<p>Mumbai Indians skipper Rohit Sharma has not been in the best of forms in this years Indian Premier League. Mumbai has played five matches so far in which Sharma scored two half-centuries. However, Rohit nears a new record and if he scores another half-century this season the history will be re-written.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Rohit Sharma currently is tied at the top with Chennai Super Kings’ Suresh Raina in the list of Indian players with most fifties in IPL. Both the batsmen have smashed 38-fifties in IPL. As Suresh Raina pulled out of this year's Indian Premier League citing personal reasons which give Rohit Sharma a chance to take over the Chennai player.</p>

<p>The Mumbai Indians take on Rajasthan Royals tonight and could be a perfect chance for Rohit Sharma make history.&nbsp;</p>

<p>If he smashes a half-century tonight, he will remain at the second position in the overall list of batsmen with most fifties. He stands behind SRH skipper David Warner, who has 45 fifties in IPL.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Sharma will surpass Raina in one more record tonight. MI skipper will become the second player in the list of players with most matches played in the IPL. While Raina has played 193 games in IPL, the right-handed batsman will be playing his 194th. Overall, he would be 2nd player in the list, only behind CSK captain MS Dhoni, who has played 195 matches.</p>


Mumbai Indians skipper Rohit Sharma has not been in the best of forms in this years Indian Premier League. Mumbai has played five matches so far in which Sharma scored two half-centuries.

Mumbai Indians skipper Rohit Sharma has not been in the best of forms in this years Indian Premier League. Mumbai has played five matches so far in which Sharma scored two half-centuries. However, Rohit nears a new record and if he scores another half-century this season the history will be re-written. Rohit Sharma currently is tied at the top with Chennai Super Kings’ Suresh Raina in the list of Indian players with most fifties in IPL. Both the batsmen have smashed 38-fifties in IPL. As Suresh Raina pulled out of this year's Indian Premier League citing personal reasons which give Rohit Sharma a chance to take over the Chennai player. The Mumbai Indians take on Rajasthan Royals tonight and could be a perfect chance for Rohit Sharma make history. If he smashes a half-century tonight, he will remain at the second position in the overall list of batsmen with most fifties. He stands behind SRH skipper David Warner, who has 45 fifties in IPL. Sharma will surpass Raina in one more record tonight. MI skipper will become the second player in the list of players with most matches played in the IPL. While Raina has played 193 games in IPL, the right-handed batsman will be playing his 194th. Overall, he would be 2nd player in the list, only behind CSK captain MS Dhoni, who has played 195 matches.

IPL 2020: Rohit Sharma nears many incredible records as he faces Rajasthan Royals

<p>Chennai Super Kings (CSK) have had a torrid start to their <a href="https://www.wionews.com/ipl">Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020</a>&nbsp;losing two out of their three matches in the campaign. While plenty of questions have been raised on the form of top-order batsmen, fans have called for the return of Suresh Raina, who opted out of IPL 2020 due to ‘personal reasons’.&nbsp;</p>

<p>CSK CEO Kasi Viswanathan has ruled out the possibility of Raina’s return in the CSK camp for IPL 2020 as he said they need to respect his decision of pulling out of IPL 2020 and the CSK management is not thinking about it.</p>

<p>"See, we cannot look at Raina because he made himself unavailable and we respect his decision and his space. We are not thinking about it,” CSK CEO Kasi Viswanathan told ANI.</p>

<p>CSK started strong with a win against Mumbai Indians in the opener but have since lost two matches on the bounce – against RCB and DC – which have raised major concerns surrounding the form and rhythm of the players.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/we-are-lacking-a-bit-of-steam-ms-dhoni-unhappy-with-form-of-csk-openers-in-ipl-2020-330393" hreflang="en">We are lacking a bit of steam: MS Dhoni unhappy with form of CSK openers in IPL 2020</a></strong></p>

<p>However, the CSK CEO is confident that despite worries from CSK fans, the players and the franchise will bring back the smiles to the faces of the supporters.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We have been blessed with some of the best fans in the cricketing world and I can assure them that we will bounce back strongly. It is a game and you have your good days and bad days. But the boys know what they need to do and the smiles will be back," he asserted.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/sunil-gavaskar-issues-clarification-after-commentary-controversy-involving-kohli-anushka-330397" hreflang="en">Sunil Gavaskar issues clarification after commentary controversy involving Kohli-Anushka</a></strong></p>

<p>The loss of Ambati Rayudu due to hamstring injury came as a massive blow to CSK, who lost both their matches in the absence of the right-handed batsmen. The CSK boss has confirmed that Rayudu will be back in their next game against Sunrisers Hyderabad.</p>

<p>"Like I told you last day (before the Delhi Capitals game), he would miss one game at worst. He is fit and ready for the next game," he said.</p>

<p><br />
The Super Kings will be next face SunRisers Hyderabad on October 2 in Dubai.<br />
&nbsp;</p>


Chennai Super Kings (CSK) have had a torrid start to their Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 losing two out of their three matches in the campaign. While plenty of questions have been raised on the form of top-order batsmen, fans have called for the return of Suresh Raina, who opted out of IPL 2020 due to ‘personal reasons’.

Chennai Super Kings (CSK) have had a torrid start to their Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 losing two out of their three matches in the campaign. While plenty of questions have been raised on the form of top-order batsmen, fans have called for the return of Suresh Raina, who opted out of IPL 2020 due to ‘personal reasons’. CSK CEO Kasi Viswanathan has ruled out the possibility of Raina’s return in the CSK camp for IPL 2020 as he said they need to respect his decision of pulling out of IPL 2020 and the CSK management is not thinking about it. "See, we cannot look at Raina because he made himself unavailable and we respect his decision and his space. We are not thinking about it,” CSK CEO Kasi Viswanathan told ANI. CSK started strong with a win against Mumbai Indians in the opener but have since lost two matches on the bounce – against RCB and DC – which have raised major concerns surrounding the form and rhythm of the players. ALSO READ: We are lacking a bit of steam: MS Dhoni unhappy with form of CSK openers in IPL 2020 However, the CSK CEO is confident that despite worries from CSK fans, the players and the franchise will bring back the smiles to the faces of the supporters. "We have been blessed with some of the best fans in the cricketing world and I can assure them that we will bounce back strongly. It is a game and you have your good days and bad days. But the boys know what they need to do and the smiles will be back," he asserted. ALSO READ: Sunil Gavaskar issues clarification after commentary controversy involving Kohli-Anushka The loss of Ambati Rayudu due to hamstring injury came as a massive blow to CSK, who lost both their matches in the absence of the right-handed batsmen. The CSK boss has confirmed that Rayudu will be back in their next game against Sunrisers Hyderabad. "Like I told you last day (before the Delhi Capitals game), he would miss one game at worst. He is fit and ready for the next game," he said. The Super Kings will be next face SunRisers Hyderabad on October 2 in Dubai.

Will CSK fans see Suresh Raina in IPL 2020? CSK CEO gives an update

<p>India's legendary playback singer SP Balasubrahmanyam passed away at the age of 74 on Friday in a hospital in Chennai after battling coronavirus for more than a month.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/singer-sp-balasubrahmanyam-dies-of-coronavirus-complications-330156" hreflang="en">Singer SP Balasubrahmanyam dies of coronavirus complications</a></p>

<p>Icons from the sporting fraternity paid their tributes to the iconic singer.&nbsp;</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">One of my favourite artist breathed his last today and that's the best way to describe you SPB sir,(an ARTIST) . You were one of the best and most versatile singers in the history of Indian cinema. That's the world will always remember you.</p>
— DK (@DineshKarthik) <a href="https://twitter.com/DineshKarthik/status/1309406523454521346?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 25, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Omg!! This year just gets worse by the day! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SPBalasubramaniam?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SPBalasubramaniam</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RIP?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RIP</a></p>
— Ashwin 🇮🇳 (@ashwinravi99) <a href="https://twitter.com/ashwinravi99/status/1309408972353482753?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 25, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Saddened to hear the demise of such a legendary singer <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SPBalasubramanyam?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SPBalasubramanyam</a>. Your voice will be an inspiration for the generations to come. Condolences to friends &amp; family. Om Shanti🙏 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RIPSPBalasubramanyam?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RIPSPBalasubramanyam</a> <a href="https://t.co/weNqCthlZe">pic.twitter.com/weNqCthlZe</a></p>
— Suresh Raina🇮🇳 (@ImRaina) <a href="https://twitter.com/ImRaina/status/1309421759888789506?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 25, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Shattered to hear about passing of SPB sir. A Legend of Indian Cinema. His songs will reverberate forever. His friendship, love for the game and our chennai meetings will be cherished forever. My heartfelt condolences to Sudakar, Sailaja, Charan and rest of family and fans. 🙏🏽</p>
— Anil Kumble (@anilkumble1074) <a href="https://twitter.com/anilkumble1074/status/1309406057886887936?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 25, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Extremely saddened to hear about the demise of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SPBalasubramanyam?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SPBalasubramanyam</a> garu. My deepest Condolences to his family. His voice will always remain etched in our hearts. Om Shanti ! <a href="https://t.co/BrqUirT8Kh">pic.twitter.com/BrqUirT8Kh</a></p>
— VVS Laxman (@VVSLaxman281) <a href="https://twitter.com/VVSLaxman281/status/1309403225376747522?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 25, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Really sad to hear about the passing away of such a great yet simple person. He was my first sponsor! He sponsored our team Chennai Colts in the national team championship in 1983. One of the nicest persons I have met. His music gave us such joy <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RIPSPB?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RIPSPB</a></p>
— Viswanathan Anand (@vishy64theking) <a href="https://twitter.com/vishy64theking/status/1309404296018931712?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 25, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Sad to hear the Demise of the legendary singer - SPB, his songs will echo through time, condolences to his family and close friends 🙏! Om Shanti</p>
— Kris Srikkanth (@KrisSrikkanth) <a href="https://twitter.com/KrisSrikkanth/status/1309401519075155968?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 25, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Will cherish the times you unleashed the song Sankara on demand and effortlessly built up the pitch. The song from Sankarabharanam was tough to render but you made it all seem easy. Never again will I have that experience. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RIP?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RIP</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SPBalasubrahmanyam?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SPBalasubrahmanyam</a> Sir. <a href="https://t.co/ATbDL06Yaa">https://t.co/ATbDL06Yaa</a></p>
— W V Raman (@wvraman) <a href="https://twitter.com/wvraman/status/1309418850727804928?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 25, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>Indian Premier League team Chennai Super Kings also paid their tribute to the legendary singer.</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="et">Mannin meedhu manidhanukkaasai<br />
Manidhan meedhu mannukkaasai<br />
Mann dhaan kadaisiyil jeikiradhu<br />
Idhai manam dhaan unara marukkiradhu...<br />
<br />
Your songs will live on forever. Rest in peace Legend! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RIPSPB?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RIPSPB</a> <a href="https://t.co/8r9dnfGfBT">pic.twitter.com/8r9dnfGfBT</a></p>
— Chennai Super Kings (@ChennaiIPL) <a href="https://twitter.com/ChennaiIPL/status/1309402245553766400?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 25, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>In an illustrious career spanning over five decades, SPB had sung more than 40,000 songs. He was undergoing treatment in MGM Healthcare since August 5 when he had first tested positive for coronavirus.</p>

<p>He had been in critical condition the past few weeks, and the last medical update from the hospital had stated that the singer was on life support for the past few days.</p>

<p>The veteran singer had also dabbled in acting and been a part of several blockbuster films.</p>

<p>Awarded with Padma Bhushan SPB delivered blockbuster songs in Tamil, Hindi, Telugu and Malayalam. He was also a well-known classical singer and composed music for more than 45 films in Tamil, Telugu and Malayalam.</p>


India's legendary playback singer SP Balasubrahmanyam passed away at the age of 74 on Friday in a hospital in Chennai after battling coronavirus for more than a month.

India's legendary playback singer SP Balasubrahmanyam passed away at the age of 74 on Friday in a hospital in Chennai after battling coronavirus for more than a month. Also read: Singer SP Balasubrahmanyam dies of coronavirus complications Icons from the sporting fraternity paid their tributes to the iconic singer. One of my favourite artist breathed his last today and that's the best way to describe you SPB sir,(an ARTIST) . You were one of the best and most versatile singers in the history of Indian cinema. That's the world will always remember you. — DK (@DineshKarthik) September 25, 2020 × Omg!! This year just gets worse by the day! #SPBalasubramaniam #RIP — Ashwin 🇮🇳 (@ashwinravi99) September 25, 2020 × Saddened to hear the demise of such a legendary singer #SPBalasubramanyam. Your voice will be an inspiration for the generations to come. Condolences to friends & family. Om Shanti🙏 #RIPSPBalasubramanyam pic.twitter.com/weNqCthlZe — Suresh Raina🇮🇳 (@ImRaina) September 25, 2020 × Shattered to hear about passing of SPB sir. A Legend of Indian Cinema. His songs will reverberate forever. His friendship, love for the game and our chennai meetings will be cherished forever. My heartfelt condolences to Sudakar, Sailaja, Charan and rest of family and fans. 🙏🏽 — Anil Kumble (@anilkumble1074) September 25, 2020 × Extremely saddened to hear about the demise of #SPBalasubramanyam garu. My deepest Condolences to his family. His voice will always remain etched in our hearts. Om Shanti ! pic.twitter.com/BrqUirT8Kh — VVS Laxman (@VVSLaxman281) September 25, 2020 × Really sad to hear about the passing away of such a great yet simple person. He was my first sponsor! He sponsored our team Chennai Colts in the national team championship in 1983. One of the nicest persons I have met. His music gave us such joy #RIPSPB — Viswanathan Anand (@vishy64theking) September 25, 2020 × Sad to hear the Demise of the legendary singer - SPB, his songs will echo through time, condolences to his family and close friends 🙏! Om Shanti — Kris Srikkanth (@KrisSrikkanth) September 25, 2020 × Will cherish the times you unleashed the song Sankara on demand and effortlessly built up the pitch. The song from Sankarabharanam was tough to render but you made it all seem easy. Never again will I have that experience. #RIP #SPBalasubrahmanyam Sir. https://t.co/ATbDL06Yaa — W V Raman (@wvraman) September 25, 2020 × Indian Premier League team Chennai Super Kings also paid their tribute to the legendary singer. Mannin meedhu manidhanukkaasai Manidhan meedhu mannukkaasai Mann dhaan kadaisiyil jeikiradhu Idhai manam dhaan unara marukkiradhu... Your songs will live on forever. Rest in peace Legend! #RIPSPB pic.twitter.com/8r9dnfGfBT — Chennai Super Kings (@ChennaiIPL) September 25, 2020 × In an illustrious career spanning over five decades, SPB had sung more than 40,000 songs. He was undergoing treatment in MGM Healthcare since August 5 when he had first tested positive for coronavirus. He had been in critical condition the past few weeks, and the last medical update from the hospital had stated that the singer was on life support for the past few days. The veteran singer had also dabbled in acting and been a part of several blockbuster films. Awarded with Padma Bhushan SPB delivered blockbuster songs in Tamil, Hindi, Telugu and Malayalam. He was also a well-known classical singer and composed music for more than 45 films in Tamil, Telugu and Malayalam.

From R Ashwin to Vishwanathan Anand: Sporting fraternity pays tribute to SP Balasubrahmanyam

<p>Chennai Super Kings on Saturday will be clashing against defending champions Mumbai Indians in the opening game of the Indian Premier League (IPL).&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/mi-vs-csk-ipl-2020-preview-ms-dhoni-returns-but-will-it-be-sufficient-in-front-of-defending-champions-328609">MI vs CSK, IPL 2020 Preview: MS Dhoni returns but will it be sufficient?</a></p>

<p>However, CSK faced quite some setbacks before the opening match and one of them was their star batsman Suresh Raina and spinner Harbhajan Singh pulled out of the tournament citing personal reasons. The Chennai-based team has not yet announced their replacements. But, Harbhajan Singh feels that these setbacks will not affect CSK's performance in this tournament.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>IN PICS |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/ipl-trivia-top-records-of-thala-ms-dhoni-in-the-tournament-328205" hreflang="en">IPL trivia: Top records of 'Thala' MS Dhoni in the tournament</a></strong></p>

<p>"CSK is one of those sides which has a lot of experience. Yes, they don’t have Harbhajan Singh, they don’t have Suresh Raina, that’s not gonna bother them too much. They have got a wealth of experience of Shane Watson, MS Dhoni, Dwayne Bravo, Ravindra Jadeja. Yes, I am gonna miss playing with CSK this year. I don’t know how much they will miss me. They will still go forward without me or Suresh or no matter whoever," he said while speaking to India Today.</p>

<p>During the interview, Harbhajan also clarified that his wife Geeta Basra and daughter needed him to be with them rather than being on the field.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"I thought it’s important for me to be with the family and spend some time with them rather than being there in the park. I am gonna miss playing but at the same time wishing my team CSK all the very best for the tournament and I am sure they will do what they are known for," Harbhajan Singh further added.</p>


Chennai Super Kings on Saturday will be clashing against defending champions Mumbai Indians in the opening game of the Indian Premier League (IPL). Also read: MI vs CSK, IPL 2020 Preview: MS Dhoni returns but will it be sufficient?

Chennai Super Kings on Saturday will be clashing against defending champions Mumbai Indians in the opening game of the Indian Premier League (IPL). Also read: MI vs CSK, IPL 2020 Preview: MS Dhoni returns but will it be sufficient? However, CSK faced quite some setbacks before the opening match and one of them was their star batsman Suresh Raina and spinner Harbhajan Singh pulled out of the tournament citing personal reasons. The Chennai-based team has not yet announced their replacements. But, Harbhajan Singh feels that these setbacks will not affect CSK's performance in this tournament. IN PICS | IPL trivia: Top records of 'Thala' MS Dhoni in the tournament "CSK is one of those sides which has a lot of experience. Yes, they don’t have Harbhajan Singh, they don’t have Suresh Raina, that’s not gonna bother them too much. They have got a wealth of experience of Shane Watson, MS Dhoni, Dwayne Bravo, Ravindra Jadeja. Yes, I am gonna miss playing with CSK this year. I don’t know how much they will miss me. They will still go forward without me or Suresh or no matter whoever," he said while speaking to India Today. During the interview, Harbhajan also clarified that his wife Geeta Basra and daughter needed him to be with them rather than being on the field. "I thought it’s important for me to be with the family and spend some time with them rather than being there in the park. I am gonna miss playing but at the same time wishing my team CSK all the very best for the tournament and I am sure they will do what they are known for," Harbhajan Singh further added.

CSK will still go forward in IPL 2020 without me or Suresh : Harbhajan Singh

<p class="MsoNormal">Chennai Super Kings (CSK) are all set to lock horns with Mumbai Indians (MI) in the season opener of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/ipl">Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020</a> at the Sheikh Zayed Stadium in Abu Dhabi on Saturday. With the return of IPL, cricketing world will once again witness the legend of MS Dhoni take the field again. Dhoni is also on the verge of breaking a record held by Suresh Raina, who will miss IPL 2020 due to ‘personal reasons’. <o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">Dhoni, who has numerous records under his belt, is set to become the most-capped player in IPL and is just four appearances away from surpassing the record held by Raina in IPL. ‘Thala’ has led CSK in 10 seasons in IPL while winning three titles with the Yellow Army.</p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><strong>IN PICS |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/ipl-trivia-top-records-of-thala-ms-dhoni-in-the-tournament-328205" hreflang="en">IPL trivia: Top records of 'Thala' MS Dhoni in the tournament</a></strong></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">Raina is currently the most-capped player in IPL history with 193 appearances to his name while representing Chennai Super Kings and Gujarat Lions. Whereas Dhoni has 190 appearances in IPL while playing for CSK and Rising Pune Supergiant.<o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">Dhoni, who is highly likely to start every game in IPL 2020, will easily surpass the record held by Raina in their match against Sunrisers Hyderabad.</p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/mi-vs-csk-ipl-2020-preview-ms-dhoni-returns-but-will-it-be-sufficient-in-front-of-defending-champions-328609" hreflang="en">MI vs CSK, IPL 2020 Preview: MS Dhoni returns but will it be sufficient in front of defending champions?</a></strong></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">Apart from the record mentioned, Dhoni has most number of wins – 104 – as captain in IPL and is also the most successful wicket-keeper in the tournament with as many as 132 dismissals besides captaining his sides in 174 matches in IPL. <o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">With the bat, Dhoni has been a menacing force with as many as 209 sixes to his name – most by an Indian batsman. Only Chris Gayle (326) and AB de Villiers (212) are ahead of him in the list. <o:p></o:p></p>


Chennai Super Kings (CSK) are all set to lock horns with Mumbai Indians (MI) in the season opener of Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 at the Sheikh Zayed Stadium in Abu Dhabi on Saturday.

Chennai Super Kings (CSK) are all set to lock horns with Mumbai Indians (MI) in the season opener of Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 at the Sheikh Zayed Stadium in Abu Dhabi on Saturday. With the return of IPL, cricketing world will once again witness the legend of MS Dhoni take the field again. Dhoni is also on the verge of breaking a record held by Suresh Raina, who will miss IPL 2020 due to ‘personal reasons’. Dhoni, who has numerous records under his belt, is set to become the most-capped player in IPL and is just four appearances away from surpassing the record held by Raina in IPL. ‘Thala’ has led CSK in 10 seasons in IPL while winning three titles with the Yellow Army. IN PICS | IPL trivia: Top records of 'Thala' MS Dhoni in the tournament Raina is currently the most-capped player in IPL history with 193 appearances to his name while representing Chennai Super Kings and Gujarat Lions. Whereas Dhoni has 190 appearances in IPL while playing for CSK and Rising Pune Supergiant. Dhoni, who is highly likely to start every game in IPL 2020, will easily surpass the record held by Raina in their match against Sunrisers Hyderabad. ALSO READ: MI vs CSK, IPL 2020 Preview: MS Dhoni returns but will it be sufficient in front of defending champions? Apart from the record mentioned, Dhoni has most number of wins – 104 – as captain in IPL and is also the most successful wicket-keeper in the tournament with as many as 132 dismissals besides captaining his sides in 174 matches in IPL. With the bat, Dhoni has been a menacing force with as many as 209 sixes to his name – most by an Indian batsman. Only Chris Gayle (326) and AB de Villiers (212) are ahead of him in the list.

IPL 2020: MS Dhoni on the verge of surpassing Suresh Raina's record

<p>Greetings poured in from all corners of the world for Prime Minister Narendra Modi who turns 70 today. Indian sporting icons extended greetings to the Prime Minister.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Indian cricket team skipper Virat Kohli wished the Prime Minister on Twitter, He wrote: "Wishing a very Happy birthday to our honorable Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi ji. 🙏🏼 @narendramodi @PMOIndia".&nbsp;</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Wishing a very Happy birthday to our honorable Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi ji. 🙏🏼<a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/PMOIndia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@PMOIndia</a> 🇮🇳</p>
— Virat Kohli (@imVkohli) <a href="https://twitter.com/imVkohli/status/1306472426834862081?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 17, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>Former Indian batsman Suresh Raina wished the Prime Minister and wished him a long healthy life. He wrote: "Birthday wishes to our honourable Prime Minister sir @narendramodi Wishing you a long, healthy life and many more milestones ahead in the service of our nation! 🙏 @PMOIndia #HappyBdayNaMo"&nbsp;</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Birthday wishes to our honourable Prime Minister sir <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a><br />
Wishing you a long, healthy life and many more milestones ahead in the service of our nation! 🙏 <a href="https://twitter.com/PMOIndia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@PMOIndia</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/HappyBdayNaMo?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#HappyBdayNaMo</a> <a href="https://t.co/cvK82e4ibp">pic.twitter.com/cvK82e4ibp</a></p>
— Suresh Raina🇮🇳 (@ImRaina) <a href="https://twitter.com/ImRaina/status/1306439306899324929?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 17, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>Indian cricketing legend Sachin Tendulkar also wished and said that he prays to God that PM Modi lives a safe and long life. Tendulkar also shared a picture with him.</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="hi">जन्मदिन की हार्दिक शुभकामनाएं माननीय प्रधानमंत्री श्री नरेंद्र मोदी जी।<br />
<br />
मेरी ईश्वर से यही प्रार्थना है कि वो आपको हमेशा सुरक्षित रखें और लंबी उम्र दें। <a href="https://t.co/VsYJvxKdwT">pic.twitter.com/VsYJvxKdwT</a></p>
— Sachin Tendulkar (@sachin_rt) <a href="https://twitter.com/sachin_rt/status/1306463738703249416?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 17, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>Boxer Vijendra Singh wished the Prime Minister.&nbsp;</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Wish you a very happy birthday <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a> sir 🎂👏🏽 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NarendraModiBirthday?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NarendraModiBirthday</a></p>
— Vijender Singh (@boxervijender) <a href="https://twitter.com/boxervijender/status/1306446861532712963?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 17, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>“Happy Birthday to our Greatest Leader And Honourable Pm of Our Country shri @narendramodi ji,” wrote wrestler Geeta Phogat.</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Happy Birthday to our Greatest Leader And Hounarble Pm of Our Country shri <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a> ji 💐🙏 <a href="https://t.co/LAXhlgiBBp">pic.twitter.com/LAXhlgiBBp</a></p>
— geeta phogat (@geeta_phogat) <a href="https://twitter.com/geeta_phogat/status/1306445842023215105?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 17, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>Former Indian cricketer Yuvraj Singh wished the Prime Minister. He wrote: "My heartfelt wishes to our Honourable Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi ji on his birthday. Your untiring efforts, stellar leadership &amp; vision towards a stronger, self-reliant India is truly inspiring. Wishing you the best of health always".</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">My heartfelt wishes to our Honourable Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi ji on his birthday. Your untiring efforts, stellar leadership &amp; vision towards a stronger, self-reliant India is truly inspiring. Wishing you the best of health always <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/PMOIndia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@PMOIndia</a> <a href="https://t.co/951LTpVqtW">pic.twitter.com/951LTpVqtW</a></p>
— Yuvraj Singh (@YUVSTRONG12) <a href="https://twitter.com/YUVSTRONG12/status/1306464673626124288?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 17, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>Former India coach and cricketer Anil Kumble tweeted and wished the Prime Minister.&nbsp;</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Wishing our Honourable Prime Minister Shri <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a> ji a very happy birthday.</p>
— Anil Kumble (@anilkumble1074) <a href="https://twitter.com/anilkumble1074/status/1306474043797835776?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 17, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>Former cricketer and Member of Parliament Gautam Gambhir posted a picture of him sharing the stage with the Indian Prime Minister and wrote: "The man who showed 1.3 billion Indians that it doesn’t matter where you come from as long as you have the will to do something &amp; touch people’s lives!"</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">The man who showed 1.3 billion Indians that it doesn’t matter where you come from as long as you have the will to do something &amp; touch people’s lives!<br />
<br />
Birthday greetings to the one who triumphed against all odds, Honourable Prime Minister <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a> ji! <a href="https://t.co/Rz3KQ75OeZ">pic.twitter.com/Rz3KQ75OeZ</a></p>
— Gautam Gambhir (@GautamGambhir) <a href="https://twitter.com/GautamGambhir/status/1306417791013195776?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 17, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>Indian wrestler Sakshi Malik also extended her wishes to Narendra Modi.&nbsp;</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="hi">माननीय प्रधानमंत्री श्री <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a> जी को जन्मदिन की हार्दिक बधाई और शुभकामनाएं।<br />
ईश्वर से प्रार्थना करती हूँ की आप दीर्घायु हो और आपके नेतृत्व में भारत नए कीर्तिमान स्थापित करता रहे। <a href="https://twitter.com/PMOIndia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@PMOIndia</a> <a href="https://t.co/rvr0bWxFoR">pic.twitter.com/rvr0bWxFoR</a></p>
— Sakshi Malik (@SakshiMalik) <a href="https://twitter.com/SakshiMalik/status/1306438462027919360?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 17, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


Greetings poured in from all corners of the world for Prime Minister Narendra Modi who turns 70 today. Indian sporting icons extended greetings to the Prime Minister.

Greetings poured in from all corners of the world for Prime Minister Narendra Modi who turns 70 today. Indian sporting icons extended greetings to the Prime Minister. Indian cricket team skipper Virat Kohli wished the Prime Minister on Twitter, He wrote: "Wishing a very Happy birthday to our honorable Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi ji. 🙏🏼 @narendramodi @PMOIndia". Wishing a very Happy birthday to our honorable Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi ji. 🙏🏼@narendramodi @PMOIndia 🇮🇳 — Virat Kohli (@imVkohli) September 17, 2020 × Former Indian batsman Suresh Raina wished the Prime Minister and wished him a long healthy life. He wrote: "Birthday wishes to our honourable Prime Minister sir @narendramodi Wishing you a long, healthy life and many more milestones ahead in the service of our nation! 🙏 @PMOIndia #HappyBdayNaMo" Birthday wishes to our honourable Prime Minister sir @narendramodi Wishing you a long, healthy life and many more milestones ahead in the service of our nation! 🙏 @PMOIndia #HappyBdayNaMo pic.twitter.com/cvK82e4ibp — Suresh Raina🇮🇳 (@ImRaina) September 17, 2020 × Indian cricketing legend Sachin Tendulkar also wished and said that he prays to God that PM Modi lives a safe and long life. Tendulkar also shared a picture with him. जन्मदिन की हार्दिक शुभकामनाएं माननीय प्रधानमंत्री श्री नरेंद्र मोदी जी। मेरी ईश्वर से यही प्रार्थना है कि वो आपको हमेशा सुरक्षित रखें और लंबी उम्र दें। pic.twitter.com/VsYJvxKdwT — Sachin Tendulkar (@sachin_rt) September 17, 2020 × Boxer Vijendra Singh wished the Prime Minister. Wish you a very happy birthday @narendramodi sir 🎂👏🏽 #NarendraModiBirthday — Vijender Singh (@boxervijender) September 17, 2020 × “Happy Birthday to our Greatest Leader And Honourable Pm of Our Country shri @narendramodi ji,” wrote wrestler Geeta Phogat. Happy Birthday to our Greatest Leader And Hounarble Pm of Our Country shri @narendramodi ji 💐🙏 pic.twitter.com/LAXhlgiBBp — geeta phogat (@geeta_phogat) September 17, 2020 × Former Indian cricketer Yuvraj Singh wished the Prime Minister. He wrote: "My heartfelt wishes to our Honourable Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi ji on his birthday. Your untiring efforts, stellar leadership & vision towards a stronger, self-reliant India is truly inspiring. Wishing you the best of health always". My heartfelt wishes to our Honourable Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi ji on his birthday. Your untiring efforts, stellar leadership & vision towards a stronger, self-reliant India is truly inspiring. Wishing you the best of health always @narendramodi @PMOIndia pic.twitter.com/951LTpVqtW — Yuvraj Singh (@YUVSTRONG12) September 17, 2020 × Former India coach and cricketer Anil Kumble tweeted and wished the Prime Minister. Wishing our Honourable Prime Minister Shri @narendramodi ji a very happy birthday. — Anil Kumble (@anilkumble1074) September 17, 2020 × Former cricketer and Member of Parliament Gautam Gambhir posted a picture of him sharing the stage with the Indian Prime Minister and wrote: "The man who showed 1.3 billion Indians that it doesn’t matter where you come from as long as you have the will to do something & touch people’s lives!" The man who showed 1.3 billion Indians that it doesn’t matter where you come from as long as you have the will to do something & touch people’s lives! Birthday greetings to the one who triumphed against all odds, Honourable Prime Minister @narendramodi ji! pic.twitter.com/Rz3KQ75OeZ — Gautam Gambhir (@GautamGambhir) September 17, 2020 × Indian wrestler Sakshi Malik also extended her wishes to Narendra Modi. माननीय प्रधानमंत्री श्री @narendramodi जी को जन्मदिन की हार्दिक बधाई और शुभकामनाएं। ईश्वर से प्रार्थना करती हूँ की आप दीर्घायु हो और आपके नेतृत्व में भारत नए कीर्तिमान स्थापित करता रहे। @PMOIndia pic.twitter.com/rvr0bWxFoR — Sakshi Malik (@SakshiMalik) September 17, 2020 ×

Virat Kohli, Sakshi Malik lead sports fraternity's birthday wishes for PM Narendra Modi

<p>Suresh Raina on Wednesday took to social media platform Twitter to thank Punjab Police and Chief Minister Captain Amarinder Singh in solving the case related to the murder of his uncle and cousin. Raina, in his tweet, wrote that he met the investigating officers, who reportedly nabbed three criminals, in Punjab on Wednesday morning and added while the loss of his family can’t be recovered, the prompt action will prevent further crimes.</p>

<p>“This morning in Punjab,I met the investigating officers who reportedly have napped three criminals. I truly appreciate all their efforts. Our loss can’t be recovered but this will surely prevent further crimes to happen. Thank you @PunjabPoliceInd @capt_amarinder for all the help,” Raina tweeted.</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">This morning in Punjab,I met the investigating officers who reportedly have napped three criminals. I truly appreciate all their efforts. Our loss can’t be recovered but this will surely prevent further crimes to happen. Thank you <a href="https://twitter.com/PunjabPoliceInd?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@PunjabPoliceInd</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/capt_amarinder?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@capt_amarinder</a> for all the help</p>
— Suresh Raina🇮🇳 (@ImRaina) <a href="https://twitter.com/ImRaina/status/1306163342390763520?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 16, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>Punjab CM Captain Amarinder Singh on Wednesday said that three alleged members of an interstate gang were arrested in the case related to Raina and his family.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>IN PICS&nbsp;|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/ipl-2020-from-raina-to-malinga-top-players-who-have-pulled-out-of-the-tournament-326040">IPL 2020: From Raina to Malinga - Top players who have pulled out of the tournament</a></strong></p>

<p>Raina’s uncle Ashok Kumar and cousin Kaushal Kumar were murdered by the robbers when they were returning home from Pathankot on August 20. Raina’s aunt Asha Rani, in critical condition, was admitted to a hospital.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The former Indian batsman, who announced his international retirement on August 15, returned back to India from the UAE while leaving the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) camp due to ‘personal reasons’.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2020-the-way-i-am-hitting-the-ball-hardik-pandya-upbeat-about-his-form-327885">IPL 2020: 'The way I am hitting the ball...' - Hardik upbeat about his form</a></strong></p>

<p>A gold ring, a women’s ring, gold chain, INR 1,530 and two wooden poles have been recovered from the arrested. &nbsp;They have identified the arrested accused as Sawan, Muhabbat, and Shah Rukh Khan.</p>

<p>Earlier on September 1, Raina tweeted: “What happened to my family is Punjab was beyond horrible. My uncle was slaughtered to death, my bua &amp; both my cousins had sever injuries. Unfortunately my cousin also passed away last night after battling for life for days. My bua is still very very critical &amp; is on life support. Till date we don’t know what exactly had happened that night &amp; who did this. I request @PunjabPoliceInd to look into this matter. We at least deserve to know who did this heinous act to them. Those criminals should not be spared to commit more crimes. @capt_amarinder @CMOPb”</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Till date we don’t know what exactly had happened that night &amp; who did this. I request <a href="https://twitter.com/PunjabPoliceInd?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@PunjabPoliceInd</a> to look into this matter. We at least deserve to know who did this heinous act to them. Those criminals should not be spared to commit more crimes. <a href="https://twitter.com/capt_amarinder?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@capt_amarinder</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/CMOPb?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@CMOPb</a></p>
— Suresh Raina🇮🇳 (@ImRaina) <a href="https://twitter.com/ImRaina/status/1300680056608612353?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 1, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>Meanwhile, it is yet to be known whether Raina will return back to CSK camp for <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/ipl">IPL 2020</a>, scheduled to start from September 19.<br />
&nbsp;</p>


Suresh Raina on Wednesday took to social media platform Twitter to thank Punjab Police and Chief Minister Captain Amarinder Singh in solving the case related to the murder of his uncle and cousin.

Suresh Raina on Wednesday took to social media platform Twitter to thank Punjab Police and Chief Minister Captain Amarinder Singh in solving the case related to the murder of his uncle and cousin. Raina, in his tweet, wrote that he met the investigating officers, who reportedly nabbed three criminals, in Punjab on Wednesday morning and added while the loss of his family can’t be recovered, the prompt action will prevent further crimes. “This morning in Punjab,I met the investigating officers who reportedly have napped three criminals. I truly appreciate all their efforts. Our loss can’t be recovered but this will surely prevent further crimes to happen. Thank you @PunjabPoliceInd @capt_amarinder for all the help,” Raina tweeted. This morning in Punjab,I met the investigating officers who reportedly have napped three criminals. I truly appreciate all their efforts. Our loss can’t be recovered but this will surely prevent further crimes to happen. Thank you @PunjabPoliceInd @capt_amarinder for all the help — Suresh Raina🇮🇳 (@ImRaina) September 16, 2020 × Punjab CM Captain Amarinder Singh on Wednesday said that three alleged members of an interstate gang were arrested in the case related to Raina and his family. IN PICS | IPL 2020: From Raina to Malinga - Top players who have pulled out of the tournament Raina’s uncle Ashok Kumar and cousin Kaushal Kumar were murdered by the robbers when they were returning home from Pathankot on August 20. Raina’s aunt Asha Rani, in critical condition, was admitted to a hospital. The former Indian batsman, who announced his international retirement on August 15, returned back to India from the UAE while leaving the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) camp due to ‘personal reasons’. ALSO READ: IPL 2020: 'The way I am hitting the ball...' - Hardik upbeat about his form A gold ring, a women’s ring, gold chain, INR 1,530 and two wooden poles have been recovered from the arrested. They have identified the arrested accused as Sawan, Muhabbat, and Shah Rukh Khan. Earlier on September 1, Raina tweeted: “What happened to my family is Punjab was beyond horrible. My uncle was slaughtered to death, my bua & both my cousins had sever injuries. Unfortunately my cousin also passed away last night after battling for life for days. My bua is still very very critical & is on life support. Till date we don’t know what exactly had happened that night & who did this. I request @PunjabPoliceInd to look into this matter. We at least deserve to know who did this heinous act to them. Those criminals should not be spared to commit more crimes. @capt_amarinder @CMOPb” Till date we don’t know what exactly had happened that night & who did this. I request @PunjabPoliceInd to look into this matter. We at least deserve to know who did this heinous act to them. Those criminals should not be spared to commit more crimes. @capt_amarinder @CMOPb — Suresh Raina🇮🇳 (@ImRaina) September 1, 2020 × Meanwhile, it is yet to be known whether Raina will return back to CSK camp for IPL 2020, scheduled to start from September 19.

'Truly appreciate the efforts': Suresh Raina reacts as Punjab police arrest 3 for murder of his relatives

<p>Suresh Raina, IPL's second-highest run-scorer, pulled out of this year's T20 tournament citing personal reasons. Raina's void is yet to be filled by a player in the CSK squad for the upcoming IPL 2020.&nbsp;However, Indian batting legend K Srikkanth believes that Murali Vijay could replace the player.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2020-australian-players-to-remain-in-isolation-for-six-days-says-csk-bowling-consultant-simons-327233" hreflang="en">IPL 2020: Australian players to remain in isolation for six days, says CSK bowling consultant Simons</a></p>

<p>According to Srikkanth, it is an ideal opportunity for Murali Vijay to make a comeback in the IPL.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-can-help-australian-and-indian-players-with-challenging-practice-before-december-series-chappel-327229" hreflang="en">IPL can help Australian and Indian players with 'challenging' practice before December series: Chappel</a></p>

<p>Vijay returned to CSK in 2018 after playing for KXIP and Delhi Daredevils.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“See, in my opinion, it’s a good opportunity for Vijay. He is determined. Whenever we met, he says he has been practising well and looking for opportunities to do well,” Srikkanth said in his YouTube show ‘Cheeky Cheeka’</p>

<p><strong>In pics:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/ipl-2020-predicting-mvps-from-each-franchise-326829" hreflang="en">IPL 2020: Predicting MVPs from each franchise</a></p>

<p>“Don’t forget, Vijay is a big-match player, he can open with Shane Watson. It’s a great opportunity for him to redeem himself in the IPL. He has led sides like KXIP. Having played at that level, he would be keen to redeem himself.”</p>

<p>“I still believe this team is a good team. They will definitely reach the top 4. CSK have the experience. The overall strength of CSK is MS Dhoni leading and experience. Dhoni knows the formula of winning,” Srikkanth said.</p>

<p>CSK opener Shane Watson talked about Raina's departure and how Vijay is a capable option for the team's batting department.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“No doubt he [Raina] is a big loss but we have got someone like Murali Vijay, who is a gun player. In T20 cricket, he has not got a lot of opportunities in the last few years. But he is a seriously good batsman. He was sitting on the sidelines last year, he might get more opportunities this year,” said Watson.</p>


Suresh Raina, IPL's second-highest run-scorer, pulled out of this year's T20 tournament citing personal reasons. Raina's void is yet to be filled by a player in the CSK squad for the upcoming IPL 2020.

Suresh Raina, IPL's second-highest run-scorer, pulled out of this year's T20 tournament citing personal reasons. Raina's void is yet to be filled by a player in the CSK squad for the upcoming IPL 2020. However, Indian batting legend K Srikkanth believes that Murali Vijay could replace the player. Also read: IPL 2020: Australian players to remain in isolation for six days, says CSK bowling consultant Simons According to Srikkanth, it is an ideal opportunity for Murali Vijay to make a comeback in the IPL. Also read: IPL can help Australian and Indian players with 'challenging' practice before December series: Chappel Vijay returned to CSK in 2018 after playing for KXIP and Delhi Daredevils. “See, in my opinion, it’s a good opportunity for Vijay. He is determined. Whenever we met, he says he has been practising well and looking for opportunities to do well,” Srikkanth said in his YouTube show ‘Cheeky Cheeka’ In pics: IPL 2020: Predicting MVPs from each franchise “Don’t forget, Vijay is a big-match player, he can open with Shane Watson. It’s a great opportunity for him to redeem himself in the IPL. He has led sides like KXIP. Having played at that level, he would be keen to redeem himself.” “I still believe this team is a good team. They will definitely reach the top 4. CSK have the experience. The overall strength of CSK is MS Dhoni leading and experience. Dhoni knows the formula of winning,” Srikkanth said. CSK opener Shane Watson talked about Raina's departure and how Vijay is a capable option for the team's batting department. “No doubt he [Raina] is a big loss but we have got someone like Murali Vijay, who is a gun player. In T20 cricket, he has not got a lot of opportunities in the last few years. But he is a seriously good batsman. He was sitting on the sidelines last year, he might get more opportunities this year,” said Watson.

'He is determined': K Srikkanth believes a batsman in CSK squad can succeed in IPL 2020

<p>Suresh Raina opting out of Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 has left a huge void in the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) as the three-time IPL winners will be without their leading run-scorer and second in tournament history. While there have been speculations over who would replace Raina or whether the southpaw would return back to the Super Kings back, former New Zealand all-rounder Scott Styris has said he would put Ambati Rayudu at number three spot in the CSK batting line-up.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Styris opined that CSK have a lot of options in their overseas players or even someone like Ruturaj Gaikwad or Ravindra Jadeja but added he would personally put Rayudu at number three in the CSK batting line-up.</p>

<p><strong>IN PICS |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/ipl-2020-from-raina-to-malinga-top-players-who-have-pulled-out-of-the-tournament-326040" hreflang="en">IPL 2020: From Raina to Malinga - Top players who have pulled out of the tournament</a></strong></p>

<p>“Yeah, tough one, isn’t it, a player of that class, a player who has been so good for so long. To suddenly finds those runs, even in the field and the odd over as well with the ball, is going to be a big task. I know that the CSK squad is deep, they’ve got a lot of options at the top, but I also believe that as much as the pressure is now on to find that No. 3, it’s just probably the most challenging time that I can look for any way for CSK,” said Styris on Star Sports’ Cricket Connected.</p>

<p>“Couple of options they could go with, the two overseas players at the top and bring in the youngster Gaikwad as well or they may decide to have a pitch-hitter. I know that Simon Doull, my fellow New Zealander is guesstimated that Mitchell Santner could go to the top. May be even someone like Jadeja too, who we have seen in Indian colours, has been so good, so they need to find that No. 3. Personally, I’d put Rayudu in there to take that spot,” added Styris.'</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2020-dawid-malan-to-replace-suresh-raina-csk-ceo-clears-the-air-326804" hreflang="en">IPL 2020: Dawid Malan to replace Suresh Raina? CSK CEO clears the air</a></strong></p>

<p>Meanwhile, Chennai Super Kings (CSK) CEO Kasi Viswanathan has dismissed the rumours of England batsman Dawid Malan replacing Raina as he said that CSK’s overseas quota is full.&nbsp;</p>

<p>CSK will open their campaign on match day one against defending champions Mumbai Indians on September 19.&nbsp;<br />
&nbsp;</p>


Suresh Raina opting out of Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 has left a huge void in the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) as the three-time IPL winners will be without their leading run-scorer and second in tournament history.

Suresh Raina opting out of Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 has left a huge void in the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) as the three-time IPL winners will be without their leading run-scorer and second in tournament history. While there have been speculations over who would replace Raina or whether the southpaw would return back to the Super Kings back, former New Zealand all-rounder Scott Styris has said he would put Ambati Rayudu at number three spot in the CSK batting line-up. Styris opined that CSK have a lot of options in their overseas players or even someone like Ruturaj Gaikwad or Ravindra Jadeja but added he would personally put Rayudu at number three in the CSK batting line-up. IN PICS | IPL 2020: From Raina to Malinga - Top players who have pulled out of the tournament “Yeah, tough one, isn’t it, a player of that class, a player who has been so good for so long. To suddenly finds those runs, even in the field and the odd over as well with the ball, is going to be a big task. I know that the CSK squad is deep, they’ve got a lot of options at the top, but I also believe that as much as the pressure is now on to find that No. 3, it’s just probably the most challenging time that I can look for any way for CSK,” said Styris on Star Sports’ Cricket Connected. “Couple of options they could go with, the two overseas players at the top and bring in the youngster Gaikwad as well or they may decide to have a pitch-hitter. I know that Simon Doull, my fellow New Zealander is guesstimated that Mitchell Santner could go to the top. May be even someone like Jadeja too, who we have seen in Indian colours, has been so good, so they need to find that No. 3. Personally, I’d put Rayudu in there to take that spot,” added Styris.' ALSO READ: IPL 2020: Dawid Malan to replace Suresh Raina? CSK CEO clears the air Meanwhile, Chennai Super Kings (CSK) CEO Kasi Viswanathan has dismissed the rumours of England batsman Dawid Malan replacing Raina as he said that CSK’s overseas quota is full. CSK will open their campaign on match day one against defending champions Mumbai Indians on September 19.

IPL 13: Who should replace Suresh Raina in CSK playing XI? Scott Styris opines

<p>Suresh Raina on Wednesday revealed the reason behind <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/suresh-raina-to-miss-ipl-2020-due-to-personal-reasons-323862">him leaving the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) camp</a> ahead of much-awaited <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/ipl">Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020</a>. There were many reports citing different theories but Raina has now come out in public to reveal what made him return back to India.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Raina said that there was something that needed to be addressed immediately on a personal front while adding that he might even return back to the Super Kings camp for IPL 2020. The swashbuckling southpaw said that he has a young family and was worried about them during this time of global pandemic.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“It was a personal decision and I had to come back for my family. There was something that needed to be addressed immediately on the home front. CSK is my family too and Mahi bhai (MS Dhoni) is very important to me and this was a tough decision. There is no issue between CSK and me. Nobody will just turn their back on Rs 12.5 crore and walk away without a solid reason. I might have retired from international cricket but I'm still young and I am looking forward to playing for them in the IPL for the next 4-5 years,” Raina told Cricbuzz.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>TRENDING |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-covid-19-positive-deepak-chahar-inspires-as-csk-share-his-leg-day-workout-video-324566" hreflang="en">Watch: COVID-19 positive Deepak Chahar inspires as CSK share his leg-day workout video</a></strong></p>

<p>Speculation surrounding Raina’s sudden exit was rife when Srinivasan termed him as ‘Prima Donna’ while adding that sometimes success can get into the head of players among other comments. However, the Super Kings boss clarified that he was misquoted.</p>

<p>Speaking of Srinivasan, Raina said: “He is like a father figure to me and he's always stood by me and is close to my heart. He treats me like his younger son and am sure a lot of what he said was taken out of context. Ek baap apne bacche ko daant sakta hai(A father can scold his son). He didn't know the real reasons for me leaving when he gave those comments. Now he's been informed about them and he even sent me a message thereafter. We've chatted about it and both CSK and I just want to get over with it.”</p>

<p>Raina didn’t rule out the possibility of returning to Chennai Super Kings camp for IPL 2020 and lauded the BCCI and CSK team management for doing a commendable job with the bio-secure environment and organising IPL 2020 in UAE.</p>

<p>“I've been training even while quarantining here. You never know you might see me in the camp there again.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“The team management and BCCI are doing a very commendable job keeping everyone safe. This has never been done before and its new for everyone. It's a highly secure environment and no one without access can move anywhere. We were all inside our rooms with no human interaction and there was a test every 2 days,” Raina said.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2020-csk-players-staff-test-negative-for-covid-19-to-undergo-another-test-324517" hreflang="en">IPL 2020: CSK players, staff test negative for COVID-19; to undergo another test</a></strong></p>

<p>“I have a young family back home and I was concerned about the fact that if something happened to me, unka kya hoga?(what'll happen to them). My family is most important to me and I am really concerned for them during these times. I haven't seen my kids for more than 20 days, even after coming back, since I am in quarantine,” he added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Raina further spoke about the horrific incident involving his family in Pathankot, Punjab, where his uncle was slaughtered to death by assailants as he said it was his responsibility to return home and take care of them.</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Till date we don’t know what exactly had happened that night &amp; who did this. I request <a href="https://twitter.com/PunjabPoliceInd?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@PunjabPoliceInd</a> to look into this matter. We at least deserve to know who did this heinous act to them. Those criminals should not be spared to commit more crimes. <a href="https://twitter.com/capt_amarinder?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@capt_amarinder</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/CMOPb?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@CMOPb</a></p>
— Suresh Raina🇮🇳 (@ImRaina) <a href="https://twitter.com/ImRaina/status/1300680056608612353?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 1, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>“The Pathankot incident was horrible and has really been very disturbing for everyone in our family. And it was my responsibility to come back and take care of them. But since I've returned, I've been in quarantine here. So, I still have to go meet my parents and my buawho are all in great distress,” Raina said.<br />
&nbsp;</p>


Suresh Raina on Wednesday revealed the reason behind him leaving the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) camp ahead of much-awaited Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020. There were many reports citing different theories but Raina has now come out in public to reveal what made him return back to India.

Suresh Raina on Wednesday revealed the reason behind him leaving the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) camp ahead of much-awaited Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020. There were many reports citing different theories but Raina has now come out in public to reveal what made him return back to India. Raina said that there was something that needed to be addressed immediately on a personal front while adding that he might even return back to the Super Kings camp for IPL 2020. The swashbuckling southpaw said that he has a young family and was worried about them during this time of global pandemic. “It was a personal decision and I had to come back for my family. There was something that needed to be addressed immediately on the home front. CSK is my family too and Mahi bhai (MS Dhoni) is very important to me and this was a tough decision. There is no issue between CSK and me. Nobody will just turn their back on Rs 12.5 crore and walk away without a solid reason. I might have retired from international cricket but I'm still young and I am looking forward to playing for them in the IPL for the next 4-5 years,” Raina told Cricbuzz. TRENDING | Watch: COVID-19 positive Deepak Chahar inspires as CSK share his leg-day workout video Speculation surrounding Raina’s sudden exit was rife when Srinivasan termed him as ‘Prima Donna’ while adding that sometimes success can get into the head of players among other comments. However, the Super Kings boss clarified that he was misquoted. Speaking of Srinivasan, Raina said: “He is like a father figure to me and he's always stood by me and is close to my heart. He treats me like his younger son and am sure a lot of what he said was taken out of context. Ek baap apne bacche ko daant sakta hai(A father can scold his son). He didn't know the real reasons for me leaving when he gave those comments. Now he's been informed about them and he even sent me a message thereafter. We've chatted about it and both CSK and I just want to get over with it.” Raina didn’t rule out the possibility of returning to Chennai Super Kings camp for IPL 2020 and lauded the BCCI and CSK team management for doing a commendable job with the bio-secure environment and organising IPL 2020 in UAE. “I've been training even while quarantining here. You never know you might see me in the camp there again. “The team management and BCCI are doing a very commendable job keeping everyone safe. This has never been done before and its new for everyone. It's a highly secure environment and no one without access can move anywhere. We were all inside our rooms with no human interaction and there was a test every 2 days,” Raina said. ALSO READ: IPL 2020: CSK players, staff test negative for COVID-19; to undergo another test “I have a young family back home and I was concerned about the fact that if something happened to me, unka kya hoga?(what'll happen to them). My family is most important to me and I am really concerned for them during these times. I haven't seen my kids for more than 20 days, even after coming back, since I am in quarantine,” he added. Raina further spoke about the horrific incident involving his family in Pathankot, Punjab, where his uncle was slaughtered to death by assailants as he said it was his responsibility to return home and take care of them. Till date we don’t know what exactly had happened that night & who did this. I request @PunjabPoliceInd to look into this matter. We at least deserve to know who did this heinous act to them. Those criminals should not be spared to commit more crimes. @capt_amarinder @CMOPb — Suresh Raina🇮🇳 (@ImRaina) September 1, 2020 × “The Pathankot incident was horrible and has really been very disturbing for everyone in our family. And it was my responsibility to come back and take care of them. But since I've returned, I've been in quarantine here. So, I still have to go meet my parents and my buawho are all in great distress,” Raina said.

IPL 2020: Suresh Raina reveals reason behind leaving CSK camp, gives hint of a comeback

<p>Suresh Raina on Tuesday opened up for the first time since leaving the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) camp ahead of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/ipl?page=1">Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020</a> as the former Indian cricketer took to social media platform Twitter to write about an incident related to his family in Pathankot, Punjab.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Earlier it was reported that Raina’s uncle had died while four members of his family sustained critical injuries in an attack by robbers in Punjab’s Pathankot district. Raina confirmed it while adding his cousin passed away last night after battling for life for days while adding other member of his family is very critical and is on life support.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The southpaw further wrote that who is behind the incident is still unknown while requesting Punjab police to look into the matter.</p>

<p>“What happened to my family is Punjab was beyond horrible. My uncle was slaughtered to death, my bua &amp; both my cousins had sever injuries. Unfortunately my cousin also passed away last night after battling for life for days. My bua is still very very critical &amp; is on life support,” Raina tweeted on Tuesday.'</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/suresh-raina-to-miss-ipl-2020-due-to-personal-reasons-323862" hreflang="en">Suresh Raina to miss IPL 2020 due to personal reasons</a></strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">What happened to my family is Punjab was beyond horrible. My uncle was slaughtered to death, my bua &amp; both my cousins had sever injuries. Unfortunately my cousin also passed away last night after battling for life for days. My bua is still very very critical &amp; is on life support.</p>
— Suresh Raina🇮🇳 (@ImRaina) <a href="https://twitter.com/ImRaina/status/1300680050677817344?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 1, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>“Till date we don’t know what exactly had happened that night &amp; who did this. I request @PunjabPoliceInd to look into this matter. We at least deserve to know who did this heinous act to them. Those criminals should not be spared to commit more crimes. @capt_amarinder @CMOPb,” Raina added.</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-conversation="none">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Till date we don’t know what exactly had happened that night &amp; who did this. I request <a href="https://twitter.com/PunjabPoliceInd?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@PunjabPoliceInd</a> to look into this matter. We at least deserve to know who did this heinous act to them. Those criminals should not be spared to commit more crimes. <a href="https://twitter.com/capt_amarinder?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@capt_amarinder</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/CMOPb?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@CMOPb</a></p>
— Suresh Raina🇮🇳 (@ImRaina) <a href="https://twitter.com/ImRaina/status/1300680056608612353?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 1, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/dinesh-karthik-opines-on-mankading-says-giving-warning-is-accepted-as-spirit-of-cricket-322738" hreflang="en">Dinesh Karthik opines on 'Mankading', says 'giving warning is accepted as spirit of cricket'</a></strong></p>

<p>According to police, three to four members of the ‘Kale Kachhewala’ gang had come in the house with an intention to loot and attacked the family members at their house in Thariyal village near Madhopur of Pathankot while fleeing with some cash and gold from the house.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Ashok Kumar’s 80-year-old mother Satya Devi, his wife Asha Devi, sons Apin and Kuashal suffered injuries, said police.<br />
Raina left the CSK camp in UAE ahead of IPL 2020 giving major headaches to the team. However, the three-time IPL winning franchise said that they fully support Raina’s decision while asking to give him personal space.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“Suresh Raina has returned to India for personal reasons and will be unavailable for the remainder of the IPL season. Chennai Super Kings offers complete support to Suresh and his family during this time,” CSK tweeted CEO Kasi Viswanathan’s statement after Raina’s decision to opt out from IPL 2020.<br />
&nbsp;</p>


Suresh Raina on Tuesday opened up for the first time since leaving the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) camp ahead of Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 as the former Indian cricketer took to social media platform Twitter to write about an incident related to his family in Pathankot, Punjab.

Suresh Raina on Tuesday opened up for the first time since leaving the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) camp ahead of Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 as the former Indian cricketer took to social media platform Twitter to write about an incident related to his family in Pathankot, Punjab. Earlier it was reported that Raina’s uncle had died while four members of his family sustained critical injuries in an attack by robbers in Punjab’s Pathankot district. Raina confirmed it while adding his cousin passed away last night after battling for life for days while adding other member of his family is very critical and is on life support. The southpaw further wrote that who is behind the incident is still unknown while requesting Punjab police to look into the matter. “What happened to my family is Punjab was beyond horrible. My uncle was slaughtered to death, my bua & both my cousins had sever injuries. Unfortunately my cousin also passed away last night after battling for life for days. My bua is still very very critical & is on life support,” Raina tweeted on Tuesday.' ALSO READ: Suresh Raina to miss IPL 2020 due to personal reasons What happened to my family is Punjab was beyond horrible. My uncle was slaughtered to death, my bua & both my cousins had sever injuries. Unfortunately my cousin also passed away last night after battling for life for days. My bua is still very very critical & is on life support. — Suresh Raina🇮🇳 (@ImRaina) September 1, 2020 × “Till date we don’t know what exactly had happened that night & who did this. I request @PunjabPoliceInd to look into this matter. We at least deserve to know who did this heinous act to them. Those criminals should not be spared to commit more crimes. @capt_amarinder @CMOPb,” Raina added. Till date we don’t know what exactly had happened that night & who did this. I request @PunjabPoliceInd to look into this matter. We at least deserve to know who did this heinous act to them. Those criminals should not be spared to commit more crimes. @capt_amarinder @CMOPb — Suresh Raina🇮🇳 (@ImRaina) September 1, 2020 × ALSO READ: Dinesh Karthik opines on 'Mankading', says 'giving warning is accepted as spirit of cricket' According to police, three to four members of the ‘Kale Kachhewala’ gang had come in the house with an intention to loot and attacked the family members at their house in Thariyal village near Madhopur of Pathankot while fleeing with some cash and gold from the house. Ashok Kumar’s 80-year-old mother Satya Devi, his wife Asha Devi, sons Apin and Kuashal suffered injuries, said police. Raina left the CSK camp in UAE ahead of IPL 2020 giving major headaches to the team. However, the three-time IPL winning franchise said that they fully support Raina’s decision while asking to give him personal space. “Suresh Raina has returned to India for personal reasons and will be unavailable for the remainder of the IPL season. Chennai Super Kings offers complete support to Suresh and his family during this time,” CSK tweeted CEO Kasi Viswanathan’s statement after Raina’s decision to opt out from IPL 2020.

Suresh Raina opens up for first time since leaving Chennai Super Kings camp

<p>His exit from the IPL attributed to personal reasons this season, all-rounder Suresh Raina's stint with Chennai Super Kings seems in jeopardy even next year as the franchise might part ways with him before the 2021 edition.</p>

<p>The CSK camp based in Dubai reported 13 COVID-19 cases, including two main squad members Deepak Chahar and Ruturaj Gaikwad, a development which an IPL source said, played a role in the recently-retired India player's exit from the event starting September 19.</p>

<p>However, it has now emerged that the team management was not particularly happy with the 32-year-old's "conduct" during the quarantine time, something which infuriated CSK owner and former BCCI president N Srinivasan.</p>

<p>"In CSK, the norm is that the coach, captain and the manager get suites. However, Raina also gets a suite in any hotel that the franchise stays. It's just that his room didn't have a balcony," an IPL source told PTI.</p>

<p>"It was an issue but I don't think big enough to warrant a comeback (to India). There could be something more than just the scare of rising COVID-caseload in Chennai," the source added, alluding to a speculated breach of the bio-bubble by Raina.</p>

<p>He said given the situation, Raina could well be gone for good now not only this season but also the next IPL scheduled in April, 2021. Chennai's favourite 'Chinna Thala' may not wear the Canary yellow again.</p>

<p>Is there a possibility of Raina coming back this season, thereby changing the circumstances?</p>

<p>"He is unavailable this season and that is clear from the official statement issued by the CSK. Now there are certain things that have not gone down too well with the top people," the source said.</p>

<p>"It looks highly improbable that someone who has retired and likely won't play any cricket will come back for CSK. Maybe, he will be back in auction and someone else might pick him."</p>

<p>CSK is punting heavily on young Ruturaj, expecting that he will come good once he completes the quarantine and rejoins the training session after two negative tests.</p>

<p>"CSK has not yet asked for an official replacement for Raina...They are undecided," the IPL source added.</p>

<p>On the speculated bio-bubble breach, the source said an apology from Raina will have little impact given that the team is looking ahead.</p>

<p>"I don't know about the apology part but CSK will now be eyeing to prepare Ruturaj looking at the future and Dhoni and Fleming will rejig their strategy accordingly," the source added.</p>

<p>Raina is CSK's highest run-getter with 4527 runs from 164 IPL games. The Uttar Pradesh left-hander is also the second highest scorer in IPL history with 5368 runs, second only to Indian skipper Virat Kohli's 5412 runs.<br />
&nbsp;</p>


His exit from the IPL attributed to personal reasons this season, all-rounder Suresh Raina's stint with Chennai Super Kings seems in jeopardy even next year as the franchise might part ways with him before the 2021 edition.

His exit from the IPL attributed to personal reasons this season, all-rounder Suresh Raina's stint with Chennai Super Kings seems in jeopardy even next year as the franchise might part ways with him before the 2021 edition. The CSK camp based in Dubai reported 13 COVID-19 cases, including two main squad members Deepak Chahar and Ruturaj Gaikwad, a development which an IPL source said, played a role in the recently-retired India player's exit from the event starting September 19. However, it has now emerged that the team management was not particularly happy with the 32-year-old's "conduct" during the quarantine time, something which infuriated CSK owner and former BCCI president N Srinivasan. "In CSK, the norm is that the coach, captain and the manager get suites. However, Raina also gets a suite in any hotel that the franchise stays. It's just that his room didn't have a balcony," an IPL source told PTI. "It was an issue but I don't think big enough to warrant a comeback (to India). There could be something more than just the scare of rising COVID-caseload in Chennai," the source added, alluding to a speculated breach of the bio-bubble by Raina. He said given the situation, Raina could well be gone for good now not only this season but also the next IPL scheduled in April, 2021. Chennai's favourite 'Chinna Thala' may not wear the Canary yellow again. Is there a possibility of Raina coming back this season, thereby changing the circumstances? "He is unavailable this season and that is clear from the official statement issued by the CSK. Now there are certain things that have not gone down too well with the top people," the source said. "It looks highly improbable that someone who has retired and likely won't play any cricket will come back for CSK. Maybe, he will be back in auction and someone else might pick him." CSK is punting heavily on young Ruturaj, expecting that he will come good once he completes the quarantine and rejoins the training session after two negative tests. "CSK has not yet asked for an official replacement for Raina...They are undecided," the IPL source added. On the speculated bio-bubble breach, the source said an apology from Raina will have little impact given that the team is looking ahead. "I don't know about the apology part but CSK will now be eyeing to prepare Ruturaj looking at the future and Dhoni and Fleming will rejig their strategy accordingly," the source added. Raina is CSK's highest run-getter with 4527 runs from 164 IPL games. The Uttar Pradesh left-hander is also the second highest scorer in IPL history with 5368 runs, second only to Indian skipper Virat Kohli's 5412 runs.

End of road for Suresh Raina in CSK?

<p>Chennai Super Kings owner and former BCCI president N Srinivasan reacted to veteran batsman Suresh Raina pulling out of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/ipl">IPL 2020</a> as he said that the southpaw will regret his decision of heading back to India and would want to come back in some point of time apart from the hefty INR 11 crore per season of his salary.</p>

<p>Entire CSK fan base was left shocked when the Super Kings on Saturday announced that Raina will miss IPL 2020 due to ‘personal reasons’. While speculation was rife that positive cases in the CSK contingent played a role in Raina pulling his name out of IPL 2020, the report in Outlook which had comments from Srinivasan as well, stated that Raina was unhappy with his hotel room and wanted a similar room which was allotted to MS Dhoni. Apparently, a room without balconies made Raina ‘claustrophobic’ in the strict bio-secure environment.</p>

<p>The season has not begun yet and Raina will certainly realise what he is missing and certainly all the money (a salary of 11 crores per season) he is going to lose,” Srinivasan told Outlook.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2020-bcci-confirms-13-positive-covid-19-cases-after-initial-rounds-of-testing-323898" hreflang="en">IPL 2020: BCCI confirms 13 positive COVID-19 cases after initial rounds of testing</a></strong></p>

<p>“My thinking is that if you are reluctant or not happy, go back. I don’t force anyone to do anything ... sometimes success gets into your head,” he further said.</p>

<p>Srinivasan added that cricketers are like temperamental actors of the olden days and in CSK, senior players have learned to co-exist.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“Cricketers are like prima donnas ... like the temperamental actors of the olden days. Chennai Super Kings have always been like a family and all senior players have learned to co-exist,” said Srinivasan.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/suresh-raina-to-miss-ipl-2020-due-to-personal-reasons-323862" hreflang="en">Suresh Raina to miss IPL 2020 due to personal reasons</a></strong></p>

<p>However, the exact reason of Raina opting out of IPL 2020 is still unknown and it will be the first season where the second-highest run-scorer in IPL history will miss the lucrative tournament, which is scheduled to be held in the UAE from September 19 to November 10.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"I spoke to MS (Dhoni) and he has assured me that even if the numbers go up, there was nothing to worry. He spoke to the players through a zoom call and asked them to remain safe. You really don't know who is a passive carrier," Srinivasan said.</p>

<p>"I have got a solid captain. Dhoni is simply unfazed by anything. That is giving everyone in the team a lot of confidence," Srinivasan added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>While Raina is known for his down to earth and happy going demeanour, it is surprising to see reports stating that there was a rift between him and CSK management.&nbsp;<br />
&nbsp;</p>


Chennai Super Kings owner and former BCCI president N Srinivasan reacted to veteran batsman Suresh Raina pulling out of IPL 2020 as he said that the southpaw will regret his decision of heading back to India and would want to come back in some point of time apart from the hefty INR 11 crore per season of his salary.

Chennai Super Kings owner and former BCCI president N Srinivasan reacted to veteran batsman Suresh Raina pulling out of IPL 2020 as he said that the southpaw will regret his decision of heading back to India and would want to come back in some point of time apart from the hefty INR 11 crore per season of his salary. Entire CSK fan base was left shocked when the Super Kings on Saturday announced that Raina will miss IPL 2020 due to ‘personal reasons’. While speculation was rife that positive cases in the CSK contingent played a role in Raina pulling his name out of IPL 2020, the report in Outlook which had comments from Srinivasan as well, stated that Raina was unhappy with his hotel room and wanted a similar room which was allotted to MS Dhoni. Apparently, a room without balconies made Raina ‘claustrophobic’ in the strict bio-secure environment. The season has not begun yet and Raina will certainly realise what he is missing and certainly all the money (a salary of 11 crores per season) he is going to lose,” Srinivasan told Outlook. ALSO READ: IPL 2020: BCCI confirms 13 positive COVID-19 cases after initial rounds of testing “My thinking is that if you are reluctant or not happy, go back. I don’t force anyone to do anything ... sometimes success gets into your head,” he further said. Srinivasan added that cricketers are like temperamental actors of the olden days and in CSK, senior players have learned to co-exist. “Cricketers are like prima donnas ... like the temperamental actors of the olden days. Chennai Super Kings have always been like a family and all senior players have learned to co-exist,” said Srinivasan. ALSO READ: Suresh Raina to miss IPL 2020 due to personal reasons However, the exact reason of Raina opting out of IPL 2020 is still unknown and it will be the first season where the second-highest run-scorer in IPL history will miss the lucrative tournament, which is scheduled to be held in the UAE from September 19 to November 10. "I spoke to MS (Dhoni) and he has assured me that even if the numbers go up, there was nothing to worry. He spoke to the players through a zoom call and asked them to remain safe. You really don't know who is a passive carrier," Srinivasan said. "I have got a solid captain. Dhoni is simply unfazed by anything. That is giving everyone in the team a lot of confidence," Srinivasan added. While Raina is known for his down to earth and happy going demeanour, it is surprising to see reports stating that there was a rift between him and CSK management.

IPL 2020: Suresh Raina's exit due to rift over hotel room? N Srinivasan says 'sometimes success gets into head'

<p>Chennai Super Kings on Saturday announced that Suresh Raina will be missing the upcoming <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/ipl">Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020</a> due to personal reasons. The development comes as a huge blow to Chennai Super Kings as Raina has been a force to reckon with in IPL.</p>

<p>The southpaw was looking in high spirits and sounded excited for IPL 2020 but unfortunately, fans won't see him don the yellow jersey in the 13th edition of IPL.</p>

<p>While the exact reason of Raina missing IPL 2020 is not yet known, CSK have offered complete support to Raina and his family in their statement.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2020-members-of-chennai-super-kings-contingent-test-positive-for-covid-19-323710" hreflang="en">IPL 2020: Members of Chennai Super Kings contingent test positive for COVID-19</a></strong></p>

<p>"Suresh Raina has returned to India for personal reasons and will be unavailable for the remainder of the IPL season. Chennai Super Kings offers complete support to Suresh and his family during this time," said CSK CEO Kasi Viswanathan via CSK twitter handle on Saturday.</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Suresh Raina has returned to India for personal reasons and will be unavailable for the remainder of the IPL season. Chennai Super Kings offers complete support to Suresh and his family during this time.<br />
<br />
KS Viswanathan<br />
CEO</p>
— Chennai Super Kings (@ChennaiIPL) <a href="https://twitter.com/ChennaiIPL/status/1299582504886775808?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 29, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2020-kkr-and-mi-to-start-training-after-relaxation-of-abu-dhabi-quarantine-norms-323654" hreflang="en">IPL 2020: KKR and MI to start training after relaxation of Abu Dhabi quarantine norms</a></strong></p>

<p>Earlier on Friday, at least 10 members of CSK contingent in Dubai tested positive for COVID-19 and reportedly, it includes one of the names of Indian bowling department in it. While no official confirmation has been provided yet, the entire CSK squad will undergo another COVID-19 test. CSK have also extended their quarantine period by another week after they were scheduled to start practicing of Friday.&nbsp;</p>

<p>On August 15, Raina announced his retirement from international cricket after MS Dhoni called it quits. The duo took to social media platform Instagram to hang their boots.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In IPL,&nbsp;Raina run-getter has amassed 4527 runs from 164 IPL games for CSK. The No.3 batsman featured in 158 consecutive games for CSK&nbsp;before missing his first game in the 2018 season with a calf injury.</p>


Chennai Super Kings on Saturday announced that Suresh Raina will be missing the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 due to personal reasons. The development comes as a huge blow to Chennai Super Kings as Raina has been a force to reckon with in IPL.

Chennai Super Kings on Saturday announced that Suresh Raina will be missing the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 due to personal reasons. The development comes as a huge blow to Chennai Super Kings as Raina has been a force to reckon with in IPL. The southpaw was looking in high spirits and sounded excited for IPL 2020 but unfortunately, fans won't see him don the yellow jersey in the 13th edition of IPL. While the exact reason of Raina missing IPL 2020 is not yet known, CSK have offered complete support to Raina and his family in their statement. ALSO READ: IPL 2020: Members of Chennai Super Kings contingent test positive for COVID-19 "Suresh Raina has returned to India for personal reasons and will be unavailable for the remainder of the IPL season. Chennai Super Kings offers complete support to Suresh and his family during this time," said CSK CEO Kasi Viswanathan via CSK twitter handle on Saturday. Suresh Raina has returned to India for personal reasons and will be unavailable for the remainder of the IPL season. Chennai Super Kings offers complete support to Suresh and his family during this time. KS Viswanathan CEO — Chennai Super Kings (@ChennaiIPL) August 29, 2020 × ALSO READ: IPL 2020: KKR and MI to start training after relaxation of Abu Dhabi quarantine norms Earlier on Friday, at least 10 members of CSK contingent in Dubai tested positive for COVID-19 and reportedly, it includes one of the names of Indian bowling department in it. While no official confirmation has been provided yet, the entire CSK squad will undergo another COVID-19 test. CSK have also extended their quarantine period by another week after they were scheduled to start practicing of Friday. On August 15, Raina announced his retirement from international cricket after MS Dhoni called it quits. The duo took to social media platform Instagram to hang their boots. In IPL, Raina run-getter has amassed 4527 runs from 164 IPL games for CSK. The No.3 batsman featured in 158 consecutive games for CSK before missing his first game in the 2018 season with a calf injury.

Suresh Raina to miss IPL 2020 due to personal reasons

Former captain of Indian cricket team MS Dhoni on Saturday (15 August 2020) hanged his boots from all forms of international cricket. Dhoni took to photo-blogging platform Instagram to post an emotional video as he bid adieu to international cricket in what can be termed as the most Dhoni-esque way of quitting the sport.

Former Indian cricket team captain MS Dhoni retires from international cricket

<p>Suresh Raina on Saturday (August 15 2020) announced his retirement from international cricket moments after MS Dhoni hanged his boots. Raina took to social media platform Instagram to post a message for Dhoni on his retirement as he also announced that he will be joining his Chennai Super Kings skipper in this journey.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"It was nothing but lovely playing with you, @mahi7781 . With my heart full of pride, I choose to join you in this journey. Thank you India. Jai Hind!," Raina wrote on Instagram.&nbsp;</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/CD6d3QChY-V/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="12" style=" background:#FFF; border:0; border-radius:3px; box-shadow:0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width:540px; min-width:326px; padding:0; width:99.375%; width:-webkit-calc(100% - 2px); width:calc(100% - 2px);">
<div style="padding:16px;">
<div style=" display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;">
<div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;">
<div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;">&nbsp;</div>
</div>
</div>

<div style="padding: 19% 0;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style="display:block; height:50px; margin:0 auto 12px; width:50px;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CD6d3QChY-V/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" background:#FFFFFF; line-height:0; padding:0 0; text-align:center; text-decoration:none; width:100%;" target="_blank"><svg height="50px" version="1.1" viewbox="0 0 60 60" width="50px" xmlns="https://www.w3.org/2000/svg" xmlns:xlink="https://www.w3.org/1999/xlink"><g fill="none" fill-rule="evenodd" stroke="none" stroke-width="1"><g fill="#000000" transform="translate(-511.000000, -20.000000)"><g><path d="M556.869,30.41 C554.814,30.41 553.148,32.076 553.148,34.131 C553.148,36.186 554.814,37.852 556.869,37.852 C558.924,37.852 560.59,36.186 560.59,34.131 C560.59,32.076 558.924,30.41 556.869,30.41 M541,60.657 C535.114,60.657 530.342,55.887 530.342,50 C530.342,44.114 535.114,39.342 541,39.342 C546.887,39.342 551.658,44.114 551.658,50 C551.658,55.887 546.887,60.657 541,60.657 M541,33.886 C532.1,33.886 524.886,41.1 524.886,50 C524.886,58.899 532.1,66.113 541,66.113 C549.9,66.113 557.115,58.899 557.115,50 C557.115,41.1 549.9,33.886 541,33.886 M565.378,62.101 C565.244,65.022 564.756,66.606 564.346,67.663 C563.803,69.06 563.154,70.057 562.106,71.106 C561.058,72.155 560.06,72.803 558.662,73.347 C557.607,73.757 556.021,74.244 553.102,74.378 C549.944,74.521 548.997,74.552 541,74.552 C533.003,74.552 532.056,74.521 528.898,74.378 C525.979,74.244 524.393,73.757 523.338,73.347 C521.94,72.803 520.942,72.155 519.894,71.106 C518.846,70.057 518.197,69.06 517.654,67.663 C517.244,66.606 516.755,65.022 516.623,62.101 C516.479,58.943 516.448,57.996 516.448,50 C516.448,42.003 516.479,41.056 516.623,37.899 C516.755,34.978 517.244,33.391 517.654,32.338 C518.197,30.938 518.846,29.942 519.894,28.894 C520.942,27.846 521.94,27.196 523.338,26.654 C524.393,26.244 525.979,25.756 528.898,25.623 C532.057,25.479 533.004,25.448 541,25.448 C548.997,25.448 549.943,25.479 553.102,25.623 C556.021,25.756 557.607,26.244 558.662,26.654 C560.06,27.196 561.058,27.846 562.106,28.894 C563.154,29.942 563.803,30.938 564.346,32.338 C564.756,33.391 565.244,34.978 565.378,37.899 C565.522,41.056 565.552,42.003 565.552,50 C565.552,57.996 565.522,58.943 565.378,62.101 M570.82,37.631 C570.674,34.438 570.167,32.258 569.425,30.349 C568.659,28.377 567.633,26.702 565.965,25.035 C564.297,23.368 562.623,22.342 560.652,21.575 C558.743,20.834 556.562,20.326 553.369,20.18 C550.169,20.033 549.148,20 541,20 C532.853,20 531.831,20.033 528.631,20.18 C525.438,20.326 523.257,20.834 521.349,21.575 C519.376,22.342 517.703,23.368 516.035,25.035 C514.368,26.702 513.342,28.377 512.574,30.349 C511.834,32.258 511.326,34.438 511.181,37.631 C511.035,40.831 511,41.851 511,50 C511,58.147 511.035,59.17 511.181,62.369 C511.326,65.562 511.834,67.743 512.574,69.651 C513.342,71.625 514.368,73.296 516.035,74.965 C517.703,76.634 519.376,77.658 521.349,78.425 C523.257,79.167 525.438,79.673 528.631,79.82 C531.831,79.965 532.853,80.001 541,80.001 C549.148,80.001 550.169,79.965 553.369,79.82 C556.562,79.673 558.743,79.167 560.652,78.425 C562.623,77.658 564.297,76.634 565.965,74.965 C567.633,73.296 568.659,71.625 569.425,69.651 C570.167,67.743 570.674,65.562 570.82,62.369 C570.966,59.17 571,58.147 571,50 C571,41.851 570.966,40.831 570.82,37.631"></path></g></g></g></svg></a></div>

<div style="padding-top: 8px;">
<div style=" color:#3897f0; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:550; line-height:18px;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CD6d3QChY-V/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" background:#FFFFFF; line-height:0; padding:0 0; text-align:center; text-decoration:none; width:100%;" target="_blank">View this post on Instagram</a></div>
</div>

<div style="padding: 12.5% 0;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; margin-bottom: 14px; align-items: center;">
<div>
<div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(0px) translateY(7px);">&nbsp;</div>

<div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; height: 12.5px; transform: rotate(-45deg) translateX(3px) translateY(1px); width: 12.5px; flex-grow: 0; margin-right: 14px; margin-left: 2px;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(9px) translateY(-18px);">&nbsp;</div>
</div>

<div style="margin-left: 8px;">
<div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 20px; width: 20px;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style=" width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 2px solid transparent; border-left: 6px solid #f4f4f4; border-bottom: 2px solid transparent; transform: translateX(16px) translateY(-4px) rotate(30deg)">&nbsp;</div>
</div>

<div style="margin-left: auto;">
<div style=" width: 0px; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-right: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(16px);">&nbsp;</div>

<div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; flex-grow: 0; height: 12px; width: 16px; transform: translateY(-4px);">&nbsp;</div>

<div style=" width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-left: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(-4px) translateX(8px);">&nbsp;</div>
</div>
</div>

<p style=" margin:8px 0 0 0; padding:0 4px;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CD6d3QChY-V/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" color:#000; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none; word-wrap:break-word;" target="_blank">It was nothing but lovely playing with you, @mahi7781 . With my heart full of pride, I choose to join you in this journey. Thank you India. Jai Hind! 🇮🇳</a></p>

<p style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px; margin-bottom:0; margin-top:8px; overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;">A post shared by <a href="https://www.instagram.com/sureshraina3/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px;" target="_blank"> Suresh Raina</a> (@sureshraina3) on <time datetime="2020-08-15T14:36:33+00:00" style=" font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px;">Aug 15, 2020 at 7:36am PDT</time></p>
</div>
</blockquote>
<script async src="//www.instagram.com/embed.js"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ms-dhoni-announces-retirement-from-international-cricket-320826" hreflang="en">MS Dhoni announces retirement from international cricket</a></strong></p>

<p>Raina has been an exemplary servant of the game for Team India as he established himself as one of the potent middle-order batsmen and one of the finest fielders to have played for the Men in Blue.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In 226 ODIs, Raina compiled 5616 runs at an average of 35.31 with five centuries and 36 half-centuries to his name.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In T20Is, the southpaw played 78 matches while scoring 1605 runs with one ton and five centuries as he remains one of the few to have notched a century in all formats of the game.</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">And today marks the completion of '73' years of Indian Independence. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/DhoniRetires?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#DhoniRetires</a> 💔 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RainaRetires?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RainaRetires</a> 💔 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WhistlePodu?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WhistlePodu</a> 🦁🦁</p>
— Chennai Super Kings (@ChennaiIPL) <a href="https://twitter.com/ChennaiIPL/status/1294650738535067650?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 15, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>Raina last played for India&nbsp;on July 17, 2018 against England in the Leeds ODI. Over the course of his career, Dhoni used him as a part-time off-spinner but steadily Raina became a handy wicket-taker off-spinner for the Men in Blue. While he has tried his best to make a comeback to international cricket, national selectors seemed to have moved forward to the next generation. Injuries also didn't help his case.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Like Dhoni, Raina will also continue to take the field for Chennai Super Kings in Indian Premier League and will be seen playing for the three-time IPL winners in the 13th edition of the tournament starting September 19 in the UAE.</p>

<p><b>More to follow...</b></p>


Suresh Raina on Saturday (August 15 2020) announced his retirement from international cricket moments after MS Dhoni hanged his boots. Raina took to social media platform Instagram to post a message for Dhoni on his retirement as he also announced that he will be joining his Chennai Super Kings skipper in this journey.

Suresh Raina on Saturday (August 15 2020) announced his retirement from international cricket moments after MS Dhoni hanged his boots. Raina took to social media platform Instagram to post a message for Dhoni on his retirement as he also announced that he will be joining his Chennai Super Kings skipper in this journey. "It was nothing but lovely playing with you, @mahi7781 . With my heart full of pride, I choose to join you in this journey. Thank you India. Jai Hind!," Raina wrote on Instagram. View this post on Instagram It was nothing but lovely playing with you, @mahi7781 . With my heart full of pride, I choose to join you in this journey. Thank you India. Jai Hind! 🇮🇳 A post shared by Suresh Raina (@sureshraina3) on Aug 15, 2020 at 7:36am PDT × ALSO READ: MS Dhoni announces retirement from international cricket Raina has been an exemplary servant of the game for Team India as he established himself as one of the potent middle-order batsmen and one of the finest fielders to have played for the Men in Blue. In 226 ODIs, Raina compiled 5616 runs at an average of 35.31 with five centuries and 36 half-centuries to his name. In T20Is, the southpaw played 78 matches while scoring 1605 runs with one ton and five centuries as he remains one of the few to have notched a century in all formats of the game. And today marks the completion of '73' years of Indian Independence. #DhoniRetires 💔 #RainaRetires 💔 #WhistlePodu 🦁🦁 — Chennai Super Kings (@ChennaiIPL) August 15, 2020 × Raina last played for India on July 17, 2018 against England in the Leeds ODI. Over the course of his career, Dhoni used him as a part-time off-spinner but steadily Raina became a handy wicket-taker off-spinner for the Men in Blue. While he has tried his best to make a comeback to international cricket, national selectors seemed to have moved forward to the next generation. Injuries also didn't help his case. Like Dhoni, Raina will also continue to take the field for Chennai Super Kings in Indian Premier League and will be seen playing for the three-time IPL winners in the 13th edition of the tournament starting September 19 in the UAE. More to follow...

Suresh Raina announces retirement from international cricket

<p>Veteran Indian batsman Suresh Raina has been pretty vocal about the lack of communication between the national selectors and players as the southpaw said that if any selector has problem regarding something then he should say it on his face rather than being silent on the matter.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Raina, who has been out of the national side for a while now, further said that the selectors didn’t give him any reason behind his exclusion following India’s series against England in 2018, which was his last appearance for the Men in Blue.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/exclusive-fine-with-saliva-ban-matches-behind-closed-doors-as-it-is-for-everyones-safety-navdeep-saini-300955" hreflang="en">Exclusive | Fine with saliva ban, matches behind closed doors as it is for everyone's safety: Navdeep Saini</a></strong></p>

<p>“I feel somewhere communication should have happened, I’ve been saying that. Senior players have supported me, the selection&nbsp;isn’t in my hands. There have been many great selectors, Dilip Vengsarkar supported the players, Kiran More sir, there were many good selectors who used to communicate with players, be it a junior or senior,” Raina told FanCode.</p>

<p>“A selector has a right to tell face to face, I would prefer that because I’ve learnt it from my father and MS Dhoni. You say it on my face, if there’s a problem, I will solve it,” he added.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/england-vs-west-indies-1st-test-likely-for-july-8-confident-tour-will-go-ahead-cwi-ceo-300918" hreflang="en">England vs West Indies 1st Test likely for July 8, confident tour will go ahead: CWI CEO</a></strong></p>

<p>Raina clarified that he doesn’t have any issues with senior players like Virat Kohli or Rohit Sharma but his problem is with selectors as he said that they should be more professional while adding players give their all for the country by working hard and staying away from family and deserve to get answers to these questions.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“Virat told me to improve my fitness, I did it, that’s why he made me play. Rohit always knew my talent. I don’t have any problem with any player, but as a selector, they should be more professional. I am not targetting anyone, I am just saying that sometimes you give so much to the country, you work so hard, stay away from the family, I personally think we should get answers to these questions,” said the left-hander.<br />
&nbsp;</p>


Veteran Indian batsman Suresh Raina has been pretty vocal about the lack of communication between the national selectors and players as the southpaw said that if any selector has problem regarding something then he should say it on his face rather than being silent on the matter.

Veteran Indian batsman Suresh Raina has been pretty vocal about the lack of communication between the national selectors and players as the southpaw said that if any selector has problem regarding something then he should say it on his face rather than being silent on the matter. Raina, who has been out of the national side for a while now, further said that the selectors didn’t give him any reason behind his exclusion following India’s series against England in 2018, which was his last appearance for the Men in Blue. ALSO READ: Exclusive | Fine with saliva ban, matches behind closed doors as it is for everyone's safety: Navdeep Saini “I feel somewhere communication should have happened, I’ve been saying that. Senior players have supported me, the selection isn’t in my hands. There have been many great selectors, Dilip Vengsarkar supported the players, Kiran More sir, there were many good selectors who used to communicate with players, be it a junior or senior,” Raina told FanCode. “A selector has a right to tell face to face, I would prefer that because I’ve learnt it from my father and MS Dhoni. You say it on my face, if there’s a problem, I will solve it,” he added. ALSO READ: England vs West Indies 1st Test likely for July 8, confident tour will go ahead: CWI CEO Raina clarified that he doesn’t have any issues with senior players like Virat Kohli or Rohit Sharma but his problem is with selectors as he said that they should be more professional while adding players give their all for the country by working hard and staying away from family and deserve to get answers to these questions. “Virat told me to improve my fitness, I did it, that’s why he made me play. Rohit always knew my talent. I don’t have any problem with any player, but as a selector, they should be more professional. I am not targetting anyone, I am just saying that sometimes you give so much to the country, you work so hard, stay away from the family, I personally think we should get answers to these questions,” said the left-hander.

If there's a problem, say it on my face: Suresh Raina on selectors not communicating with senior players

<p>Mahendra Singh Dhoni was supposed to make his comeback to the cricket field in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 after last playing for India in the semi-final of ICC World Cup 2019. There was massive anticipation surrounding Dhoni’s return but the COVID-19 pandemic has played a major spoilsport. The entire sporting calendar has been ripped apart with every tournament and events getting either postponed or cancelled.&nbsp;</p>

<p>IPL 2020 was supposed to be the return of Suresh Raina as well, who was training hard for the event after recovering from a long-term injury. Both Dhoni and Raina were sweating it out in the training camp before the outbreak in the country led to lockdown in every state and postponement of the tournament.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/exclusive-idea-of-the-womens-ipl-needs-to-be-deliberated-upon-wv-raman-on-future-of-the-sport-coaching-in-lockdown-t20-wc-and-more-292494" hreflang="en">Exclusive: 'Idea of the Women's IPL needs to be deliberated upon' - WV Raman on future of the sport, coaching in lockdown, T20 WC and more</a></strong></p>

<p>Raina has said that a lot of cricket is still left in Dhoni and the veteran gloveman looked innovating in the nets while adding he was batting brilliantly. Raina further said that Dhoni’s body is showing no signs of ageing and fans are in for a treat whenever the action resumes.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"He was batting really well. Cricket is still left in him. He has looked innovative. We played practice games and those sixes are as big as they were. Three hours of batting in the evening, that too, in Chennai heat is not easy and we did that (during the camp). If you ask me, Mahi bhai is batting brilliantly," Raina told CSK fans during an Instagram Live session.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/in-time-of-no-cricket-rob-moody-keeping-the-game-alive-292479" hreflang="en">In time of no cricket, Rob Moody keeping the game alive</a></strong></p>

<p>"His body is not showing signs of ageing. He was looking different and was trying to do something else, something different, new. So people will get to know when they see him," Raina added. &nbsp;</p>

<p>As uncertainty looms around the future of IPL 2020, the latest reports suggest that the BCCI is looking at a window later in the year given the situation surrounding COVID-19 improves.<br />
&nbsp;</p>


Mahendra Singh Dhoni was supposed to make his comeback to the cricket field in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 after last playing for India in the semi-final of ICC World Cup 2019.

Mahendra Singh Dhoni was supposed to make his comeback to the cricket field in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 after last playing for India in the semi-final of ICC World Cup 2019. There was massive anticipation surrounding Dhoni’s return but the COVID-19 pandemic has played a major spoilsport. The entire sporting calendar has been ripped apart with every tournament and events getting either postponed or cancelled. IPL 2020 was supposed to be the return of Suresh Raina as well, who was training hard for the event after recovering from a long-term injury. Both Dhoni and Raina were sweating it out in the training camp before the outbreak in the country led to lockdown in every state and postponement of the tournament. ALSO READ: Exclusive: 'Idea of the Women's IPL needs to be deliberated upon' - WV Raman on future of the sport, coaching in lockdown, T20 WC and more Raina has said that a lot of cricket is still left in Dhoni and the veteran gloveman looked innovating in the nets while adding he was batting brilliantly. Raina further said that Dhoni’s body is showing no signs of ageing and fans are in for a treat whenever the action resumes. "He was batting really well. Cricket is still left in him. He has looked innovative. We played practice games and those sixes are as big as they were. Three hours of batting in the evening, that too, in Chennai heat is not easy and we did that (during the camp). If you ask me, Mahi bhai is batting brilliantly," Raina told CSK fans during an Instagram Live session. ALSO READ: In time of no cricket, Rob Moody keeping the game alive "His body is not showing signs of ageing. He was looking different and was trying to do something else, something different, new. So people will get to know when they see him," Raina added. As uncertainty looms around the future of IPL 2020, the latest reports suggest that the BCCI is looking at a window later in the year given the situation surrounding COVID-19 improves.

MS Dhoni showing no signs of ageing, lot of cricket still left in him : Suresh Raina

<p class="MsoNormal">Veteran Indian batsman Suresh Raina reckons Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 can wait till the situation surrounding COVID-19 pandemic completely settles down. The stylish southpaw, who has already done his bit to help the Indian government combat the dreaded virus, said ‘life is most important at this point of time’.<o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">Raina, who has been one of the faces of IPL franchise Chennai Super Kings, said that the top-most priority, right now, has to be saving the lives of people who are suffering and dying from the deadly COVID-19 virus while adding that everyone needs to adhere to Indian government’s guidelines on lockdown or else there will be severe consequences.<o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">"Life is most important at this point in time. IPL can surely wait. We all need to follow the government guidelines on lockdown else we all face the consequences. When life gets better, we can think about IPL. So many people are dying at the moment, we need to save lives," Raina told PTI.</p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><o:p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;</strong></o:p><strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-enjoy-batting-with-those-who-can-virat-kohli-names-2-batsmen-he-loves-batting-with-during-instagram-live-with-kevin-pietersen-290378" hreflang="en">'I enjoy batting with those who can...' - Virat Kohli names 2 batsmen he loves batting with during Instagram Live with Kevin Pietersen</a></strong></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">Raina has been extremely active on social media platforms in a bid to spread awareness on the importance of self-isolation and social distancing during the 21-day lockdown period in India. The southpaw has been trying to be the perfect homemaker as his wife, Priyanka Chaudhary Raina, continues to recover from the birth of their second child, Rio, last week. <o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">"I am relaxing in the lockdown, cooking and spending time with the kids. There is so much more to life than cricket, moments like these make you realise that. With this lockdown, people should realise the importance of being down to earth.<o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">"At this time, three meals-a-day matter much more than the size of your house and car, what you wear doesn't matter. What you and your workers in the house are doing is the same. You are eating and feeding them at the same time.</p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><o:p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;</strong></o:p><strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-when-boss-anushka-sharma-hijacked-instagram-live-session-between-kevin-pietersen-and-virat-kohli-290344" hreflang="en">WATCH: When 'Boss' Anushka Sharma hijacked Instagram Live session between Kevin Pietersen and Virat Kohli</a></strong></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">"I am used to cooking since my hostel days, so I enjoy doing that. Wife (who gave birth to a boy last week) and kid are still recovering, so happy to contribute with the household work,” Raina said. <o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">Raina, who was gearing for his comeback to competitive cricket since playing his last match in the final of IPL 2019, said that the preparatory camp conducted by CSK was ‘nice’ while adding that MS Dhoni was looking really good in the nets and had the hunger of a youngster.<o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">"It was a nice camp. I was there for two months but then this happened. Got to spend some time with Dhoni. He was batting so well in the nets, he had the hunger of a youngster. In one session, he batted for three hours at a stretch," recalled Raina.<o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="mso-spacerun:yes">&nbsp;</span><o:p></o:p></p>


Veteran Indian batsman Suresh Raina reckons Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 can wait till the situation surrounding COVID-19 pandemic completely settles down. The stylish southpaw, who has already done his bit to help the Indian government combat the dreaded virus, said ‘life is most important at this point of time’.

Veteran Indian batsman Suresh Raina reckons Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 can wait till the situation surrounding COVID-19 pandemic completely settles down. The stylish southpaw, who has already done his bit to help the Indian government combat the dreaded virus, said ‘life is most important at this point of time’. Raina, who has been one of the faces of IPL franchise Chennai Super Kings, said that the top-most priority, right now, has to be saving the lives of people who are suffering and dying from the deadly COVID-19 virus while adding that everyone needs to adhere to Indian government’s guidelines on lockdown or else there will be severe consequences. "Life is most important at this point in time. IPL can surely wait. We all need to follow the government guidelines on lockdown else we all face the consequences. When life gets better, we can think about IPL. So many people are dying at the moment, we need to save lives," Raina told PTI. ALSO READ: 'I enjoy batting with those who can...' - Virat Kohli names 2 batsmen he loves batting with during Instagram Live with Kevin Pietersen Raina has been extremely active on social media platforms in a bid to spread awareness on the importance of self-isolation and social distancing during the 21-day lockdown period in India. The southpaw has been trying to be the perfect homemaker as his wife, Priyanka Chaudhary Raina, continues to recover from the birth of their second child, Rio, last week. "I am relaxing in the lockdown, cooking and spending time with the kids. There is so much more to life than cricket, moments like these make you realise that. With this lockdown, people should realise the importance of being down to earth. "At this time, three meals-a-day matter much more than the size of your house and car, what you wear doesn't matter. What you and your workers in the house are doing is the same. You are eating and feeding them at the same time. ALSO READ: WATCH: When 'Boss' Anushka Sharma hijacked Instagram Live session between Kevin Pietersen and Virat Kohli "I am used to cooking since my hostel days, so I enjoy doing that. Wife (who gave birth to a boy last week) and kid are still recovering, so happy to contribute with the household work,” Raina said. Raina, who was gearing for his comeback to competitive cricket since playing his last match in the final of IPL 2019, said that the preparatory camp conducted by CSK was ‘nice’ while adding that MS Dhoni was looking really good in the nets and had the hunger of a youngster. "It was a nice camp. I was there for two months but then this happened. Got to spend some time with Dhoni. He was batting so well in the nets, he had the hunger of a youngster. In one session, he batted for three hours at a stretch," recalled Raina.

IPL 2020 can wait as life is most important now, says Suresh Raina

<p>Former Indian skipper MS Dhoni got a grand reception at Chennai ahead of Indian Premier League on Monday.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/ipl/ipl-2020-dhoni-receives-grand-welcome-at-chennai-ahead-of-practice-session-283661">IPL 2020: Dhoni receives grand welcome at Chennai ahead of practice session</a></p>

<p>Earlier on Tuesday, Chennai Super Kings another video of Dhoni receiving his CSK teammate Suresh Raina. Raina is called 'Chinna Thala' by the CSK fans, whereas their captain MS Dhoni is called 'Thala' ( which means chieftain in Tamil).&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/ipl/ipl-2020-chennai-super-kings-csk-squad-schedule-and-players-to-watch-out-for-283228">IPL 2020: Chennai Super Kings' (CSK) squad, schedule and players to watch out for!</a></p>

<p>MS Dhoni will finally return to the ground after a long gap, the last time MS Dhoni played a match was against New Zealand in the semifinals of the 2019 World Cup.&nbsp;</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Me3t and Gree7 - Everyday is Karthigai in our House, a film by Vikraman Sir. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/StartTheWhistles?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#StartTheWhistles</a> 🦁💛 <a href="https://t.co/sJz77Nnakr">pic.twitter.com/sJz77Nnakr</a></p>
— Chennai Super Kings (@ChennaiIPL) <a href="https://twitter.com/ChennaiIPL/status/1234684530864246784?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 3, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>Dhoni was criticised for his slow batting during the tournament. Earlier this year, Dhoni was not enlisted in the BCCI's central contract players' list.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The 38-year-old will lead the Super Kings this year, the first match will be between previous edition's finalists, Chennai Super Kings and Mumbai Indians on March 29.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Dhoni had commenced training with the Jharkhand team some time back, and would also look to get into the groove as he has been away from the game for a while now.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Practice sessions of the Super Kings’ team never failed to attract crowds in thousands in the past, and with Dhoni set for early arrival for preparation similar numbers can be expected this time around as well.</p>


Former Indian skipper MS Dhoni got a grand reception at Chennai ahead of Indian Premier League on Monday. Also read: IPL 2020: Dhoni receives grand welcome at Chennai ahead of practice session Earlier on Tuesday, Chennai Super Kings another video of Dhoni receiving his CSK teammate Suresh Raina.

Former Indian skipper MS Dhoni got a grand reception at Chennai ahead of Indian Premier League on Monday. Also read: IPL 2020: Dhoni receives grand welcome at Chennai ahead of practice session Earlier on Tuesday, Chennai Super Kings another video of Dhoni receiving his CSK teammate Suresh Raina. Raina is called 'Chinna Thala' by the CSK fans, whereas their captain MS Dhoni is called 'Thala' ( which means chieftain in Tamil). Also read: IPL 2020: Chennai Super Kings' (CSK) squad, schedule and players to watch out for! MS Dhoni will finally return to the ground after a long gap, the last time MS Dhoni played a match was against New Zealand in the semifinals of the 2019 World Cup. Me3t and Gree7 - Everyday is Karthigai in our House, a film by Vikraman Sir. #StartTheWhistles 🦁💛 pic.twitter.com/sJz77Nnakr — Chennai Super Kings (@ChennaiIPL) March 3, 2020 × Dhoni was criticised for his slow batting during the tournament. Earlier this year, Dhoni was not enlisted in the BCCI's central contract players' list. The 38-year-old will lead the Super Kings this year, the first match will be between previous edition's finalists, Chennai Super Kings and Mumbai Indians on March 29. Dhoni had commenced training with the Jharkhand team some time back, and would also look to get into the groove as he has been away from the game for a while now. Practice sessions of the Super Kings’ team never failed to attract crowds in thousands in the past, and with Dhoni set for early arrival for preparation similar numbers can be expected this time around as well.

IPL 2020: 'Thala' MS Dhoni greets 'Chinna Tala' Suresh Raina ahead of CSK training session

<p>Wishes continue to pour in as former Indian cricketer <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/yuvraj-singh-a-journey-of-ups-and-downs-226051">Yuvraj Singh</a> on Thursday celebrates his 38th birthday.</p>

<p>Many cricketers took to Twitter to extend birthday wishes for the 'Southpaw' who was the man of the tournament at the<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/throwback-to-icc-cricket-world-cup-2011-india-becomes-first-team-to-win-final-on-home-soil-219190"> ICC World Cup 2011 </a>and played a vital role in India's dream run in the mega event.</p>

<p>"Happy bday Paaji. God bless you. @YUVSTRONG12," Indian skipper Virat Kohli tweeted.</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Happy bday Paaji. God bless you. 😊 <a href="https://twitter.com/YUVSTRONG12?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@YUVSTRONG12</a></p>
— Virat Kohli (@imVkohli) <a href="https://twitter.com/imVkohli/status/1205000662867513344?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 12, 2019</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>"Yuvi Paaji, many many happy returns of the day. Always remain the way you are, lots of love and good luck @YUVSTRONG12," Shikhar Dhawan tweeted.</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Yuvi Paaji, many many happy returns of the day. Always remain the way you are, lots of love and good luck 🤗🎉 <a href="https://twitter.com/YUVSTRONG12?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@YUVSTRONG12</a> <a href="https://t.co/52pbo0CPKw">pic.twitter.com/52pbo0CPKw</a></p>
— Shikhar Dhawan (@SDhawan25) <a href="https://twitter.com/SDhawan25/status/1204990619875237888?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 12, 2019</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>Indian cricketer Suresh Raina called Yuvraj a 'superstar' in his wish.<br />
"Wishing a very happy birthday to superstar @rajinikanth. May you always stay blessed &amp; healthy," Raina tweeted.</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Happy birthday Yuvi pa <a href="https://twitter.com/YUVSTRONG12?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@YUVSTRONG12</a>. Wishing you an incredible year ahead. May you always keep healthy &amp; happy. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/HappyBirthdayYuvi?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#HappyBirthdayYuvi</a> <a href="https://t.co/8ZbqncmOiv">pic.twitter.com/8ZbqncmOiv</a></p>
— Suresh Raina🇮🇳 (@ImRaina) <a href="https://twitter.com/ImRaina/status/1204953532161503232?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 12, 2019</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>"Happy birthday brother @YUVSTRONG12 May Waheguru bless you with all the happiness, love, peace and everything you want," Harbhajan Singh tweeted.</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Happy birthday brother <a href="https://twitter.com/YUVSTRONG12?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@YUVSTRONG12</a> May waheguru bless you with all the happiness,love,peace and everything you want..🤗🤗😘 <a href="https://t.co/3gHK93vCz1">pic.twitter.com/3gHK93vCz1</a></p>
— Harbhajan Turbanator (@harbhajan_singh) <a href="https://twitter.com/harbhajan_singh/status/1204975335210504193?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 12, 2019</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>The 38-year-old announced retirement from all forms of cricket on June 10 this year.</p>

<p>In a career that spanned over 304 ODIs, 58 T20Is, and 40 Tests, Yuvraj imprinted his place in the echelons of cricket as a player who could pretty much win matches for his side either through his electric fielding, deceptive bowling or fierce batting.</p>


Wishes continue to pour in as former Indian cricketer Yuvraj Singh on Thursday celebrates his 38th birthday. Many cricketers took to Twitter to extend birthday wishes for the 'Southpaw' who was the man of the tournament at the ICC World Cup 2011 and played a vital role in India's dream run in the mega event.

Wishes continue to pour in as former Indian cricketer Yuvraj Singh on Thursday celebrates his 38th birthday. Many cricketers took to Twitter to extend birthday wishes for the 'Southpaw' who was the man of the tournament at the ICC World Cup 2011 and played a vital role in India's dream run in the mega event. "Happy bday Paaji. God bless you. @YUVSTRONG12," Indian skipper Virat Kohli tweeted. Happy bday Paaji. God bless you. 😊 @YUVSTRONG12 — Virat Kohli (@imVkohli) December 12, 2019 × "Yuvi Paaji, many many happy returns of the day. Always remain the way you are, lots of love and good luck @YUVSTRONG12," Shikhar Dhawan tweeted. Yuvi Paaji, many many happy returns of the day. Always remain the way you are, lots of love and good luck 🤗🎉 @YUVSTRONG12 pic.twitter.com/52pbo0CPKw — Shikhar Dhawan (@SDhawan25) December 12, 2019 × Indian cricketer Suresh Raina called Yuvraj a 'superstar' in his wish. "Wishing a very happy birthday to superstar @rajinikanth. May you always stay blessed & healthy," Raina tweeted. Happy birthday Yuvi pa @YUVSTRONG12. Wishing you an incredible year ahead. May you always keep healthy & happy. #HappyBirthdayYuvi pic.twitter.com/8ZbqncmOiv — Suresh Raina🇮🇳 (@ImRaina) December 12, 2019 × "Happy birthday brother @YUVSTRONG12 May Waheguru bless you with all the happiness, love, peace and everything you want," Harbhajan Singh tweeted. Happy birthday brother @YUVSTRONG12 May waheguru bless you with all the happiness,love,peace and everything you want..🤗🤗😘 pic.twitter.com/3gHK93vCz1 — Harbhajan Turbanator (@harbhajan_singh) December 12, 2019 × The 38-year-old announced retirement from all forms of cricket on June 10 this year. In a career that spanned over 304 ODIs, 58 T20Is, and 40 Tests, Yuvraj imprinted his place in the echelons of cricket as a player who could pretty much win matches for his side either through his electric fielding, deceptive bowling or fierce batting.

Cricket fraternity wishes Yuvraj Singh on his 38th birthday!

<p>The sheer presence of MS Dhoni on the pitch creates a lot of pressure for opposition teams and it is always difficult to fill the veteran stumper's boots whenever he is not around, said Chennai&nbsp;batsman Suresh Raina.</p>

<p>Dhoni missed two games for Chennai&nbsp;this season against Mumbai&nbsp;and Hyderabad,&nbsp;due to fever and stiff back, and on both occasions, they ended on the losing side.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Besides, Dhoni has been in superb form with the bat this year and hit a 22-ball unbeaten 44 against Delhi&nbsp;to ensure a <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2019-chennai-thrash-delhi-by-huge-80-runs-215174&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjU_aG7rvzhAhXb73MBHXtIBUQQFjABegQIEBAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw1rKE__eF_7Tq-hdAYcT2NG">comfortable 80-run win for Chennai.&nbsp;</a></p>

<p>Asked Raina how challenging it was to lead Chennai&nbsp;in Dhoni's absence, he replied: "I think losing him (Dhoni) as a captain is not an issue, losing him as a batsman is always difficult for us. That's what happened for us against Hyderabad and Mumbai.''&nbsp;</p>

<p>"When he comes to the crease a lot of pressure is created for other teams. When he is not in the team, we see the difference", added Raina.</p>

<p>Raina also hinted that he might take up Chennai&nbsp;captaincy as and when Dhoni decides to call it quits.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"He has done well in the last couple of years as a batsman as well team mentor. So probably you may see me more next year when he is done but I need more of his calibre. But he will continue as long as he wants to play for Chennai, you know him and Chennai," he said.</p>

<p>The left-hander also praised Dhoni's glovework in the light of two brilliant stumpings he had effected on Wednesday night.</p>

<p>"He (Dhoni) had two brilliant stumpings. One is Shreyas (Iyer) and the other is (Chris) Morris. It shows how compact he is. In the last couple of years when he was playing for India also, he has done amazing stumpings that shows how involved he is in the game," Raina said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Raina said it was important to play smart cricket in Chennai. &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>"It is important to play very, very smart cricket in Chennai. The game starts after the sixth over here. In the powerplay, if you see the last two games which we won against Hyderabad and against Delhi here, you can see that we hadn't done well in the first three overs," he said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Watto (Shane Watson) and Faf (du Plessis) played very carefully against (Trent) Boult and (Chris) Morris. It is important to have wickets in Chennai because later when you have hitters like MS (Dhoni), (Ambati) Rayudu and Jadeja, you can score extra 30-40 runs", Raina&nbsp;said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Raina, who became the first fielder to take 100 catches in the IPL on Wednesday night, felt it was a blessing for the team to lose the toss as the wicket was a bit difficult in the second innings when Delhi batted.</p>

<p>"I think it was a blessing for us to lose the toss. The wicket was a bit difficult when they (Delhi) were batting second. The game really set up for us. We kept wickets in hands. In Chennai, we need to put extra 30-40 runs on the board. That's what we did."</p>

<p>Raina said Delhi couldn't capitalise on a good start, adding one needs to plan well against Chennai's lethal spin attack.</p>

<p>"They (Delhi) were very good in the powerplay, but later on they didn't capitalise on their good start. In Chennai, you need to plan really well against our good spinners. You need to rotate really well, otherwise it is going to be difficult with the heat," he said.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, Delhi&nbsp;captain Shreyas Iyer said the defeat was a good reality check for his team ahead of the play-offs.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"After the kind of start we got (52/2 at one stage), we should have at least reached close to the total. It was a reality check for us. We need to assess where we went wrong and come back strongly," he said.</p>

<p>Iyer said Rishabh Pant could have played 'smart' but added he won't ask the left-hander to curb his style.</p>

<p>"He (Pant) has won matches for us earlier in the season. A batsman like him can turn the momentum with one inning. So I wouldn't want to curb his style. I like the way he bats," he said.</p>

<p>Asked about Dhoni's impact, the Delhi captain said,&nbsp;"We can't blame our bowlers because you had an experienced campaigner like Dhoni in the middle. He can change the game from ball one and if he stays till the end, he can take them to a good total. The bowlers too feel the pressure when MS is in the middle."</p>


The sheer presence of MS Dhoni on the pitch creates a lot of pressure for opposition teams and it is always difficult to fill the veteran stumper's boots whenever he is not around, said Chennai batsman Suresh Raina.

The sheer presence of MS Dhoni on the pitch creates a lot of pressure for opposition teams and it is always difficult to fill the veteran stumper's boots whenever he is not around, said Chennai batsman Suresh Raina. Dhoni missed two games for Chennai this season against Mumbai and Hyderabad, due to fever and stiff back, and on both occasions, they ended on the losing side. Besides, Dhoni has been in superb form with the bat this year and hit a 22-ball unbeaten 44 against Delhi to ensure a comfortable 80-run win for Chennai. Asked Raina how challenging it was to lead Chennai in Dhoni's absence, he replied: "I think losing him (Dhoni) as a captain is not an issue, losing him as a batsman is always difficult for us. That's what happened for us against Hyderabad and Mumbai.'' "When he comes to the crease a lot of pressure is created for other teams. When he is not in the team, we see the difference", added Raina. Raina also hinted that he might take up Chennai captaincy as and when Dhoni decides to call it quits. "He has done well in the last couple of years as a batsman as well team mentor. So probably you may see me more next year when he is done but I need more of his calibre. But he will continue as long as he wants to play for Chennai, you know him and Chennai," he said. The left-hander also praised Dhoni's glovework in the light of two brilliant stumpings he had effected on Wednesday night. "He (Dhoni) had two brilliant stumpings. One is Shreyas (Iyer) and the other is (Chris) Morris. It shows how compact he is. In the last couple of years when he was playing for India also, he has done amazing stumpings that shows how involved he is in the game," Raina said. Raina said it was important to play smart cricket in Chennai. "It is important to play very, very smart cricket in Chennai. The game starts after the sixth over here. In the powerplay, if you see the last two games which we won against Hyderabad and against Delhi here, you can see that we hadn't done well in the first three overs," he said. "Watto (Shane Watson) and Faf (du Plessis) played very carefully against (Trent) Boult and (Chris) Morris. It is important to have wickets in Chennai because later when you have hitters like MS (Dhoni), (Ambati) Rayudu and Jadeja, you can score extra 30-40 runs", Raina said. Raina, who became the first fielder to take 100 catches in the IPL on Wednesday night, felt it was a blessing for the team to lose the toss as the wicket was a bit difficult in the second innings when Delhi batted. "I think it was a blessing for us to lose the toss. The wicket was a bit difficult when they (Delhi) were batting second. The game really set up for us. We kept wickets in hands. In Chennai, we need to put extra 30-40 runs on the board. That's what we did." Raina said Delhi couldn't capitalise on a good start, adding one needs to plan well against Chennai's lethal spin attack. "They (Delhi) were very good in the powerplay, but later on they didn't capitalise on their good start. In Chennai, you need to plan really well against our good spinners. You need to rotate really well, otherwise it is going to be difficult with the heat," he said. Meanwhile, Delhi captain Shreyas Iyer said the defeat was a good reality check for his team ahead of the play-offs. "After the kind of start we got (52/2 at one stage), we should have at least reached close to the total. It was a reality check for us. We need to assess where we went wrong and come back strongly," he said. Iyer said Rishabh Pant could have played 'smart' but added he won't ask the left-hander to curb his style. "He (Pant) has won matches for us earlier in the season. A batsman like him can turn the momentum with one inning. So I wouldn't want to curb his style. I like the way he bats," he said. Asked about Dhoni's impact, the Delhi captain said, "We can't blame our bowlers because you had an experienced campaigner like Dhoni in the middle. He can change the game from ball one and if he stays till the end, he can take them to a good total. The bowlers too feel the pressure when MS is in the middle."

Dhoni's presence in the team makes a huge difference, says Suresh Raina

<p>Chennai's regular skipper&nbsp;Mahendra Singh Dhoni has been ruled out of an <a href="https://www.wionews.com/ipl-2019">Indian Premier League</a> game against Mumbai on Friday due to fever. In his absence, Suresh Raina will lead the team at the Chidambaram Stadium.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"MS and Jaddu are not well, they have fever and they will miss today's game," said Raina during the toss.&nbsp;</p>

<p>This is the second time Dhoni has missed a Chennai&nbsp;game this season -- the first being against Hyderabad because of back spasms. Chennai had lost&nbsp;that match.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Thala (Dhoni) missing out a game for the second time this season, this time due to fever!" Chennai team&nbsp;wrote on its Twitter handle.&nbsp;</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Thala?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Thala</a> missing out a game for the second time this season, this time due to fever! 😢</p>
— Chennai Super Kings (@ChennaiIPL) <a href="https://twitter.com/ChennaiIPL/status/1121776158767374338?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 26, 2019</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>This is only the fourth IPL match Dhoni is not playing for Chennai.&nbsp;</p>


Chennai's regular skipper Mahendra Singh Dhoni has been ruled out of an Indian Premier League game against Mumbai on Friday due to fever. In his absence, Suresh Raina will lead the team at the Chidambaram Stadium.

Chennai's regular skipper Mahendra Singh Dhoni has been ruled out of an Indian Premier League game against Mumbai on Friday due to fever. In his absence, Suresh Raina will lead the team at the Chidambaram Stadium. "MS and Jaddu are not well, they have fever and they will miss today's game," said Raina during the toss. This is the second time Dhoni has missed a Chennai game this season -- the first being against Hyderabad because of back spasms. Chennai had lost that match. "Thala (Dhoni) missing out a game for the second time this season, this time due to fever!" Chennai team wrote on its Twitter handle. #Thala missing out a game for the second time this season, this time due to fever! 😢 — Chennai Super Kings (@ChennaiIPL) April 26, 2019 × This is only the fourth IPL match Dhoni is not playing for Chennai.

MS Dhoni ruled out of IPL game against Mumbai

<p>Suresh Raina said that Chennai's regular captain <a href="https://www.wionews.com/search?q=ms+dhoni">Mahendra Singh Dhoni</a> might play the next game against Virat Kohli-led Bangalore on Sunday.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In the absence of Dhoni, Raina led&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2019-clinical-hyderabad-defeat-chennai-by-six-wickets-211280">Chennai's six-wicket defeat</a> by Hyderabad in the Indian Premier League clash on Wednesday.&nbsp;</p>

<p>During the post-match presentation, Raina said, "He (Dhoni) is feeling better. His back was stiff and might play the next game."</p>

<p>Chennai have won seven of its eight matches this season and Raina believes that it was wake up call for the entire team.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"I think it is a very good wake up call."&nbsp;</p>

<p>"I think we didn't put a decent score on the board and kept losing wickets. We lost too many wickets in between and that's why it cost us the game. &nbsp;</p>

<p>"We should have looked for partnerships and should have rotated our strike better. Hence, we were 30 runs short," Raina said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Dhoni was rested after he suffered a back spasm during Chennai's previous game against Dinesh Karthik-led Kolkata team.&nbsp;</p>

<p>It was for the first time in nine years, Chennai played a match with their skipper MS Dhoni. He has played 121 matches in a row before missing the match against Hyderabad.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In the match, Hyderabad displayed a clinical performance to defeat Chennai by six wickets at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium.&nbsp;</p>

<p>With this win, Hyderabad has now moved on to the fifth position in the league standings whereas Chennai are still placed at the pole position.</p>

<p>Chasing a modest total of 133, Hyderabad got off to a flying start as their opener David Warner hammered the visitors for regular boundaries.&nbsp;</p>


Suresh Raina said that Chennai's regular captain Mahendra Singh Dhoni might play the next game against Virat Kohli-led Bangalore on Sunday. In the absence of Dhoni, Raina led Chennai's six-wicket defeat by Hyderabad in the Indian Premier League clash on Wednesday.

Suresh Raina said that Chennai's regular captain Mahendra Singh Dhoni might play the next game against Virat Kohli-led Bangalore on Sunday. In the absence of Dhoni, Raina led Chennai's six-wicket defeat by Hyderabad in the Indian Premier League clash on Wednesday. During the post-match presentation, Raina said, "He (Dhoni) is feeling better. His back was stiff and might play the next game." Chennai have won seven of its eight matches this season and Raina believes that it was wake up call for the entire team. "I think it is a very good wake up call." "I think we didn't put a decent score on the board and kept losing wickets. We lost too many wickets in between and that's why it cost us the game. "We should have looked for partnerships and should have rotated our strike better. Hence, we were 30 runs short," Raina said. Dhoni was rested after he suffered a back spasm during Chennai's previous game against Dinesh Karthik-led Kolkata team. It was for the first time in nine years, Chennai played a match with their skipper MS Dhoni. He has played 121 matches in a row before missing the match against Hyderabad. In the match, Hyderabad displayed a clinical performance to defeat Chennai by six wickets at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium. With this win, Hyderabad has now moved on to the fifth position in the league standings whereas Chennai are still placed at the pole position. Chasing a modest total of 133, Hyderabad got off to a flying start as their opener David Warner hammered the visitors for regular boundaries.

Losing to Hyderabad 'a good wake up call': Suresh Raina

<p>Imran Tahir spun a web before Suresh Raina found his mojo back with a half-century as Chennai inched closer towards another Playoff qualification with a five-wicket victory over Kolkata in an <a href="https://www.wionews.com/ipl-2019">Indian Premier League</a> match on Sunday.&nbsp;</p>

<p>After Tahir's career-best 4 for 27 restricted Kolkata to 161 for 8, Chennai coasted to the target in 19.4 overs as Raina anchored the chase with an unbeaten 58 off 42 balls with seven fours and a six.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Ravindra Jadeja also played an important cameo hitting 31 off 17 balls to pave the way for the team's seventh win in eight games.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Needing 24 runs off the last two overs, Jadeja smashed Harry Gurney for three successive fours to make it just a formality in the last over.&nbsp;</p>

<p>This was the defending champions fourth win on the trot as they consolidated their position atop the table with 14 points and one more win will virtually seal their spot in playoffs whose cut-off over the ears has been 16 points.&nbsp;</p>

<p>This was also their first win at the Eden Gardens since 2013 as they did a double on Kolkata who suffered a hat-trick of defeats for the first time since 2014 and set to slip out of their second place in the table. Incidentally, 161 is their lowest score at the Eden this season.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Kolkata next face Bangalore here on April 19.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Sunil Narine was the pick of Kolkata bowling with figures 2/19 that included a wicket-maiden when he cleaned up Faf du Plessis (24) to end the powerplay.&nbsp;</p>

<p>But Raina held on at the other end with significant partnerships including a 40-run stand with skipper MS Dhoni.&nbsp;</p>

<p>It all seemed a walk in the park for Chennai when Narine gave the biggest breakthrough dismissing Dhoni for 16 with team's score of 121/5, needing 41 runs from 26 balls.&nbsp;</p>

<p>But Raina held his nerves while Jadeja gave the finishing touches. On an Eden Gardens track where spinners had struggled so far, Tahir spun the match in favour of Chennai with his twin double blows in the 11th and 15th overs en route his career-best IPL figures that took him past Kagiso Rabada in the leading wicket-takers' tally.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Tahir removed an ominous-looking Chris Lynn (82 off 51 balls; 7x4, 6x6) and in a space of four balls removed the dangerous Andre Russell (10) for the first time under a score of 40 this season to put brakes on their scoring.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Tahir's bowling had such devastating effect that Kolkata managed just 28 runs from last five overs and went on to lose three more wickets to end up with a below-par total.&nbsp;</p>

<p>But it was a different script for Kolkata early on with a fit-again Lynn giving them a flying start en route to his second fifty this season that came off just 36 balls.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Having missed his team's last match because of flu, Lynn went ballistic against Deepak Chahar who bled 22 runs from his first two overs with the Aussie smashing the seamer for 4-6-4 in the third over.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Such was Lynn's dominance that the otherwise explosive Sunil Narine looked like a spectator at the other end with the Aussie having a share of 31 off 33 runs in the first four overs.&nbsp;</p>

<p>A 200-plus total looked imminent with Lynn looking dangerous and Russell starting to explode with a boundary and a six off Tahir.&nbsp;</p>

<p>But Tahir, aided by some brilliant catching from Faf du Plessis and the substitute Dhruv Shorey, made inroads removing Nitish Rana (21) and Robin Uthappa (0) in space of two balls.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Chennai's catching was exceptional with Du Plessis charging in from long-off to dismiss Uthappa off first ball, then Shradul Thakur at deep square leg clung onto a flat hit from Lynn.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The big one was that of Shorey when he charged in for a swerving low catch to get rid off Russell, who looked in his usual explosive zone with 10 runs from 4 balls (1x4, 1x6).</p>


Imran Tahir spun a web before Suresh Raina found his mojo back with a half-century as Chennai inched closer towards another Playoff qualification with a five-wicket victory over Kolkata in an Indian Premier League match on Sunday.

Imran Tahir spun a web before Suresh Raina found his mojo back with a half-century as Chennai inched closer towards another Playoff qualification with a five-wicket victory over Kolkata in an Indian Premier League match on Sunday. After Tahir's career-best 4 for 27 restricted Kolkata to 161 for 8, Chennai coasted to the target in 19.4 overs as Raina anchored the chase with an unbeaten 58 off 42 balls with seven fours and a six. Ravindra Jadeja also played an important cameo hitting 31 off 17 balls to pave the way for the team's seventh win in eight games. Needing 24 runs off the last two overs, Jadeja smashed Harry Gurney for three successive fours to make it just a formality in the last over. This was the defending champions fourth win on the trot as they consolidated their position atop the table with 14 points and one more win will virtually seal their spot in playoffs whose cut-off over the ears has been 16 points. This was also their first win at the Eden Gardens since 2013 as they did a double on Kolkata who suffered a hat-trick of defeats for the first time since 2014 and set to slip out of their second place in the table. Incidentally, 161 is their lowest score at the Eden this season. Kolkata next face Bangalore here on April 19. Sunil Narine was the pick of Kolkata bowling with figures 2/19 that included a wicket-maiden when he cleaned up Faf du Plessis (24) to end the powerplay. But Raina held on at the other end with significant partnerships including a 40-run stand with skipper MS Dhoni. It all seemed a walk in the park for Chennai when Narine gave the biggest breakthrough dismissing Dhoni for 16 with team's score of 121/5, needing 41 runs from 26 balls. But Raina held his nerves while Jadeja gave the finishing touches. On an Eden Gardens track where spinners had struggled so far, Tahir spun the match in favour of Chennai with his twin double blows in the 11th and 15th overs en route his career-best IPL figures that took him past Kagiso Rabada in the leading wicket-takers' tally. Tahir removed an ominous-looking Chris Lynn (82 off 51 balls; 7x4, 6x6) and in a space of four balls removed the dangerous Andre Russell (10) for the first time under a score of 40 this season to put brakes on their scoring. Tahir's bowling had such devastating effect that Kolkata managed just 28 runs from last five overs and went on to lose three more wickets to end up with a below-par total. But it was a different script for Kolkata early on with a fit-again Lynn giving them a flying start en route to his second fifty this season that came off just 36 balls. Having missed his team's last match because of flu, Lynn went ballistic against Deepak Chahar who bled 22 runs from his first two overs with the Aussie smashing the seamer for 4-6-4 in the third over. Such was Lynn's dominance that the otherwise explosive Sunil Narine looked like a spectator at the other end with the Aussie having a share of 31 off 33 runs in the first four overs. A 200-plus total looked imminent with Lynn looking dangerous and Russell starting to explode with a boundary and a six off Tahir. But Tahir, aided by some brilliant catching from Faf du Plessis and the substitute Dhruv Shorey, made inroads removing Nitish Rana (21) and Robin Uthappa (0) in space of two balls. Chennai's catching was exceptional with Du Plessis charging in from long-off to dismiss Uthappa off first ball, then Shradul Thakur at deep square leg clung onto a flat hit from Lynn. The big one was that of Shorey when he charged in for a swerving low catch to get rid off Russell, who looked in his usual explosive zone with 10 runs from 4 balls (1x4, 1x6).

IPL 2019: Imran Tahir, Suresh Raina ensure easy win for Chennai against Kolkata

<p>A suicide car bomber rammed an explosive-laden Mahindra Scorpio into a bus carrying Indian paramilitary, Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) personnel in Jammu and Kashmir's Pulwama on Thursday.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As per the latest reports, the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/crpf-convoy-attacked-in-jammu-kashmirs-pulwama-death-toll-climbs-to-40-197468">attack left over 40 people dead</a> and injured dozens.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Indian President Ram Nath Kovind condemned the terrorist attack and said the entire nation stands united in the fight against the forces of terror and evil.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The attack took place at around 3.15 pm when the convoy was moving from Jammu to Srinagar, police sources said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/pulwama-terror-attack-condemnation-and-condolences-pour-in-from-across-india-over-killing-of-20-crpf-jawans-197442">entire country is in mourning</a> including the cricket fraternity who took to Twitter to send their condolences to the families of the martyrs.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Former cricketers like Virender Sehwag, VVS Laxman, Gautam Gambhir, Shikhar Dhawan, Suresh Raina and Mohammed Kaif have expressed grief over the attack.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="http://www.wionews.com/cricket/former-cricketer-virender-sehwag-condemns-pulwama-attack-197455">Virender Sehwag tweeted</a> on the incident with a hashtag #SudharJaaoWarnaSudhaarDenge.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He wrote on his Twitter account, "Really pained by the cowardly attack on our CRPF in J&amp;K in which our brave men have been martyred."&nbsp;</p>

<p>"No words are enough to describe the pain.&nbsp; I wish a speedy recovery to those injured," Sehwag added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>This is one of the deadliest attacks in the valley since Uri in September 2016.&nbsp;</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Sad and pained to hear about the dastardly attack on our brave CRPF men in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Pulwama?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Pulwama</a> in which many of our jawans have been martyred . I pray for a quick and speedy recovery of those injured in the attack.</p>
— VVS Laxman (@VVSLaxman281) <a href="https://twitter.com/VVSLaxman281/status/1096034164908982277?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 14, 2019</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>Laxman tweeted, "Sad and pained to hear about the dastardly attack on our brave CRPF men in Pulwama in which many of our jawans have been martyred."&nbsp;</p>

<p>"I pray for a quick and speedy recovery of those injured in the attack," Laxman added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Suresh Raina said, "Appalled and deeply disturbed by the news of CRPF jawans killed in Kashmir's Pulwama. My thoughts and prayers with the martyrs' families."&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Deeply saddened and disturbed by the news. I condemn the terror attack in Pulwama. My condolences to the families of the jawans who sacrificed their lives," read&nbsp;Shikhar Dhawan's tweet. <span style="background-color: rgb(245, 246, 245);">&nbsp;</span></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Deeply saddened and disturbed by the news. I condemn the terror attack in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Pulwama?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Pulwama</a>. My condolences to the families of the jawans who sacrificed their lives.</p>
— Shikhar Dhawan (@SDhawan25) <a href="https://twitter.com/SDhawan25/status/1096050754022850560?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 14, 2019</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>The convoy, comprising 70 buses in which around 2500 personnel were travelling, was targeted in Ladoora area on the new Expressway, CRPF Director General RP Bhatnagar told ANI.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The bus was extensively damaged in the blast which was followed by firing on the vehicle, he said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The cause of the blast is being ascertained, Bhatnagar added. "We suffered damage to the vehicle and men," said a senior CRPF official.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Inspector General of Police (Kashmir) SP Pani told reporters that it was a terror incident and an investigation is being conducted to ascertain the nature of the explosion.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Yes, let’s talk with the separatists. Yes, let’s talk with Pakistan. But this time conversation can’t be on the table, it has to be in a battle ground. Enough is enough. 18 CRPF personnel killed in IED blast on Srinagar-Jammu highway,"&nbsp;Gautam Gambhir tweeted.&nbsp;</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Yes, let’s talk with the separatists. Yes, let’s talk with Pakistan. But this time conversation can’t be on the table, it has to be in a battle ground. Enough is enough. 18 CRPF personnel killed in IED blast on Srinagar-Jammu highway <a href="https://t.co/aa0t0idiHY">https://t.co/aa0t0idiHY</a> via <a href="https://twitter.com/EconomicTimes?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@economictimes</a></p>
— Gautam Gambhir (@GautamGambhir) <a href="https://twitter.com/GautamGambhir/status/1096049537163112448?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 14, 2019</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>"Really pained to hear about the attack on our #CRPF men who have been martyred in the attack in J&amp;K. I pray the coward attackers are taught a lesson at the earliest,"&nbsp;Mohammad Kaif tweeted.</p>


A suicide car bomber rammed an explosive-laden Mahindra Scorpio into a bus carrying Indian paramilitary, Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) personnel in Jammu and Kashmir's Pulwama on Thursday.

A suicide car bomber rammed an explosive-laden Mahindra Scorpio into a bus carrying Indian paramilitary, Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) personnel in Jammu and Kashmir's Pulwama on Thursday. As per the latest reports, the attack left over 40 people dead and injured dozens. Indian President Ram Nath Kovind condemned the terrorist attack and said the entire nation stands united in the fight against the forces of terror and evil. The attack took place at around 3.15 pm when the convoy was moving from Jammu to Srinagar, police sources said. The entire country is in mourning including the cricket fraternity who took to Twitter to send their condolences to the families of the martyrs. Former cricketers like Virender Sehwag, VVS Laxman, Gautam Gambhir, Shikhar Dhawan, Suresh Raina and Mohammed Kaif have expressed grief over the attack. Virender Sehwag tweeted on the incident with a hashtag #SudharJaaoWarnaSudhaarDenge. He wrote on his Twitter account, "Really pained by the cowardly attack on our CRPF in J&K in which our brave men have been martyred." "No words are enough to describe the pain. I wish a speedy recovery to those injured," Sehwag added. This is one of the deadliest attacks in the valley since Uri in September 2016. Sad and pained to hear about the dastardly attack on our brave CRPF men in #Pulwama in which many of our jawans have been martyred . I pray for a quick and speedy recovery of those injured in the attack. — VVS Laxman (@VVSLaxman281) February 14, 2019 × Laxman tweeted, "Sad and pained to hear about the dastardly attack on our brave CRPF men in Pulwama in which many of our jawans have been martyred." "I pray for a quick and speedy recovery of those injured in the attack," Laxman added. Suresh Raina said, "Appalled and deeply disturbed by the news of CRPF jawans killed in Kashmir's Pulwama. My thoughts and prayers with the martyrs' families." "Deeply saddened and disturbed by the news. I condemn the terror attack in Pulwama. My condolences to the families of the jawans who sacrificed their lives," read Shikhar Dhawan's tweet. Deeply saddened and disturbed by the news. I condemn the terror attack in #Pulwama. My condolences to the families of the jawans who sacrificed their lives. — Shikhar Dhawan (@SDhawan25) February 14, 2019 × The convoy, comprising 70 buses in which around 2500 personnel were travelling, was targeted in Ladoora area on the new Expressway, CRPF Director General RP Bhatnagar told ANI. The bus was extensively damaged in the blast which was followed by firing on the vehicle, he said. The cause of the blast is being ascertained, Bhatnagar added. "We suffered damage to the vehicle and men," said a senior CRPF official. Inspector General of Police (Kashmir) SP Pani told reporters that it was a terror incident and an investigation is being conducted to ascertain the nature of the explosion. "Yes, let’s talk with the separatists. Yes, let’s talk with Pakistan. But this time conversation can’t be on the table, it has to be in a battle ground. Enough is enough. 18 CRPF personnel killed in IED blast on Srinagar-Jammu highway," Gautam Gambhir tweeted. Yes, let’s talk with the separatists. Yes, let’s talk with Pakistan. But this time conversation can’t be on the table, it has to be in a battle ground. Enough is enough. 18 CRPF personnel killed in IED blast on Srinagar-Jammu highway https://t.co/aa0t0idiHY via @economictimes — Gautam Gambhir (@GautamGambhir) February 14, 2019 × "Really pained to hear about the attack on our #CRPF men who have been martyred in the attack in J&K. I pray the coward attackers are taught a lesson at the earliest," Mohammad Kaif tweeted.

Cricket fraternity condemn terrorist attack on CRPF convoy in Jammu & Kashmir's Pulwama

<p>Chennai have reached the finals after defeating Hyderabad in the Qualifier 1 of the ongoing edition of Indian Premier League under the guidance of legendary cricketer MS Dhoni.</p>

<p>"Yellow Brigade" have marked a comeback after serving a two-year ban and emerged as one of the top contenders for the IPL trophy.</p>

<p>Two-time winners Chennai team is preparing for the final encounter which is scheduled to be played on May 27 to reclaim the trophy one more time, Suresh Raina has said that the team would like to win this year's IPL for their skipper MS Dhoni.</p>

<p>Raina was quoted as saying by the Chennai's website, Raina said, "He (Dhoni) got quite emotional (when the team reached the final this time). He cares so much for Chennai we all do. He has been amazing for Chennai since 2008 and is one of the nicest guys around. So this time, we want to win the IPL for Dhoni."</p>

<p>"He gets criticised so often and every time (he) answers his critics back through his performance. Sometimes you need to see it from an emotional side as well. We definitely have a team which can win it for MS this time. You need to do something (special) everytime he turns up and that is the reason we want to win the IPL for Dhoni," he further added.</p>

<p>"I remember reading somewhere after the auction that Chennai team is a bunch of old guys. But it is all about experience and how well you use it. Our unit is very confident right now. This season we batted as a group. Shane Watson and Ambati Rayudu gave us good starts and then myself, followed by MS have been doing well. So if you see our team is so experienced and has so many match winners in it. We haven’t won the title since 2011 so I really want to do it this time," Raina concluded.</p>


'I remember reading somewhere after the auction that Chennai team is a bunch of old guys. But it is all about experience and how well you use it,' says Suresh Raina

Chennai have reached the finals after defeating Hyderabad in the Qualifier 1 of the ongoing edition of Indian Premier League under the guidance of legendary cricketer MS Dhoni. "Yellow Brigade" have marked a comeback after serving a two-year ban and emerged as one of the top contenders for the IPL trophy. Two-time winners Chennai team is preparing for the final encounter which is scheduled to be played on May 27 to reclaim the trophy one more time, Suresh Raina has said that the team would like to win this year's IPL for their skipper MS Dhoni. Raina was quoted as saying by the Chennai's website, Raina said, "He (Dhoni) got quite emotional (when the team reached the final this time). He cares so much for Chennai we all do. He has been amazing for Chennai since 2008 and is one of the nicest guys around. So this time, we want to win the IPL for Dhoni." "He gets criticised so often and every time (he) answers his critics back through his performance. Sometimes you need to see it from an emotional side as well. We definitely have a team which can win it for MS this time. You need to do something (special) everytime he turns up and that is the reason we want to win the IPL for Dhoni," he further added. "I remember reading somewhere after the auction that Chennai team is a bunch of old guys. But it is all about experience and how well you use it. Our unit is very confident right now. This season we batted as a group. Shane Watson and Ambati Rayudu gave us good starts and then myself, followed by MS have been doing well. So if you see our team is so experienced and has so many match winners in it. We haven’t won the title since 2011 so I really want to do it this time," Raina concluded.

We want to win IPL 2018 for Dhoni - Suresh Raina

<p>Faf du Plessis' unbeaten 67-run knock helped Chennai team to reach the finals of the eleventh edition of Indian Premier League. Chennai won the first Qualifier by two wickets in a neck-to-neck encounter against Hyderabad. There was a moment when Chennai was 62-6 but South African star batsman Faf du Plessis played a responsible innings and snatched the match from the hands of Hyderabad.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Shardul Thakur's 15-run knock off 5 balls did the icing on the cake and confirmed the victory. Earlier in the match, MS Dhoni had won the toss and opted to bowl at the Wankhede stadium.</p>

<p>Batting first, Hyderabad had a shaky start as Hyderabad team suffered an early jolt in the form of Shikhar Dhawan's wicket on the first ball of the innings but thanks to Windies player Carlos Brathwaite, who played a 43-run knock to help Hyderabad team to set a decent target of 140 runs for MS Dhoni-led Chennai.</p>

<p>Still, the score is a bit less than what it was expected in such a crucial match and that too for a team whose batting unit is massive.</p>

<p>That is what exactly happened but while chasing the target of 140 runs, Chennai's batting line was thrashed in front of the Hyderabad's bowling unit but in the 17th and 18th overs, Hyderabad leaked too many runs.</p>

<p>Apart from Faf du Plessis, Suresh Raina and Shardul Thakur none of the batsmen score more than 10 runs.</p>

<p><strong>Chennai's scoreboard</strong></p>

<p>Shane Watson 0, Faf du Plessis 67*, Suresh Raina 22, Ambati Rayudu 0, MS Dhoni 9, Dwayne Bravo 7, Ravindra Jadeja 3, Deepak Chahar 10, Harbhajan Singh 2, Shardul Thakur 15</p>

<p>For Hyderabad, Sandeep Sharma, Siddarth Kaul and Rashid Khan took 2 wickets each that gave a ray of finale hope but efforts went in vain.</p>

<p>Apart from them, Bhuvneshwar Kumar was the most economical bowler for the Hyderabad. He gave 14 runs in his 3.1-over spell with 4.42 ecomnomy. Although, he failed to defend the six runs in &nbsp;the last over as Faf hit a splendid six on the first ball of last over to win the match.</p>

<p>Earlier, Deepak Chahar who dismissed Dhawan played an important role in restricting the Hyderabad team. He gave 31 runs in his 4-over spell and took the most impost wicket also of Shikhar Dhawan.</p>

<p>Shreevats Goswami and Manish Pandey scored 12 and 8 runs respectively before losing their wickets to Lungi Ngidi and Ravindra Jadeja.</p>

<p>Skipper Kane Williamson tried to push the run rate but lost his wicket to Shardul Thakur after scoring 24 runs.</p>

<p>Shakib Al Hasan and Yusuf Pathan scored 12 and 24 runs for the team but Dwayne Bravo out bowled both of batsmen.</p>

<p>Carlos Brathwaite salvaged the team as he scored 43 runs off just 29 balls in a very crucial time.<br />
&nbsp;</p>


Faf du Plessis' unbeaten 67-run knock helped Chennai team to reach the finals of the eleventh edition of Indian Premier League

Faf du Plessis' unbeaten 67-run knock helped Chennai team to reach the finals of the eleventh edition of Indian Premier League. Chennai won the first Qualifier by two wickets in a neck-to-neck encounter against Hyderabad. There was a moment when Chennai was 62-6 but South African star batsman Faf du Plessis played a responsible innings and snatched the match from the hands of Hyderabad. Shardul Thakur's 15-run knock off 5 balls did the icing on the cake and confirmed the victory. Earlier in the match, MS Dhoni had won the toss and opted to bowl at the Wankhede stadium. Batting first, Hyderabad had a shaky start as Hyderabad team suffered an early jolt in the form of Shikhar Dhawan's wicket on the first ball of the innings but thanks to Windies player Carlos Brathwaite, who played a 43-run knock to help Hyderabad team to set a decent target of 140 runs for MS Dhoni-led Chennai. Still, the score is a bit less than what it was expected in such a crucial match and that too for a team whose batting unit is massive. That is what exactly happened but while chasing the target of 140 runs, Chennai's batting line was thrashed in front of the Hyderabad's bowling unit but in the 17th and 18th overs, Hyderabad leaked too many runs. Apart from Faf du Plessis, Suresh Raina and Shardul Thakur none of the batsmen score more than 10 runs. Chennai's scoreboard Shane Watson 0, Faf du Plessis 67*, Suresh Raina 22, Ambati Rayudu 0, MS Dhoni 9, Dwayne Bravo 7, Ravindra Jadeja 3, Deepak Chahar 10, Harbhajan Singh 2, Shardul Thakur 15 For Hyderabad, Sandeep Sharma, Siddarth Kaul and Rashid Khan took 2 wickets each that gave a ray of finale hope but efforts went in vain. Apart from them, Bhuvneshwar Kumar was the most economical bowler for the Hyderabad. He gave 14 runs in his 3.1-over spell with 4.42 ecomnomy. Although, he failed to defend the six runs in the last over as Faf hit a splendid six on the first ball of last over to win the match. Earlier, Deepak Chahar who dismissed Dhawan played an important role in restricting the Hyderabad team. He gave 31 runs in his 4-over spell and took the most impost wicket also of Shikhar Dhawan. Shreevats Goswami and Manish Pandey scored 12 and 8 runs respectively before losing their wickets to Lungi Ngidi and Ravindra Jadeja. Skipper Kane Williamson tried to push the run rate but lost his wicket to Shardul Thakur after scoring 24 runs. Shakib Al Hasan and Yusuf Pathan scored 12 and 24 runs for the team but Dwayne Bravo out bowled both of batsmen. Carlos Brathwaite salvaged the team as he scored 43 runs off just 29 balls in a very crucial time.

Faf du Plessis shines as Chennai beat Hyderabad to reach IPL final

<p>There are more bad moments than good in a cricket match but what differentiates the two is how well and soon you make a comeback.</p>

<p>As the Indian Premier League (IPL) enters its last week, the first qualifier will be played between the two best teams of the seasons, Hyderabad and Chennai. &nbsp;<br />
Both are the top two teams on points table following the conclusion of the league stage and it grants them two shots to make it to the final.</p>

<p>The winner today will stay in Mumbai while the loser goes to Kolkata, with the hope of making it back to Wankhede.</p>

<p>The intriguing fact of the game today are the skippers - Mahendra Singh Dhoni and Kane Williamson. The qualifier 1 is not just limited to these two names, it is more than that.</p>

<p>It is ‘best defenders vs best chasers’. &nbsp;</p>

<p>However, the chasers have been inconsistent in comparison to the defenders, and this is exactly what makes them a week team today.&nbsp; And the worst part, Hyderabad know it.</p>

<p>Dhoni-led Chennai which returned to the fray after serving out a two-year suspension, started its campaign by registering one-wicket win against defending champions Mumbai.</p>

<p>However, the credit goes to a single player - Dwayne Bravo. His 30-ball 68 was the only reason why the 'Yellow Brigade' won. &nbsp;</p>

<p>With openers falling cheaply the middle and lower order failed to provide any momentum and gave away their wickets. And this problem still exists when they enter the qualifiers today.</p>

<p>Whenever Shane Watson and Ambati Rayudu have fallen cheaply, Chennai’s middle-order hasn’t shown the ability to withstand the pressure and in the end has left too much for Dhoni to do on his own.</p>

<p>Though Suresh Raina has done well in patches, his strike rate hasn’t been great.&nbsp; Sam Billings, too, barring a match-winning knock against Kolkata, hasn’t had much of an impact.</p>

<p>Another problem which adds to Dhoni's woes is absence of a death-over specialist.</p>

<p>Dhoni is worried with his bowlers leaking too many runs in the last few overs. Lack of options has seen Dhoni handing over the ball to different bowlers. But as the tournament progressed Bravo came out to be better while others completely struggled.</p>

<p>Chennai’s worry list also includes senior players - Harbhajan Singh and Ravindra Jadeja. Though both have done well in containing the opposition but haven’t impressed with the wickets.</p>

<p>In 14 games played, Jadeja clinched only 9 wickets and made just 86 runs, while Singh has 7 wickets to his name in 12 games and only 27 runs contribution. The best part about Chennai is they have never been dependent on a single batsman or bowler, but the inconsistency factor will be major trouble for the team. &nbsp;</p>

<p>But, no matter what happens today, the loser gets another opportunity in qualifier-2 at the Eden Gardens, Kolkata on May 25.</p>

<p><em>(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)</em></p>


Today's game is ‘best defenders vs best chasers’

There are more bad moments than good in a cricket match but what differentiates the two is how well and soon you make a comeback. As the Indian Premier League (IPL) enters its last week, the first qualifier will be played between the two best teams of the seasons, Hyderabad and Chennai. Both are the top two teams on points table following the conclusion of the league stage and it grants them two shots to make it to the final. The winner today will stay in Mumbai while the loser goes to Kolkata, with the hope of making it back to Wankhede. The intriguing fact of the game today are the skippers - Mahendra Singh Dhoni and Kane Williamson. The qualifier 1 is not just limited to these two names, it is more than that. It is ‘best defenders vs best chasers’. However, the chasers have been inconsistent in comparison to the defenders, and this is exactly what makes them a week team today. And the worst part, Hyderabad know it. Dhoni-led Chennai which returned to the fray after serving out a two-year suspension, started its campaign by registering one-wicket win against defending champions Mumbai. However, the credit goes to a single player - Dwayne Bravo. His 30-ball 68 was the only reason why the 'Yellow Brigade' won. With openers falling cheaply the middle and lower order failed to provide any momentum and gave away their wickets. And this problem still exists when they enter the qualifiers today. Whenever Shane Watson and Ambati Rayudu have fallen cheaply, Chennai’s middle-order hasn’t shown the ability to withstand the pressure and in the end has left too much for Dhoni to do on his own. Though Suresh Raina has done well in patches, his strike rate hasn’t been great. Sam Billings, too, barring a match-winning knock against Kolkata, hasn’t had much of an impact. Another problem which adds to Dhoni's woes is absence of a death-over specialist. Dhoni is worried with his bowlers leaking too many runs in the last few overs. Lack of options has seen Dhoni handing over the ball to different bowlers. But as the tournament progressed Bravo came out to be better while others completely struggled. Chennai’s worry list also includes senior players - Harbhajan Singh and Ravindra Jadeja. Though both have done well in containing the opposition but haven’t impressed with the wickets. In 14 games played, Jadeja clinched only 9 wickets and made just 86 runs, while Singh has 7 wickets to his name in 12 games and only 27 runs contribution. The best part about Chennai is they have never been dependent on a single batsman or bowler, but the inconsistency factor will be major trouble for the team. But, no matter what happens today, the loser gets another opportunity in qualifier-2 at the Eden Gardens, Kolkata on May 25. (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Opinion: Why MS Dhoni-led Chennai will lose against Hyderabad in IPL Qualifier 1

<p>MS Dhoni-led Chennai has reached the finals of the eleventh edition of Indian Premier League as batsman Faf du Plessis' unbeaten 67-run knock helped Chennai team to defeat Hyderabad by two wickets in the first Qualifier match on Tuesday at Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai.</p>

<p>There was a moment when Chennai was 62-6 but South African star batsman Faf du Plessis played a responsible innings and snatched the match from the hands of Hyderabad.&nbsp;</p>

<p>For his splendid batting at a crucial time, Faf was given "Player of the Match" award.</p>

<p>"It's nice to make a contribution tonight. I reflected on the games I've played here in Mumbai. It's a stadium I've enjoyed playing," said South African batsman Faf du Plessis.</p>

<p>He also added that he shocked that how the team "win that game."</p>

<p>He praised the bowling attack of Hyderabad's team with a special mention to spinner Rashid Khan.</p>

<p>Although, du Plessis' 67-run knock was the sole reason for Chennai's victory but Shardul Thakur's 15-run knock off 5 balls did the icing on the cake and confirmed the victory. Earlier in the match, MS Dhoni had won the toss and opted to bowl.</p>


Faf du Plessis' unbeaten 67-run knock helped Chennai team to defeat Hyderabad by two wickets in the first Qualifier match

MS Dhoni-led Chennai has reached the finals of the eleventh edition of Indian Premier League as batsman Faf du Plessis' unbeaten 67-run knock helped Chennai team to defeat Hyderabad by two wickets in the first Qualifier match on Tuesday at Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai. There was a moment when Chennai was 62-6 but South African star batsman Faf du Plessis played a responsible innings and snatched the match from the hands of Hyderabad. For his splendid batting at a crucial time, Faf was given "Player of the Match" award. "It's nice to make a contribution tonight. I reflected on the games I've played here in Mumbai. It's a stadium I've enjoyed playing," said South African batsman Faf du Plessis. He also added that he shocked that how the team "win that game." He praised the bowling attack of Hyderabad's team with a special mention to spinner Rashid Khan. Although, du Plessis' 67-run knock was the sole reason for Chennai's victory but Shardul Thakur's 15-run knock off 5 balls did the icing on the cake and confirmed the victory. Earlier in the match, MS Dhoni had won the toss and opted to bowl.

Don't know how we 'win that game', says Faf du Plessis after Chennai reach IPL final

<p>Hyderabad set a 140-run target for Chennai team in the first Qualifier of Indian Premier League 2018.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The score is a bit less than what it was expected in such crucial matches and that too for a team whose batting unit is massive.</p>

<p>Hyderabad team suffered an early jolt in the form of Shikhar Dhawan's wicket on the first ball of the innings but thanks to Windies player Carlos Brathwaite, who played a 43-run knock to help Hyderabad team to set a decent target for MS Dhoni-led Chennai.</p>

<p>On the other hand, Deepak Chahar who dismissed Dhawan played an important role in restricting the Hyderabad team. He gave 31 runs in his 4-over spell and took the most impost wicket also of Shikhar Dhawan.</p>

<p>Shreevats Goswami and Manish Pandey scored 12 and 8 runs respectively before losing their wickets to Lungi Ngidi and Ravindra Jadeja.</p>

<p>Skipper Kane Williamson tried to push the run rate but lost his wicket to Shardul Thakur after scoring 24 runs.</p>

<p>Shakib Al Hasan and Yusuf Pathan scored 12 and 24 runs for the team but Dwayne Bravo out bowled both of batsmen.</p>

<p>Carlos Brathwaite salvaged the team as he scored 43 runs off just 29 balls in a very crucial time.</p>


Hyderabad team suffered an early jolt in the form of Shikhar Dhawan's wicket on the first ball of the innings but thanks to Windies player Carlos Brathwaite, who played a 43-run knock to help Hyderabad team to set a decent target for MS Dhoni-led Chennai

Hyderabad set a 140-run target for Chennai team in the first Qualifier of Indian Premier League 2018. The score is a bit less than what it was expected in such crucial matches and that too for a team whose batting unit is massive. Hyderabad team suffered an early jolt in the form of Shikhar Dhawan's wicket on the first ball of the innings but thanks to Windies player Carlos Brathwaite, who played a 43-run knock to help Hyderabad team to set a decent target for MS Dhoni-led Chennai. On the other hand, Deepak Chahar who dismissed Dhawan played an important role in restricting the Hyderabad team. He gave 31 runs in his 4-over spell and took the most impost wicket also of Shikhar Dhawan. Shreevats Goswami and Manish Pandey scored 12 and 8 runs respectively before losing their wickets to Lungi Ngidi and Ravindra Jadeja. Skipper Kane Williamson tried to push the run rate but lost his wicket to Shardul Thakur after scoring 24 runs. Shakib Al Hasan and Yusuf Pathan scored 12 and 24 runs for the team but Dwayne Bravo out bowled both of batsmen. Carlos Brathwaite salvaged the team as he scored 43 runs off just 29 balls in a very crucial time.

IPL 2018: MS Dhoni-led Chennai restricts Hyderabad to 139 runs in 1st Qualifier

suresh-raina

Suresh Raina, News on Suresh Raina, stories on Suresh Raina, articles on Suresh Raina, Suresh Raina stories at Wion, Suresh Raina news, Suresh Raina latest news

suresh raina

IPL 2020: Rohit Sharma nears many incredible records as he faces Rajasthan Royals

Will CSK fans see Suresh Raina in IPL 2020? CSK CEO gives an update

From R Ashwin to Vishwanathan Anand: Sporting fraternity pays tribute to SP Balasubrahmanyam

CSK will still go forward in IPL 2020 without me or Suresh : Harbhajan Singh

IPL 2020: MS Dhoni on the verge of surpassing Suresh Raina's record

Virat Kohli, Sakshi Malik lead sports fraternity's birthday wishes for PM Narendra Modi

'Truly appreciate the efforts': Suresh Raina reacts as Punjab police arrest 3 for murder of his relatives

'He is determined': K Srikkanth believes a batsman in CSK squad can succeed in IPL 2020

IPL 13: Who should replace Suresh Raina in CSK playing XI? Scott Styris opines

IPL 2020: Suresh Raina reveals reason behind leaving CSK camp, gives hint of a comeback

Suresh Raina opens up for first time since leaving Chennai Super Kings camp

End of road for Suresh Raina in CSK?

IPL 2020: Suresh Raina's exit due to rift over hotel room? N Srinivasan says 'sometimes success gets into head'

IPL 2020: Suresh Raina's exit due to rift over hotel room? N Srinivasan says 'sometimes success gets into head'

Suresh Raina to miss IPL 2020 due to personal reasons

Former Indian cricket team captain MS Dhoni retires from international cricket

Suresh Raina announces retirement from international cricket

If there's a problem, say it on my face: Suresh Raina on selectors not communicating with senior players

MS Dhoni showing no signs of ageing, lot of cricket still left in him : Suresh Raina

IPL 2020 can wait as life is most important now, says Suresh Raina

IPL 2020: 'Thala' MS Dhoni greets 'Chinna Tala' Suresh Raina ahead of CSK training session

Cricket fraternity wishes Yuvraj Singh on his 38th birthday!

Dhoni's presence in the team makes a huge difference, says Suresh Raina

MS Dhoni ruled out of IPL game against Mumbai