"Stop spending money on Paid PR"- Ambati Rayudu issues an official statement on MS Dhoni conflict

Ambati Rayudu has hit back at the trolling and criticism he has faced for his unwavering support for MS Dhoni in IPL 2025.

One of the most decorated cricketers of this generation, Dhoni has been facing the heat this season. At 43, the former India skipper is not getting any younger, and there are calls from several quarters to drop him from the team.

The calls have only increased in recent times as things are going downhill for the Chennai Super Kings.

Fans have questioned Dhoni's intent

Many are baffled by Dhoni's spot in the CSK playing eleven as the former captain hardly contributes with the bat. He has come to bat as low as number nine this season and usually bats when the result is a foregone conclusion.

With Dhoni hardly making any notable contributions with the bat, many believe that CSK should move on. While Dhoni is facing criticism this season, Ambati Rayudu has not shied away from throwing his support behind his former India and CSK teammate.

Rayudu has been in a constant tussle with fellow co-commentators

Throughout this season, the former cricketer-turned-commentator has hogged the spotlight because of his unwavering support of Dhoni. He has been ridiculed and trolled mercilessly on social media. Not only the fans but his fellow commentators have also started poking fun at him.

Recently, former India batsman Navjot Singh Sidhu decided to have some fun at Rayudu's expense by taking a shot at Dhoni. It all began when Rayudu accused Sidhu of changing teams. In response, Sidhu called Dhoni a 'chameleon'.

Also Read: Watch: Navjot Singh Sidhu calls MS Dhoni a 'chameleon' after Ambati Rayudu accuses him of 'changing teams'

Ambati Rayudu hits back:

Following the constant trolling, Ambati Rayudu has hit back at the trolls and critics. The former CSK batsman, on Thursday (April 10), took to X to state that his admiration for Dhoni is steadfast. He also stated that his love for Dhoni won't be affected by others' opinions.

He also took a dig at his critics, advising them against spending money on paid pr and using the resources for other noble causes.

"I was a Thala’s fan
I am a Thala’s fan
I will always be a Thala’s fan," wrote Ambati Rayudu.

"No matter what anyone thinks or does. It will not make a one percent difference.

"So please stop spending money on paid pr and donate that to charity. A lot of underprivileged people can benefit," he added.

I was a Thala’s fan
I am a Thala’s fan
I will always be a Thala’s fan.

No matter what anyone thinks or does. It will not make a one percent difference.

So please stop spending money on paid pr and donate that to charity. Lot of underprivileged people can benefit.

— ATR (@RayuduAmbati) April 10, 2025