Rayudu played a crucial role in CSK's success in 2018. © BCCI

Ambati Rayudu's retirement mid-way through the World Cup was a widely discussed one. Many felt that he was upset at the selectors overlooking him for the quadrennial event despite being on the standby list. Currently playing in the TNCA one-day league in Chennai, Rayudu cleared the air stating that he wasn't angry at the selectors but disappointed at not making the cut for the World Cup.

His aim at the moment is to be in top shape for the next season of IPL and play white-ball cricket. "I would definitely be playing the IPL for Chennai Super Kings and make a comeback into white ball cricket. My priority now is to get back into peak fitness," said Rayudu, who is representing Grand Slam in the league. He also ruled out featuring in overseas Twenty20 leagues. Rayudu has been a crucial member of CSK's squad for the last two seasons. His ability to bat at different positions helped CSK to experiment with batting combinations and he was often used as a floater.

The 33-year-old had announced his decision to quit all forms of the game last month. He was among the five players on the standby list, but was twice ignored by the selectors and the Indian team management as they chose to replace the injured duo of Shikhar Dhawan and Vijay Shankar with Rishabh Pant and Mayank Agarwal respectively.

"I wouldn't say it was an emotional decision because I worked very hard for the World Cup in the last four years. You are bound to be disappointed and I felt it was time (to retire). The decision that I took was not because of rejection or anything else. You work towards something and when you don't get it, you feel it's time to move on," Rayudu told reporters.

He said his love for the game is what brought him back. "I had some time to think over it and then decided might as well come and play some cricket," he said.

Asked if he still nursed ambitions of playing for India in T20s despite having retired from all forms of the game, Rayudu said, "I haven't thought that far yet. I need to take it step-by-step and see how things pan out in the coming months."

Rayudu, who looked in good touch during his innings of 47 for Grand Slam in their clash against Jolly Rovers on Thursday, said he was happy to be back in the city. "Chennai is always a place that makes you feel welcomed. TNCA league is a competitive one and will act as a good platform for me to regain my shape," said Rayudu.