MSK Prasad clarifies on Rayudu's non-selection

MSK Prasad, the former India selector broke his silence on Ambati Rayudu's allegations stating that he was left out of the India squad for the 2019 World Cup because of Prasad's dislike for him.

"There is no way personal bias can come in the way of selection of the national team. One selector's perceived or alleged bias cannot influence the selection outcome because there would be five others in a selection meeting. Every selection or non-selection is a collective decision," Prasad told to Cricbuzz.

Ambati Rayudu also said that he had been a victim of Prasad's personal dislike during his Andhra days as well, when Prasad captained the state side. 

"The team needed a No. 4 batsman. By dispensing with that requirement and going for an all-rounder instead, they missed the main point. If they had taken a batsman like Rahane (Ajinkya) or some other experienced batsman, it would be understandable. The No 4 batsman is needed to both block one end and score runs depending on the situation."

"I am not saying I suffered because of him but I did not like his (Prasad's) style. Because of that I had to come back to Hyderabad," Rayudu had said on record to a Telugu channel. 

While Prasad declined to divulge the exact specifics of what happened in the 2019 meeting. He maintained his stance that there were no ill-intentions in Vijay Shankar's selection of Rayudu. The then selection meeting also included Devang Gandhi, Gagan Khoda, Jatin Paranjpe and Sarandeep Singh.

Rayudu (37) donned the Indian jersey in 55 ODIs and 6 T20Is. He recently announced his retirement from all forms of cricket, including IPL. However, he will next be seen in action at the Major League Cricket (MLC), representing Texas Super Kings, the sister franchise of Chennai Super Kings.