Suresh Raina, often referred to as Mr. IPL, is the fifth-highest run-scorer in IPL history. He has accumulated 5,528 runs in 205 matches, with an average of 32.51 and a strike rate of 136.73.

The Indian Premier League (IPL) has seen many talented players who have made a significant impact. Some of the top players include:

Virat Kohli, the leading run-scorer in IPL history, has been a key player for the Royal Challengers Bangalore.
Rohit Sharma has led the Mumbai Indians to five championships with his impressive batting and leadership skills.
Lasith Malinga, a fast bowler from Sri Lanka, is celebrated for his wicket-taking abilities and is one of the greatest bowlers in IPL history.
MS Dhoni is renowned as the best captain in IPL history for his strategic thinking and finishing skills.
Chris Gayle, known as the “Universe Boss,” entertained fans with his explosive batting and ability to change games single-handedly.

However, Suresh Raina stands out as a deserving candidate for the title “Mr. IPL.” Here’s why.

Suresh Raina’s IPL Performance Overview

Year	Matches	Not Outs	Runs	Highest Score	Average	Balls Faced	Strike Rate	100	50	4s	6s
2008	16	3	421	55*	38.27	296	142.22	0	3	35	18
2009	14	0	434	98	31.00	308	140.90	0	2	37	21
2010	16	5	520	83*	47.27	364	142.85	0	4	45	22
2011	16	2	438	73*	31.28	325	134.76	0	4	36	17
2012	19	1	441	73	25.94	325	135.69	0	1	36	19
2013	18	4	548	100*	42.15	365	150.13	1	4	50	18
2014	16	3	523	87	40.23	358	146.08	0	5	51	19
2015	17	2	374	62	24.93	304	123.02	0	2	31	16
2016	15	1	399	75	28.50	312	127.88	0	3	39	10
2017	14	3	442	84	40.18	307	143.97	0	3	42	13
2018	15	3	445	75*	37.08	336	132.44	0	4	46	12
2019	17	1	383	59	23.93	314	121.97	0	3	45	9
2021	12	2	160	54	17.77	128	125.00	0	1	13	9
Career Total	205	30	5528	100*	32.52	4042	136.76	1	39	506	203

Reasons Suresh Raina is “Mr. IPL”

Consistency with Batting

Raina’s impressive batting record is a key reason for his title as Mr. IPL. With 5,528 runs in 205 matches, he boasts a strike rate of 136.73. He joined the Chennai Super Kings in the inaugural IPL season for Rs 2.6 crore and quickly made his mark by scoring 421 runs in his debut season. Over his career, Raina scored over 400 runs in nine out of his thirteen seasons, including three seasons with more than 500 runs.

Raina did not participate in IPL 2020 for personal reasons and struggled in IPL 2021, managing only 160 runs in 12 matches. An injury led to his replacement by Robin Uthappa. In the 2022 mega auction, he remained unsold due to his recent decline in performance.

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Exceptional Fielding Skills

Raina is also known for his excellent fielding. Many consider him one of the best fielders in IPL history, recognized for saving runs and making amazing catches. His agility set a high standard and contributed to CSK’s successes. Raina holds the record for the second-most catches in IPL, with 109 catches in 204 matches.

Bowling Versatility

Although primarily a batsman, Raina occasionally bowled effective off-spin and helped his team by taking 25 wickets at an economy rate of under 8 runs per over. His contributions in various aspects of the game made him a valuable all-rounder for CSK.

Key Performances in Playoffs

Raina has a remarkable ability to perform under pressure during IPL playoffs and finals. He has scored the most runs in playoff history, accumulating 714 runs in 24 innings at an impressive strike rate of 155.21, including seven half-centuries. His highest score in a playoff match is 87 runs against Kings XI Punjab (now Punjab Kings) in 2014.

One of Raina’s most memorable performances came during the 2014 playoffs against the Punjab Kings. Facing a daunting target of 226 runs, Raina scored 87 runs off 25 balls, hitting 12 fours and 6 sixes. Although CSK lost the match by 24 runs, Raina’s innings showcased his talent and ability to rise to the occasion.

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