Chennai's defeat to Punjab Kings on Tuesday in Chandigarh, marking their fourth consecutive loss of the season, a video featuring Rayudu and Navjot Singh Sidhu in the commentary booth gained significant traction on social media.

As Dhoni stepped onto the field after Shivam Dube's dismissal on the second-to-last ball of the 16th over, the audience erupted in enthusiastic chants. Sidhu remarked on air, “He is making his way down the stairs; his intent is clearly evident in his stride,” upon Dhoni's entrance.

Rayudu, who was also part of the commentary team, quipped, "MS Dhoni is emerging with a sword, not just a bat. The sword will be brandished tonight, and Dhoni's sword will indeed be brandished."

The seasoned Indian cricketer took a playful jab at the former CSK player regarding his dramatic description of Dhoni, stating, "You make it sound as if he is not coming to play cricket but to engage in battle." Nevertheless, Rayudu continued to express admiration for the 43-year-old.

"You can observe his demeanor. In the previous match, he entered with a calm presence, but tonight, even during the warm-up, he removed the black strap he typically wears on his knee. This evening, we will witness a fearless Dhoni," he remarked.

Sidhu later shared the clip on his social media, once again teasing Rayudu with the comment, “Is Dhoni here to play cricket, Guru? Or to fight a war? …. #IPL.”

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