One of the biggest surprises before the start of IPL 2020 was Suresh Raina’s decision to pull out of the tournament. Known as Mr. IPL, Raina’s absence was not only a blow for CSK but also the fans of the competition.
When further research was done regarding the reason behind this decision, rumors came out that all was not well between Raina and the CSK management. A few careless comments of N Srinivasan added more fuel to the rumors. However, Raina was quick to douse the fire by calling N Srinivasan a ‘father figure’ and also put a full stop by supporting CSK full-throttle on social media.
That said, it still is not clear if CSK would retain Raina for the upcoming seasons. However, in this article, we give you five reasons why the franchise must persist with its best batsman for the upcoming editions.
1. A Potential Captaincy Candidate
If not for his absence in IPL 2020, Raina would have been the automatic replacement for MSD as the team’s captain. However, at the moment, the odds are in favor of the likes of Faf du Plessis and Kane Williamson (if they buy him). That said, we still feel CSK must go with Raina. He has been in the franchise for as long as MSD and knows the working of the franchise very well. Moreover, Raina is himself an IPL veteran and is the best possible option to take the armband. Even if the management decides against it, they can at least have Raina for his leadership skills.
2. Experience To The Line-Up
The retirement of Shane Watson would be a big blow for CSK. Also, with the team likely to use Ruturaj Gaikwad as the opener, there is a necessity for some experience at the top. Raina is a brilliant choice to fill this role. As mentioned earlier, Raina has been through thick and thin in IPL, and any team would love to have his experience. We have seen the likes of Mumbai Indians succeed with experience and in 2018, CSK themselves had set an example. Hence, Raina must stay with CSK for future editions.
3. A Way To Appease The Fanbase
Fondly known as Chinna Thala, Suresh Raina is a big name in the fanbase. After MSD, he is the second-most popular member of the squad. Now, if Dhoni retires, this aspect would take a big beating. To avoid it, or at least to make sure it does not go worse, CSK must retain Suresh Raina. This way, the long-time fans of CSK would have at least one member in the XI whom they can associate with. While some newer members may not be backed fully if they fail for a few games, Raina would get full support from the fanbase. This will also help his confidence and form.
4. A Solid Left-Hander In The Top-Order
All the four teams that qualified for the playoffs of IPL 2020 had a left-hander at the top. Apart from Sam Curran, who was used as a floater, CSK never had a left-hander in the top-order this season. The solution is simple. If Raina comes into the XI, along with the experience, he will also hand a strategic and technical advantage to the team. Like in UAE, if there are short boundaries on one side and longer ones on the other, having a left-right combination can make sure you stay in the game all the time.
5. To Dismiss All Rumors
This, we feel, must be the biggest motivator for CSK to retain Suresh Raina. There are far too many rumors floating around, and for the health of the franchise, Raina needs to come back. Thus, a full stop can be set, and the focus would firmly shift back to the on-field performances. The moral of the squad-members would also be lifted this way.
