Cricket

The India-Pakistan cricket rivalry is one of the most intense and passionate in the world, with every match between the two nations carrying immense significance. One such memorable encounter occurred during the ICC T20 World Cup 2012, where former Indian all-rounder Suresh Raina silenced Pakistani supporters in a unique and unforgettable way.In a Super 8s match at the packed R Premadasa Stadium in Colombo, Pakistan struggled against India's bowling attack, with Lakshmipathy Balaji and R Ashwin taking three and two wickets respectively. Pakistan's innings lacked substantial partnerships, with only Shoaib Malik managing a top score of 28.The turning point came when Pakistan's captain, Mohammad Hafeez, was caught behind off Virat Kohli's bowling for 15. Umar Akmal provided some resistance, scoring a quick-fire 21 off 18 balls, but his dismissal by Suresh Raina off Ashwin's bowling proved to be the decisive moment.As Akmal attempted a big shot over midwicket, Raina took a fantastic catch, silencing the Pakistani fans who had been chanting "Pakistan! Pakistan!" after Akmal's six off Irfan Pathan. In a moment of triumph, Raina cupped his ear towards the crowd, implying that he couldn't hear their cheers anymore.Pakistan were eventually bowled out for a modest 128 in 19.4 overs, with India comfortably chasing down the target in just 17 overs, thanks to a brilliant unbeaten knock of 78 off 61 balls from Virat Kohli.Raina's catch and subsequent celebration became an iconic moment in the India-Pakistan rivalry, showcasing his skill as a fielder and his ability to silence the opposition's supporters. Despite India's victory, they finished third in the Super 8s and did not progress to the semifinals of the tournament.

Suresh Raina's unwavering faith in MS Dhoni's cricketing prowess and leadership abilities was evident in a recent podcast interview. When asked who he would choose as his batting partner in a hypothetical scenario where his team needed 20 runs in the final over, Raina responded without hesitation: "MS Dhoni."Raina's unwavering trust in Dhoni stems from their long-standing camaraderie as teammates in the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and the Indian national team. Despite Dhoni's recent retirement from international cricket, Raina believes that the legendary captain still has much to offer, particularly in mentoring the next generation of cricketers.Dhoni's decision to pass on the CSK captaincy to Ruturaj Gaikwad ahead of IPL 2024 signaled a transition within the team. However, Raina, who retired alongside Dhoni in 2020, believes that Dhoni should continue for one more season to guide Gaikwad and help him develop his leadership skills.Raina's faith in Dhoni's abilities is not unfounded. Despite battling a knee injury during the last IPL season, Dhoni adapted to a finisher's role, contributing crucial runs lower down the order. His 161 runs in 14 matches came at an astonishing strike rate of 220.25, proving that the "Thala" still has the ability to make a significant impact on the game.As the IPL approaches its mega players' auction for the 2025 season, Dhoni's future remains uncertain. However, Dhoni has stated that he will wait to see the auction rules, particularly concerning player retention, before making a decision. "It needs to be in the best interest of the team (CSK)," Dhoni remarked.Raina's unwavering belief in Dhoni's abilities and his desire for Dhoni to continue playing for one more season highlight the deep bond and respect between the two former teammates. Dhoni's experience, leadership, and ability to adapt to different roles make him an invaluable asset to any team, and Raina's unwavering support is a testament to the enduring legacy of one of cricket's greatest captains.

The upcoming edition of the Duleep Trophy, commencing on September 5, 2024, marks the commencement of red-ball cricket in the domestic season. This prestigious tournament will witness the participation of India's top international stars and promising young talents.The tournament will feature the likes of Rishabh Pant, Ishan Kishan, and Shubman Gill, who will be eager to showcase their skills and prepare for the upcoming Test series against Bangladesh. However, notable absentees include Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma, who will miss the domestic tournament.Former India batter Suresh Raina has expressed his belief that the star players should have participated in the Duleep Trophy to gain valuable match practice ahead of the crucial Test series. Raina emphasized the importance of playing four-day cricket to acclimatize to the conditions and prepare for the challenges of Test cricket.India will face Bangladesh in a two-match Test series starting on September 19. Raina cautioned against underestimating Bangladesh, highlighting their strong bowling attack and experienced players. He believes this series will serve as a valuable warm-up for the Border-Gavaskar Trophy against Australia.The Legends League Cricket (LLC) will also take place in India and Qatar from September 11 to October 5, featuring former international stars.

MS Dhoni's IPL Future Uncertain, Suresh Raina Advocates for Continued MentorshipThe Indian Premier League (IPL) is eagerly awaiting the return of legendary wicketkeeper-batsman MS Dhoni, but doubts linger over his participation in the upcoming season. However, Dhoni's close friend and former teammate Suresh Raina believes that the veteran should continue playing for at least one more year to guide young captain Ruturaj Gaikwad.Raina, who retired from international cricket in 2020, expressed his admiration for Dhoni's batting prowess during the last IPL season. "I want MS Dhoni to play in IPL 2025, considering how he batted last year," Raina said. "I feel Ruturaj Gaikwad needs one more year, the way he captained and a lot of things were said after the loss to RCB (Royal Challengers Bengaluru). However, Ruturaj has done a great job."Dhoni, who handed over the CSK captaincy to Gaikwad ahead of IPL 2024, has been troubled by a knee injury in recent times. Despite this, he played a crucial role as a finisher, scoring 161 runs in 14 matches at a strike rate of 220.25.The IPL will hold a mega players' auction ahead of the 2025 season, and Dhoni is expected to make a decision on his future after the auction rules on player retention are announced. "We have to see what decision they take on player retention, etc...So once the rules and regulations get formalised, I will take a call, but it needs to be in the best interest of the team (CSK)," Dhoni had said earlier.Raina's comments highlight the importance of Dhoni's experience and leadership for the CSK franchise. Gaikwad, who led the team to the IPL final in 2023, is still relatively inexperienced as a captain. Dhoni's continued presence would provide invaluable guidance and support for the young skipper.

Former Indian cricketer Suresh Raina has cautioned against underestimating Bangladesh ahead of India's upcoming series against the Asian side. Raina believes Bangladesh possesses a formidable bowling attack and that the series will serve as valuable practice for India's upcoming Border Gavaskar Trophy.Raina, speaking at a Legends League Cricket (LLC) event in Delhi, emphasized the importance of red-ball cricket in preparing for Test matches. He praised the BCCI's initiative to include top players in the Duleep Trophy, which will begin on September 5, 2024."You cannot take Bangladesh lightly as they have a fine spin bowling attack and some good players who have done well for a long time," Raina said. "This series will be a fine match practice for the tour to Australia."The Duleep Trophy will feature star Indian batters such as Rishabh Pant, Ishan Kishan, and Shubman Gill. India will then face Bangladesh in a two-match series from September 19 to October 1, with Bangladesh's spinners, including Shakib Al Hasan and Mehidy Hasan Miraz, expected to pose a significant challenge.Raina also lauded Rishabh Pant's performance in India's T20 World Cup triumph, highlighting his passion, hard work, and determination. Pant was India's third-highest run-getter in the tournament, amassing 171 runs and contributing with 14 dismissals behind the stumps.Regarding the Impact Player rule in the Indian Premier League (IPL), Raina expressed his preference for traditional cricket with 11 players. He believes the rule adds complexity to the game but prefers the simplicity of the old school approach.Legends League Cricket will be played in India and Qatar from September 11 to October 5 this year.

On August 15, 2020, former Indian cricket captain MS Dhoni announced his retirement from international cricket in a characteristically unexpected manner. A post on his Instagram account, accompanied by images from his illustrious career, simply stated, "Thanks - Thanks a lot for ur love and support throughout.from 1929 hrs consider me as Retired."Dhoni's retirement marked the end of an era for Indian cricket. Having already retired from Test cricket in 2014, he chose to step away from international cricket altogether while continuing to play for Chennai Super Kings in the Indian Premier League (IPL).Dhoni's legacy as a captain is unparalleled. He led India to victory in all three major ICC tournaments: the 2007 T20 World Cup, the 2011 ODI World Cup, and the 2013 Champions Trophy. He also held the Test mace for a period of time.Throughout his career, Dhoni played 90 Tests, 350 ODIs, and 98 T20Is, amassing 4876, 10773, and 1617 runs respectively. His tally of runs in international cricket included 16 centuries, and he made significant contributions as a wicketkeeper.Just minutes after Dhoni's announcement, his close friend and India teammate Suresh Raina followed suit, retiring from international cricket as well. Raina had been a key member of Dhoni-led teams that won the ODI World Cup and the Champions Trophy.Dhoni's retirement leaves a void in Indian cricket, but his legacy will continue to inspire future generations of players. His calm demeanor, strategic brilliance, and unwavering determination have made him one of the most respected and successful captains in the history of the game.

Suresh Raina Hails MS Dhoni as the 'GOAT' in Fun ActivityFormer Indian cricketer Suresh Raina, currently playing for the Indian Champions in the World Championship of Legends, has named MS Dhoni as the greatest of all time (GOAT) in a fun activity with presenter Shefali Bagga.During a match against the South Africa Champions on Wednesday, Raina participated in the activity where he had to associate cricketers with certain terms. Raina's answers showcased his admiration and respect for his former teammates and their contributions to the sport.When asked about the 'King' and 'run-machine', Raina immediately mentioned Virat Kohli. He labeled Shubman Gill as the 'future' and Jasprit Bumrah as a 'death-over specialist'.However, it was his response to the 'GOAT' that garnered the most attention. Raina instantly replied with 'MS Dhoni', highlighting the close friendship and mutual respect between the two cricketers. They have played together for many years, winning the 2011 ODI World Cup and the 2013 Champions Trophy.Dhoni served as the captain of Chennai Super Kings for over a decade in the Indian Premier League, with Raina as his deputy. Both players retired from international cricket on August 15, 2020, with Raina announcing his retirement just a few hours after Dhoni.Raina's answers also shed light on his camaraderie with other former teammates. He labeled Shikhar Dhawan as the 'Desi Boy', Yuvraj Singh as the 'Most Stylish', and Harbhajan Singh as the 'Funniest'.Raina's participation in this fun activity not only entertained fans but also showcased his deep understanding and appreciation of the game of cricket and the players who have shaped its history.

Former Indian Cricket Stars Shine in World Champions of Legends TournamentSeveral legendary Indian cricketers, including Suresh Raina, Yuvraj Singh, and Harbhajan Singh, are showcasing their skills in the World Champions of Legends tournament in Birmingham. However, the absence of former India captain Mahendra Singh Dhoni has raised questions among fans.Dhoni's exclusion from the India Champions team stems from regulations imposed by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI). These regulations prohibit active Indian IPL players from participating in other leagues, even though Dhoni retired from international cricket in 2020.Despite his retirement from international cricket, Dhoni remains an active player in the Indian Premier League (IPL). He recently stepped down as captain of the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) but played a crucial role in the team's success in 2024, scoring 161 runs from 14 games with an impressive strike rate of 220.The BCCI's policy explains why Dhoni cannot join his former teammates in the World Champions of Legends tournament. While fans may miss seeing Dhoni reunite with Raina, Yuvraj, and Harbhajan on the field, his performance in the IPL keeps him in the spotlight.As a finisher for CSK, Dhoni continues to captivate audiences with his ability to guide the team to victory in tense situations. His enduring influence in Indian cricket is evident in his ongoing contributions to the IPL.While Dhoni's absence in Birmingham is noticeable, his dedication to the IPL remains steadfast, highlighting his continued commitment to the game.

India vs Pakistan: Suresh Raina Backs India to Triumph in T20 World Cup ClashThe highly anticipated clash between India and Pakistan at the T20 World Cup on June 9 has ignited immense excitement among cricket enthusiasts worldwide. Former Indian batter Suresh Raina has expressed his confidence in India's chances of victory, citing the team's strong performance and the leadership of Rohit Sharma.Raina praised Sharma's ability to command respect in the dressing room and his strategic planning. He highlighted India's versatility, with two all-rounders in the squad, giving them a tactical advantage.Recalling his own playing days, Raina emphasized the significance of India-Pakistan matches. He stated that Indian players are determined to give their all and emerge victorious against their arch-rivals."When you are representing your country, you try to give your best," Raina said. "We have retired from the sport, but not from the heart. When you see the tricolour, you feel Jee Jaan lagaadenge lekin inse nahi haarenge [we will give it our all but not lose to them]."India enters the T20 World Cup after a successful IPL season, while Pakistan recently suffered a setback in a T20I series against England. However, Raina believes that India's momentum and Sharma's leadership will prove decisive.The India-Pakistan clash is not merely a sporting event but a symbol of national pride and rivalry. The match promises to be a thrilling spectacle, with both teams eager to prove their supremacy on the global stage.