WATCH: Suresh Raina refuses considering options as he picks MS Dhoni to score 20 runs in final over

Dhoni is widely regarded as one of the greatest finishers of all-time.

By Salman Anjum - 04 Sep, 2024

In a recent podcast, former India batter Suresh Raina gave a rather straightforward answer to a hypothetical question: "Your team needs 20 runs in the final over, who would you choose as your batting partner?"

In reply, Raina said, "MS Dhoni." When the hosts offered him options, the southpaw shut down the suggestion with an epic response: "I don’t want options!"

Dhoni is widely regarded as one of the greatest finishers of all-time, especially in ODI cricket. He made 10773 runs in 350 ODIs with 10 centuries and 73 fifties to his name and averaged 50.57 with a best of 183*.

One of Dhoni’s best finishing knocks was his 91* in the 2011 World Cup final and there are numerous instances of him digging India out of precarious positions in the 50-over matches.

While MS Dhoni retired from international cricket in 2020, he continues to feature in the Indian Premier League (IPL).

On the eve of the IPL 2024 opener, Dhoni stepped down as CSK captain, handing over the leadership baton to Ruturaj Gaikwad. Despite struggling with knee injury, his performance this season was remarkable as he amassed 161 runs at an average of 53.66 and a staggering strike rate of 220.54 across 11 innings.

While many experts believe that it was Dhoni’s last IPL season, the 43-year-old has kept his cards close to chest.

However, Raina believes the CSK icon should continue for one more season, considering his batting display in the IPL 2024 season.

“I want MS Dhoni to play in IPL 2025, considering how he batted last year. I feel Ruturaj Gaikwad needs one more year, the way he captained and a lot of things were said after the loss to RCB. However, Ruturaj has done a great job,” Raina told Sports Tak last month.

By Salman Anjum - 04 Sep, 2024

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