Rayudu looks forward to playing under Dhoni

“I’m excited to be playing for such a champion side as CSK. I’m not looking at any particular slot in the batting order. I have an open mind about batting wherever my team wants me to,” said Rayudu who played for India in 34 ODIs and six T20s. 

Rayudu said he is not worried about making a comeback into the Indian team and that his sole focus is on repaying the faith reposed in him by the CSK team management. “Heading into the IPL, I would like to be at my best in terms of my performance. I’m not targeting any national comeback. I enjoyed a good domestic season at Hyderabad. My role in the CSK would be to do whatever the team asks of me,” added the 32-year-old. 

Asked if he is confident of handling pressure, the middle-order batsman replied that playing for another big franchise like Mumbai Indians makes his task easier. “I’m used to handling pressure at Mumbai Indians and so I don’t think I will be under any extra pressure. Both are champion teams. Each one of us knows what pressure is and we are equipped to handle that,” remarked Rayudu.

Rayudu threw his support behind his former Mumbai Indians and current CSK team-mate Harbhajan Singh. “I think Harbhajan is still a match-winner. Even in last year’s IPL, the way he bowled was amazing. He doesn’t have to fill anybody’s shoes. He has shoes of his own. He doesn’t need to be compared with anyone. On his day he can win a match on his own,” asserted Rayudu. 

Part of the reason why he Is excited to play at CSK is because of the opportunity he would get to play under MS Dhoni’s captaincy. “Dhoni has been successful as a captain of every team he has led. He has won two World Cups for India. He has the knack of lifting his team and the dressing room in tough situations. He is a born leader and leadership comes naturally to him,” gushed the former India U-19 captain.