Suresh Raina, former Indian cricket player, announced his retirement from “all forms of cricket.” However, this does not mean the 45-year-old will stop playing. Raina announced his retirement from international cricket on August 15, 2020, alongside former Indian skipper M.S. Dhoni.

Suresh Raina, 35, has previously said that he wishes to participate in other overseas T20 leagues, like those in South Africa and UAE. However, an active India or domestic player is not allowed to take part in international leagues. 

Suresh Raina is likely to be seen in Cricket South Africa’s new T20 league, to be held next year, with all six teams owned by IPL franchises, including his former team Chennai Super Kings.

“I have already taken my No Objection Certificate from the Uttar Pradesh Cricket Association. I have informed BCCI secretary Jay Shah and vice-president Rajiv Shukla about my decision”, Raina previously told Dainik Jagran. 

“I will play in the Road Safety Series. T20 franchises from South Africa, Sri Lanka and UAE have contacted me but I am yet to take any decision”, Raina said earlier this year, according to Indian Express.

An official from the BCCI told Indian Express that a player would have to cut all ties with India’s cricket board before participating in overseas competitions.

The unnamed official explained using MS Dhoni’s example, saying he will have to retire if he is to act as a mentor for the Chennai Super Kings’ team in the South African T20 league.

Suresh Raina spent most of his IPL career with the Chennai Super Kings. However, he was released by the franchise ahead of the 2022 season.

Raina played 18 Tests, 226 ODIs and 78 T20s with the Indian cricket team. He was also a part of the World Cup winning squad in 2011.