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
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Four killed, one critically injured as tractor-trolley collides with bike in UP's Kaushambi
Kaushambi (UP) (PTI): Four people were killed and another man was critically injured after a tractor-trolley collided head-on with a motorcycle near a village here on Thursday, police said.
Five people were riding on a single motorcycle when the accident took place at around 9 pm near Arka village in the Karari area, they said.
The deceased were identified as Rahul (14), Akash Saroj (25), Aman (22) and Chhotu (20), while Vikas Kaithwal (18) sustained critical injuries. All the victims were residents of Dhanpara village.
The victims were taken to the district hospital, where doctors declared four of them dead. The injured person is undergoing treatment, police said.
Following the accident, the driver fled with the tractor, leaving the trolley behind, they said.
Police are now examining CCTV footage along the route taken by the motorcycle riders.
The Circle Officer of Manjhanpur has been asked to probe the functioning of police pickets and Police Response Vehicles deployed on the route, a senior police official said.
The families of the deceased have been informed, and post-mortem examinations are being conducted, he added.
