Former Indian cricketer Suresh Raina has backed MS Dhoni to bat at No. 3 position for Chennai Super Kings in IPL 2020. The spot is left vacant after Raina decided to withdraw from the event due to personal reasons.
He is arguably the toughest player to replace in Chennai’s batting line up. Raina has been their talisman with the bat for well over a decade now. However, the southpaw believes Dhoni has the ability and flexibility to play at No. 3 position for the franchise this season.
“He has the experience to bat at that position. How can one forget Dhoni’s 148 against Pakistan in the second ODI at Visakhapatnam in April 2005,” said Raina.
The 39-year old has always played a variety of roles for Indian cricket over the past 15 years. He has opened the innings as well as played at No.8 based on match situations. MS Dhoni definitely has one of the brightest minds in cricketing world. He can surely adopt and adapt to the circumstances for a No. 3 positioned batsman.
Raina thinks MS Dhoni still has the ability to “win a match single-handedly and can change the course of a match anytime.”
“It’s a very crucial position and the No. 3 position will give Dhoni more flexibility,” said Raina.
Meanwhile, there are lot of rumors going on social media about Ruturaj Gaikwad. Although the youngster is currently under isolation after getting tested for covid, the team management believes he is the ideal candidate to replace Raina.
Raina also spoke highly of Ruturaj and thinks he is definitely a future player for Chennai Super Kings.
“I liked his attitude and (he) was batting very well in the nets. Ruturaj is a brilliant player and someone for the future for sure,” Raina said.
Suresh Raina Hints At IPL 2020 Comeback
The 33-year old has not yet given up on idea of completely abandoning IPL 2020. He hinted that he could be back in Dubai if things turn out fine.
Chennai Super Kings’ fans will be absolutely thrilled to see their chinna thala don the yellow jersey in IPL 2020. He could be an X-factor for CSK in the fag end of the tournament.
“I am training every day and keeping myself fit and ready. Let the schedule come out first and if things are fine, I may go back,” he said.
Suresh Raina has cleared the air between himself and the board. He is one of the greatest players in IPL history and has played huge role in CSK’s success all these years.
He is also their most capped player. But things did not look okay when Raina returned back to India. Srinivasan made some harsh comments on the superstar. However, Raina later revealed that Srinivasan is like a father figure to him and they came over the misunderstandings.
