Kevin Pietersen calls Ambati Rayudu ‘Joker’ on live television; Rayudu says “They bully”
Chennai: The Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) celebrated an unprecedented high after clinching their third IPL title, overpowering the Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) in a thrilling final. The victory was a result of KKR's impeccable bowling attack, which dismantled Hyderabad's formidable openers, leading to a comprehensive win at the M.A. Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai.
During the post-match broadcasting presentation, former cricketers Kevin Pietersen and Matthew Hayden, alongside Ambati Rayudu, participated in the commentary and analysis segment. The exchange took a controversial twist when Pietersen and Hayden jested at Rayudu’s expense.
Presenter Mayanti Langer highlighted a notable wardrobe change by Rayudu, pointing out that he had donned an orange jacket before the match, symbolizing SRH, but switched to a purple one post-match, aligning with KKR’s victory colors. This playful observation led to Pietersen and Hayden calling Rayudu a "joker" on live television, which Rayudu found demeaning.
Rayudu, visibly uncomfortable with the remarks, later expressed his displeasure, stating, "They bully. Indians are not suited to work with Australians and English." His reaction has sparked discussions about the nature of camaraderie among former cricketers during broadcasts.
This incident added to Rayudu's recent history of outspoken comments, particularly against the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB). Following RCB’s elimination from the playoffs by the Rajasthan Royals in the 2024 IPL season, Rayudu, a staunch supporter of Chennai Super Kings (CSK), voiced his satisfaction at RCB’s defeat. His remarks were seen as a continuation of his lingering resentment after CSK was ousted from the playoffs by RCB.
Rayudu, who retired from the IPL as a champion with CSK in 2023, has maintained a strong allegiance to his former franchise. His pointed comments against RCB reflect the intense rivalries that define the IPL, though they have also stirred controversy among fans and analysts.
No way Kevin Pietersen called Ambati Rayudu a Joker on live TV.#IPLFinal pic.twitter.com/LYigudOhig
— RCBIANS OFFICIAL (@RcbianOfficial) May 27, 2024
Let the Truth be known. If you read VB and like VB, please be a VB Supporter and Help us deliver the Truth to one and all.
Protesters clash with police during torch rally in Manipur
Imphal (PTI): People protesting the death of two children in a recent bomb blast in Manipur clashed with security forces during a torch rally in the state capital Imphal, police said.
Two children died in a bomb blast at Tronglaobi in Bishnupur on April 7. The Imphal Valley districts have been witnessing daily protests over the incident.
A seven-km-long torch rally was brought out from Mayai Lambi to Keishamthong in Imphal West district on Monday night, but the participants turned violent and clashed with the security forces, a police officer said.
Security forces fired several rounds of tear gas shells in Keishamthong area after hundreds of protesters defying curfew demanded they be allowed to proceed for another 200 metres towards Keisampat area, which is close to the Lok Bhavan and the BJP state office, he said.
ALSO READ: 5.2-magnitude quake jolts Manipur
Orders prohibiting the movement of any individuals outside their respective homes are in force in all the five valley districts from 5 pm to 5 am.
"Protesters pelted the security forces with stones and iron pellets from catapults, endangering the lives of the heavily outnumbered security forces," the officer said.
Manipur Police have, meanwhile, arrested 19 people for violating curfew and committing offences, including blocking roads and damaging public property, in the Greater Imphal area. They were nabbed from different parts of Imphal West district on Sunday, a police statement said.
In the Ukhrul district headquarters, a candlelight vigil was held on Monday night to honour the two Tangkhul Naga civilians who were killed in an ambush in TM Kasom area in the district on April 18.
Various civil society organisations from both the valley and hill areas strongly condemned the brutal killings, alleging that the victims were shot by Kuki militants using sniper rifles.
