Ambati Rayudu was about to make a comeback to India side, but he failed to pass the mandatory Yo-Yo test ahead of India's UK tour. Rayudu had a brilliant Indian Premier League 2018 that saw him score 602 runs at an average of 43.
Rayudu admitted he was disappointed at missing out a dream comeback, but he has nothing against the fitness and endurance test.
"I was disappointed with myself that I could not clear the test. Nothing against the test at all as everybody has to attain a certain fitness level playing for India. To be honest, I believe in it. I was disappointed with myself as to why I could not clear the test so I worked towards it and cleared it," he said.
Rayudu smashed 62 not out against Australia A in a quadrangular one-day series encounter at the Chinnaswamy stadium. His team, India A defeated the visitors by five wickets.
When questioned about his fitness test which didn't go right a couple of months back, he said, "I cleared it a few days back and I also got a call-up and am happy to be back in the scheme of things."
Stressing on the importance of fitness, he added, "I am happy that there is a certain kind of a benchmark. It is just that everybody has to respect it and move forward."
Hanuma Vihari has been included in the Indian squad along with Prithvi Shaw for last two Test against England.
On Vihari's inclusion, Rayudu said, "To be honest, I have not seen much of Hanuma playing. When he was playing for Hyderabad, I was representing Baroda. I am happy that the young guys are getting call-ups."
Rayudu also spoke about his 16-year long cricket career. "I don't remember as to what has happened in the last 16 years (giggles) and I am just taking it as it comes. I am a changed cricketer over the years," he said.
Rayudu is eagerly waiting to represent his country, says it's a matter of pride.
"In a country of billion people, if you are able to represent your country, you will be happy, it is always a matter of pride. And I am happy that I am now in the scheme of things and just waiting for the opportunity," he said.
