Who is Mr. IPL: Who is this Legend
Suresh Raina, often called Mr. IPL, is the fifth-highest run-scorer in IPL history with 5528 runs in 205 matches, averaging 32.51 with a strike rate of 136.73.
Why is he called Mr. IPL…
The Indian Premier League (IPL) has witnessed many players who have excelled and left a lasting impact on the league. When discussing the top players in IPL, several notable names come to mind.
Virat Kohli, the highest run-scorer in IPL history, has been a cornerstone for the Royal Challengers Bangalore throughout the years. Rohit Sharma, known for his exceptional leadership, guided the Mumbai Indians to five championships while delivering outstanding performances with the bat.
Another standout player is Lasith Malinga, the Sri Lankan fast bowler who made a significant impact for the Mumbai Indians. Renowned for his lethal yorkers and wicket-taking abilities, Malinga is considered one of the greatest bowlers in IPL history.
MS Dhoni is widely recognized as the best captain in IPL history, known for his strategic acumen and exceptional finishing abilities. Lastly, Chris Gayle, often referred to as the “Universe Boss,” captivated fans with his explosive batting style. His ability to hit colossal sixes and change the course of a game single-handedly made him one of the most exciting players in the league.
However, if there is one player truly deserving of the title “Mr. IPL,” it is Suresh Raina. The fifth-highest run-scorer in IPL history, Raina has amassed 5528 runs in 205 matches at an average of 32.51 and a strike rate of 136.73. His consistent performances, match-winning innings, and ability to deliver under pressure have earned him the moniker “Mr. IPL.” Here’s why.
Suresh Raina: Mr. IPL
Suresh Raina, often referred to as “Mr. IPL,” has earned this title due to his remarkable performances in the Indian Premier League over the years. His consistency, adaptability, and ability to deliver in critical moments have made him one of the most respected and successful players in the league. Here’s why Raina has earned the title of Mr. IPL:
Consistency with the Bat:
One of the most significant reasons Suresh Raina is called Mr. IPL is his consistency with the bat. He is the fifth-highest run-scorer in IPL history, amassing 5528 runs in 205 matches at an average of 32.51 and a strike rate of 136.73. Raina was acquired by the Chennai Super Kings for Rs 2.6 crore in the inaugural season of the IPL and made an immediate impact by scoring 421 runs in his debut season.
His outstanding strike rate of over 142 and three half-centuries hinted at his promising future in the tournament. Over the subsequent seasons, Raina became a crucial part of CSK’s batting lineup, surpassing 400 runs in nine of his 13 IPL seasons, including three seasons with over 500 runs.
Raina withdrew from IPL 2020 for personal reasons and faced challenges in IPL 2021, scoring just 160 runs in 12 matches with an average of 17 and a strike rate of 125. An injury further hindered his performance, leading to his replacement by Robin Uthappa. Although he entered the IPL 2022 mega auction, Raina went unsold, mainly due to his recent decline in performance.
Outstanding Fielding:
Apart from his batting, Raina is also known for his exceptional fielding abilities. He is considered one of the best fielders in the history of the IPL, often saving crucial runs and taking spectacular catches. His agility and athleticism in the field set a high standard for other players and contributed significantly to CSK’s success. Raina holds the IPL record for the second-most catches, with an impressive 109 catches in 204 matches.
