Ambati Rayudu hits back at Kevin Pietersen’s ‘joker’ remark with RCB dig

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Former India batter Ambati Rayudu has reignited a storm of debate after firing back at Kevin Pietersen’s infamous “joker” jibe with a pointed reminder of the Englishman’s underwhelming stint at Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB).

The controversy dates back to the IPL 2024 final, when Pietersen playfully mocked Rayudu on live television for switching allegiance between Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) and Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) during the post-match show. “You’re a joker, always a joker,” Pietersen quipped, prompting Rayudu to reply calmly at the time, “I am supporting both teams. I am supporting good cricket.” The exchange went viral, sparking a social media frenzy.

Days later, in a podcast appearance on Shubhankar Mishra official, Rayudu gave his side of the story. He clarified that experts on the show hadn’t been asked to pick sides and that his change of attire was simply due to the heat in Chennai. Then came the punchline:

“We could also tell him things because he played for RCB and did not do anything. I was maintaining professional decorum. He apologized later for saying that on air. We were just having banter, but people took it in some way. But it affected him more and not me.”

The subtle yet sharp dig highlighted Pietersen’s forgettable IPL run with RCB, where he managed only 329 runs across two seasons without winning a title. In contrast, Rayudu boasts six IPL trophies with Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and Mumbai Indians (MI).

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Rayudu’s comments have reopened long-running debates about the IPL’s biggest stars, contrasting Pietersen’s individual brilliance with Rayudu’s legacy of team triumphs. The remark also reignited chatter around RCB’s historical struggles in the tournament, despite their superstar line-ups and loyal fanbase.

Social media lit up instantly. CSK and MI fans applauded Rayudu for standing his ground, while RCB supporters defended their team, noting its long-awaited maiden title in 2025.

Although Pietersen later clarified on social media that his remark was made in jest and even apologized to Rayudu, the banter has left a lasting imprint. Rayudu’s sharp comeback ensured the moment remained a major talking point in cricket circles, a reminder of how rivalries, egos and unforgettable one-liners fuel the IPL’s theatre.

What began as light-hearted banter has turned into yet another classic IPL subplot—where legacies, loyalty and laughter collide on cricket’s biggest stage.

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