The Hindu : Sport / Cricket : Will Rayudu's fortunes change?

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Tuesday, May 31, 2005

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Sport - Cricket

Will Rayudu's fortunes change?

V.V. Subrahmanyam

Chappell for grooming talents like Rayudu

HYDERABAD: Greg Chappell's observation that potential stars like A.T. Rayudu should be groomed with an eye on future could not have come at a more appropriate time for the explosive batsman from Hyderabad, who is passing through difficult times.

It all started after the poor show in six Ranji matches this season. Critics were up in arms as he failed to live up to the expectations. And finally Rayudu has decided to shift his loyalty to Andhra Cricket Association for the next season.

Everybody agrees that Rayudu possesses tremendous talent. And it is a pity that a player with such talent is at the cross-roads.

There were instances when class and talent were wasted by a combination of factors like clash of egos, pressure due to high expectations etc. This is where Greg Chappell can play a decisive role. Those who had seen Rayudu loft fast bowlers over mid-off or treat spin bowlers with contempt during his formative years thought that the youngster had a great future.

But things have not gone well. Rayudu was the captain of the Indian under-19 team, which won the Asia Cup beating Pakistan in the final. Irfan Pathan was also a member of the winning side. While Pathan reached the top, Rayudu is now struggling to find his touch.

Will Greg Chappell spend enough time with Rayudu, is the big question lingering in the minds of cricket aficionados.

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