Former India batsman Ambati Rayudu took a swipe at former England captain Kevin Pietersen for his on-air ‘joker’ comment during the IPL 2024 final between Kolkata Knight Riders and Sunrisers Hyderabad. Pietersen mocked Rayudu for switching allegiances, calling him a “joker.” Rayudu maintained professionalism and refrained from retaliating at the time. He revealed that he could have questioned Pietersen’s contributions to Royal Challengers Bangalore during his IPL stint from 2009 to 2010 but chose to uphold broadcast etiquette.
The incident sparked discussion on social media, with fans and analysts weighing in. Rayudu clarified that changing his jacket during broadcasting duty was not related to team preferences. Pietersen’s IPL career, spanning three franchises, was criticized for inconsistency despite moments of brilliance. Rayudu’s subtle jab at Pietersen’s RCB stint added weight to the on-air banter.
Reflecting on the incident during a podcast, Rayudu mentioned that Pietersen later apologized for his comment. Despite the banter, Rayudu maintained his professionalism, while Pietersen’s inconsistency in the IPL further fueled the debate. Both players eventually moved on from the incident, with Rayudu emphasizing the importance of maintaining respect and decorum in such situations.
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