It is almost difficult to keep Suresh Raina out of action whenever he plays for the Chennai Super Kings (CSK). And that is what happened during CSK’s IPL 2021 tournament opener against Delhi Capitals. Even though the Chennai-based team was condemned to a seven-wicket defeat, one of the few positives that came to the fore was Raina’s form with the bat.
He made a stylish comeback for the CSK after missing out on playing for them the last season in the UAE. The way he handled the batting and motored the innings forward showed that he did not let the rust set in as he was on a long break and didn’t participate in competitive cricket.
Raina, who retired last year from international cricket, did what he does best, steady a sinking ship.
MS Dhoni, the captain of the CSK, during the post-match presentation, said that the bowlers didn’t execute the plan to the T. While the CSK lost the opening tie, the strength in the middle-order shows positive signs for the team.
After losing the openers, the CSK innings was first built by a 53-run stand between Moeen Ali and Raina and then a 63-run stand between Raina and Ambati Rayudu.
Raina, during his stay in the middle, hit a brilliant half-century. But his stay was cut short in the middle by a ill-fated run out, involving Ravindra Jadeja.
Out for 54, Raina managed to hit three boundaries and four maximums. Exhibiting a strike rate of 150, Raina looked fearless as he clobbered the bowlers all over the park.
He was oozing with confidence as he kept on dancing down the wicket and kept hammering the bowlers. Scoring runs easily, Raina kept the CSK’s scoreboard ticking.
Having lost the match, Chennai still has a lot to work on. But Raina’s performance could be the missing link that is needed to make the three-time IPL winning team to get back on the victory path.
Raina, fondly referred to as Chinna Thala, is here now. Only greater things await CSK.
