NEW DELHI: Former England captain
Kevin Pietersen
took to social media to clarify that calling
Ambati Rayudu
a ‘
joker
‘ on-air was not intentional but merely playful banter during the post-match show following Kolkata Knight Riders‘ emphatic eight-wicket victory over Sunrisers Hyderabad in the
IPL 2024
final.
In a light-hearted moment, Pietersen teased Rayudu for his conspicuous change of attire after KKR’s win, which marked their third IPL title.
Rayudu, who was seen supporting SRH during the match, initially wore an orange waistcoat. However, after KKR’s triumph, he switched to a blue waistcoat, drawing the attention of the commentators.
Pietersen, known for his playful jibes, called Rayudu a “joker” on-air. Host
Mayanti Langer
noted Rayudu’s switch in attire, to which Pietersen responded, “I’ve at least held firm. I wore it and I owned it,” pointing out his purple dress.
He further jested, “You are a joker, always a joker,” while Rayudu responded with a smile, “I am supporting both the teams. I am supporting good cricket.”
What started as friendly banter quickly escalated on social media. Pietersen, seeing the reaction unfold, took to X to address the backlash.
“Come on guys! This tribalism with/against Indian players on social media needs to slow down! Example – @RayuduAmbati and I were messing around after the IPL final and all of sudden that banter has turned into an avalanche of abuse towards Ambati. PLEASE stop it?,” posted the former England captain.
Rayudu’s switch of allegiance, intended as a humorous gesture, instead became a flashpoint for negative comments, prompting Pietersen to call for a more measured and respectful approach from the cricketing community.
