By Swapneel Deshpande 10 Apr 2025, 13:10 IST
Former Chennai Super Kings star Ambati Rayudu has found himself in the spotlight after his recent remarks on MS Dhoni during an IPL 2025 match commentary. Amid heavy trolling for his “sword-wielding warrior” analogy, Rayudu took to social media to defend his comments and hit back at critics, urging them to “stop spending on paid PR” and instead help the underprivileged.
Ambati Rayudu, who has played a crucial role in CSK’s IPL success in the past, recently likened MS Dhoni to a warrior entering battle with a sword, while commentating alongside Navjot Singh Sidhu during the CSK vs PBKS match in Mullanpur on April 8. The metaphor, while dramatic, didn’t sit well with some fans on social media, who labeled it “over-the-top.”
“Aisa lag raha hai talwar leke aaye hain Dhoni. Bilkul chalega talwar aaj, Dhoni ka talwar chalega,” Rayudu said, as Dhoni walked in to bat late in the innings.
While Rayudu’s comment was meant as praise, Sidhu himself questioned the tone, posting on X:
“Dhoni cricket khelne aaye hain, guru? Yudh ladne nahin?”
Reacting to the online trolling, Ambati Rayudu posted a firm response on social media platform X (formerly Twitter), reiterating his support for Dhoni and shutting down allegations of flattery for publicity.
“I was a Thala’s fan. I am a Thala’s fan. I will always be a Thala’s fan,” Rayudu wrote.
“No matter what anyone thinks or does. It will not make a 1% difference. So please stop spending money on paid PR and donate that to charity. A lot of underprivileged people can benefit.”
His post went viral and sparked further debate online about fan culture, exaggerated praise in cricket commentary, and social media’s obsession with outrage.
The controversy unfolded after CSK’s defeat to Punjab Kings in Mullanpur. Dhoni walked in when Chennai needed 69 runs from just 25 balls. The former skipper tried to ignite a comeback, smashing 27 off 12 balls with three towering sixes and a four. Despite his efforts, CSK lost the match by 18 runs.
CSK will look to bounce back quickly when they face Kolkata Knight Riders at home on Friday, April 11. All eyes will once again be on MS Dhoni, whose appearances in the latter half of innings have become the subject of intense scrutiny and excitement this IPL season.
Match | CSK vs PBKS |
Venue | Mullanpur Stadium |
Result | PBKS won by 18 runs |
Dhoni’s Score | 27 (12) |
Next Match | CSK vs KKR on April 11 |
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