Suresh Raina, one of Indian cricket’s most cherished and versatile players, celebrates his 38th birthday today. A cricketer known for his explosive batting, exceptional fielding, and ability to bowl part-time off-spin, Raina has left an indelible mark on Indian cricket. On this special occasion, let us revisit five remarkable records that underline his incredible contribution to the sport.
1. First Indian to Score a T20I Century
During the 2010 ICC T20 World Cup match against South Africa, Raina became the first batsman from India to make a century in T20 Internationals. In T20 cricket, his scorching 101 off just 60 balls is still regarded as one of the most memorable innings. This record raised the bar for upcoming Indian T20 players and demonstrated Raina’s versatility and skill in the game’s shortest format.
2. First Indian to Score Centuries in All Formats
Test, ODI, and T20I cricket are the three international cricket formats in which Suresh Raina is the first Indian player to score hundreds. This uncommon accomplishment highlights his adaptability and cross-format performance skills. His attitude and preparedness for the big stage were demonstrated in 2010 when he scored his first Test century against Sri Lanka.
3. IPL’s Mr Consistent
Known as “Mr IPL,” Raina was a cornerstone of the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) franchise for over a decade. He is one of the highest run-scorers in IPL history, amassing over 5,500 runs with a remarkable strike rate. Raina’s consistency in delivering match-winning performances, particularly in pressure situations, has made him one of the most celebrated players in the league’s history. His partnership with MS Dhoni at CSK has been a cornerstone of the team’s success.
4. Exceptional Fielder
Regarded as one of the finest fielders of his era, Raina’s athleticism on the field was unparalleled. He was often seen patrolling the inner circle, saving crucial runs and pulling off spectacular catches. His fielding prowess inspired a new generation of cricketers to place greater emphasis on this aspect of the game, elevating India’s standards in fielding on the global stage.
5. Key Role in India’s 2011 World Cup Triumph
Raina played a pivotal role in India’s victorious 2011 ICC Cricket World Cup campaign. While his contributions were often overshadowed by the heroics of Sachin Tendulkar, Yuvraj Singh, and MS Dhoni, Raina’s crucial knocks in the quarter-final against Australia and the semi-final against Pakistan were instrumental in India’s journey to the title. His ability to stay calm under pressure proved invaluable during these high-stakes matches.
A Legacy of Excellence
Beyond his records, Suresh Raina’s contribution to Indian cricket lies in his ability to bring energy and enthusiasm to the team. A team player in every sense, his camaraderie with teammates and his never-say-die attitude made him a fan favourite. As he celebrates his 38th birthday, cricket enthusiasts across the globe remember his stellar performances and wish him success in his future endeavours.
Happy Birthday, Suresh Raina! Your legacy continues to inspire generations of cricketers.
