This win is for Sachin Tendulkar: Rayudu MI batter credits four years of hard work for title win

Ambati Rayudu has been an understated, yet integral part of the Mumbai Indians line-up over the last few years. The 27-year-old batter has time and again steadied the MI innings and whenever need be, even unleashed big hits to steer his side to a favourable position.

For him to finally get his hands around the IPL Trophy meant a culmination of four seasons of tireless efforts. “This is extraordinary! Four years of hard work. We have come so close before and were really very hungry for it. This is beyond words,” Rayudu told IPLT20.com.

He also pointed out that MI gained a lot of confidence from their first perfect home season. “I think the unbeaten run at home set the tone for the Playoffs,” said Rayudu as he spoke about what boosted the team in the highly-competitive league.

The MI batsman was also thrilled about winning the biggest prize in franchise cricket at one of the sport’s most historic venues. “It is unbelievable how a packed Eden Gardens witnessed us. It is a dream. There is nothing better than this,” he said.

And finally, Rayudu dedicated MI’s maiden IPL title to Sachin Tendulkar, the team’s most iconic player, who has been a pillar for the franchise since the inception of the IPL. “I think he is the one who is the backbone of the team,” Rayudu said.