Dhoni ruled out of Tri-series, Rayudu named as replacement - This is the second time that R- Navbharat Times Photodhamal

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This is the second time that Rayudu has been named as a replacement for an injured player. He had got his first national call for the T20 series against England in December last year as a replacement for Manoj Tiwary but didn't get to make his debut.

In This Pic : Ambati Rayudu

Pic Courtesy : PTI

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He was also among the 30 probables for the World T20 tournament earlier that year but had failed to make the cut.

In This Pic : Ambati Rayudu

Pic Courtesy : BCCL

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The talented right-handed batsman has had a relatively calm IPL this year - 265 runs in 19 matches - but scored when it mattered most.

In This Pic : Ambati Rayudu

Pic Courtesy : BCCL

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"I am very excited about the prospect of donning the National colours. It has come as a surprise to me," said the 27-year-old Rayudu, who was in a theatre watching a Telugu movie.

In This Pic : Ambati Rayudu

Pic Courtesy : BCCL

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Rayudu, who for long has been touted as an India prospect, has had many ups and downs in his career and at one point of time looked as if he had missed the bus.

In This Pic : Ambati Rayudu

Pic Courtesy : BCCL