Suresh Raina is the highest run-getter in the history of the IPL with as many as 4985 runs to his name. The southpaw has played an instrumental role in Chennai Super Kings’ three titles across nine seasons.
Raina has never shied away from taking responsibilities and has always taken his game to a different level when it comes to pressure situations. Among the cricket fans, he is famously known for his match-winning prowess in India’s most cherished ICC triumph – World Cup 2011. The left-hander had played significant knocks in the quarter and semi-finals against Australia and Pakistan.
While a return in the Blue jersey looks difficult for Raina, he will continue to don the yellow jersey for CSK in the 12th edition of Indian Premier League.
In an exclusive interview with timesnownews.com, Suresh Raina recently opened up about his preparation for the IPL 2019, saying: “Going good, looking forward to the games. I have been focusing on my fitness and also spending quite some time at the nets for practice sessions.”
After a two-year hiatus, CSK returned to the cash-rich league last year and clinched the title for the third time.
Talking about the secret of their success, Raina said: “I think CSK has a strong ability to work as a team. We can hold on to long and solid partnerships. Also, we have cricketers with varied talents and that has worked in our favour; we've been able to adapt to each other's cricketing styles pretty well. Having said that, MS Dhoni, has, of course, played an integral part in CSK’s journey to success, with his strategies & ability to stay calm under pressure.”
Raina had a good T20I series against South Africa last year and followed it with a decent outing in the Nidahas Trophy and the UK tour. However, he was snubbed from the subsequent series against West Indies, Australia and New Zealand.
When asked if the omission was a bit unfair on him, the 32-year-old said: “Definitely. I was surely not expecting to be dropped because I got limited matches to play and during those matches, I did fairly well. But you know, you can’t really blame anyone for these things. I work hard, focus on my form & fitness every day. I am continuing to do my job.”
Raina might have a little hope of making it to the mega event in England, but he is keen to lift the cricket's biggest trophy for the second time.
“I have always given my best to the team I play for, be it national, domestic or IPL. And, I’ll continue to do so during any upcoming matches too, irrespective of the circumstance. But yes, who wouldn’t want to lift the World Cup twice (laughs),” he said.
