Ambati Rayudu Picks CSK-MI All-time XI, Names Himself As Impact Player

The Indian Premier League (IPL) has been home to some of the greatest cricketers in the world, and among the most successful teams in the tournament’s history are Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and Mumbai Indians (MI). These two powerhouses have dominated the league, winning a combined 10 IPL titles and producing some of the most unforgettable moments in T20 cricket.

Few players have had the privilege of playing for both franchises, but Ambati Rayudu is among the select few who have left an indelible mark on both MI and CSK. Having played crucial roles in multiple title-winning campaigns, Rayudu understands what it takes to thrive in these two legendary teams.

Recently, Rayudu revealed his all-time XI consisting of the best players from CSK and MI, selecting a side that represents the very essence of IPL dominance. His picks sparked excitement among fans, with some selections being obvious choices and others stirring debate.

Let’s take a closer look at Rayudu’s all-time CSK-MI XI and break down why each player deserves their spot.

Ambati Rayudu’s CSK-MI All-Time XI

🔥 Openers: The MI Power Duo – Sachin Tendulkar & Rohit Sharma

No IPL all-time XI can be complete without the God of Cricket, Sachin Tendulkar. While he may not have played in the IPL as long as some others, Tendulkar’s influence on Mumbai Indians (MI) remains unparalleled. He was the heart of MI’s batting lineup in the early years, scoring 2,334 runs in 78 matches and even winning the Orange Cap in 2010.

Rohit Sharma, on the other hand, is arguably MI’s greatest-ever player. As the captain, he led the team to five IPL titles, making MI the most successful franchise in IPL history. With over 5,000 IPL runs, his ability to anchor an innings and accelerate when needed makes him a perfect opener alongside Tendulkar.

Why This Pair?

🔹 Tendulkar brings class and consistency.
🔹 Rohit adds leadership and explosive stroke play.
🔹 Together, they form a right-left combination that can dismantle any bowling attack.

Middle Order: A Blend of Experience and Firepower

#3 – Suresh Raina (CSK’s Mr. IPL)

Suresh Raina has been the backbone of CSK for more than a decade. His consistency, ability to score in crunch situations, and exceptional fielding made him one of the most valuable players in IPL history. He has scored over 5,500 IPL runs and is known for delivering match-winning knocks in high-pressure games.

Why Raina?
✔ Nicknamed “Mr. IPL” for his match-winning performances.
✔ One of CSK’s highest run-getters in IPL history.
✔ A gun fielder who has saved countless runs.

#4 – Suryakumar Yadav (MI’s Modern-Day Superstar)

Few players have redefined T20 batting like Suryakumar Yadav (SKY). His unorthodox yet effective strokeplay has turned him into one of the best middle-order batters in the world. SKY has been an integral part of MI’s recent success, playing fearless cricket and dominating bowlers across all conditions.

Why SKY?
✔ Versatile batter who can accelerate at any stage.
✔ Known for his 360-degree shot-making.
✔ Played match-winning knocks for MI in crucial encounters.

#5 – MS Dhoni (Captain & Wicketkeeper)

Was there ever a doubt? MS Dhoni is the greatest captain in IPL history. His ability to stay calm under pressure, guide the team with tactical brilliance, and finish games in style makes him an automatic choice. Under Dhoni’s leadership, CSK has won five IPL titles, and his finishing ability has won countless games.

Why Dhoni?
✔ Best captain in IPL history – tactical genius.
✔ Finishing ability – no target is too big when Dhoni is at the crease.
✔ Lightning-fast wicketkeeping skills that change matches in an instant.

All-Rounders: The Game-Changers

#6 – Kieron Pollard (MI’s Ultimate Match-Winner)

Kieron Pollard is one of the greatest T20 all-rounders of all time. His destructive batting, ability to clear boundaries at will, and handy medium-pace bowling make him a valuable asset. He has played many match-winning knocks for MI, including some unbelievable run-chases.

Why Pollard?
✔ Explosive finisher – can single-handedly change the game.
✔ Provides bowling depth – a reliable medium-pacer.
✔ Big-match player – always delivers in pressure situations.

#7 – Dwayne Bravo (CSK’s Bowling Maestro & Finisher)

Dwayne Bravo has been the heartbeat of CSK’s bowling attack for years. His ability to bowl in the death overs, slower variations, and finishing skills make him a T20 legend. Bravo is also among the highest wicket-takers in IPL history.

Why Bravo?
✔ Exceptional death bowler – specialist in slower balls.
✔ Explosive finisher – a dependable lower-order batter.
✔ Proven match-winner for CSK in multiple seasons.

#8 – Ravindra Jadeja (The Complete Package)

Arguably the best all-rounder in modern cricket, Ravindra Jadeja is a must-have in any XI. Whether with the bat, ball, or in the field, he is a complete game-changer. His left-arm spin provides crucial breakthroughs, and his explosive batting can take the game away in an instant.

Why Jadeja?
✔ Best fielder in the world.
✔ Left-arm spin provides variety to the attack.
✔ Proven match-winner with both bat and ball.

Bowlers: Lethal and Reliable

#9 – Lasith Malinga (The Yorker King)

MI’s bowling attack revolved around Lasith Malinga for over a decade. His pinpoint yorkers, match-winning spells, and ability to handle pressure made him one of the greatest IPL bowlers of all time.

Why Malinga?
✔ Best death bowler in IPL history.
✔ Four-time IPL champion with MI.
✔ Mentored Bumrah to become a world-class pacer.

#10 – Jasprit Bumrah (The Modern-Day Pace Sensation)

If MI’s dominance has a symbol in recent years, it’s Jasprit Bumrah. His deadly pace, accurate yorkers, and ability to bowl in the death overs make him an automatic choice in this XI.

Why Bumrah?
✔ Best Indian fast bowler in IPL history.
✔ Perfect partner for Malinga in the death overs.
✔ Can bowl in any phase of the game.

#11 – Harbhajan Singh (Spin Wizard for MI & CSK)

Harbhajan Singh was a key spinner for both MI and CSK. His experience, ability to bowl in powerplays, and knack for taking wickets in crucial moments make him the ideal spinner in this lineup.

Why Harbhajan?
✔ Played key roles in MI and CSK’s IPL triumphs.
✔ Economical and a wicket-taker.
✔ Brings aggression and intensity.

Rayudu’s Role: The Impact Player

In a cheeky yet confident move, Rayudu named himself as the impact player. Given his contributions to both CSK and MI in title-winning seasons, it’s only fair that he backs himself to make a difference when the team needs him the most!

Final Thoughts: A Dream Team of IPL Greats

Rayudu’s CSK-MI all-time XI is a perfect mix of experience, leadership, firepower, and match-winners. With Tendulkar and Rohit as openers, Dhoni as captain, and a lethal bowling attack, this team would be nearly unstoppable in the IPL arena.

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