Vijayawada/IBNS: Former Indian cricketer Ambati Rayudu on Thursday joined Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Jagan Mohan Reddy's YSRCP, just a few months ahead of the next Lok Sabha elections.

Rayudu joined the ruling party in presence of Reddy, Deputy Chief Minister Narayan Swamy and YSRCP MP Peddireddy Mithun Reddy.

The party said in a X post, "Renowned cricketer @RayuduAmbati has officially joined YSRCP in the presence of Hon’ble CM @ysjagan. Welcome to the team, Ambati Rayudu!"

Rayudu, 38, announced his retirement from Indian Premier League (IPL) on May 28, 2023.

A day later, the right-handed batter announced his retirement from all forms of cricket.

Rayudu, who began his first-class career playing for Hyderabad in 2002, appeared for Team India in 55 One Day Internationals and 6 T20Is.