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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