48: In the pantheon of Indian cricket, there are players who have left an indelible mark on the sport. Suresh Raina, donning the jersey number 48, is one such cricketer whose contributions have been instrumental in shaping modern Indian cricket. A dynamic batsman, an agile fielder, and an occasional bowler, Raina’s all-round abilities made him a household name in cricket-loving nations.
Early Life and Introduction to Cricket
Born on November 27, 1986, in Muradnagar, Uttar Pradesh, Suresh Raina grew up in a middle-class family with a passion for cricket. His journey began in a humble neighborhood where he played tennis ball cricket with friends. His talent and passion quickly caught the attention of his family and coaches, leading him to join the Guru Gobind Singh Sports College in Lucknow at the age of 15.
Raina’s early days were marked by rigorous training and a steadfast commitment to the sport. He represented Uttar Pradesh in the domestic circuit, showcasing his potential in tournaments like the Ranji Trophy and Under-19 World Cup.
Domestic and IPL Career
Suresh Raina’s prowess on the domestic front laid the foundation for his illustrious cricketing career. A stalwart for Uttar Pradesh, he scored heavily in domestic matches, gaining a reputation as a consistent performer. His success in domestic cricket opened the doors to the Indian Premier League (IPL), where he became synonymous with the Chennai Super Kings (CSK).
Suresh Raina’s IPL Career Overview with Jersey Number 48
| Season | Matches Played | Runs Scored | Batting Average | Strike Rate | 50s/100s | Team |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2008 | 16 | 421 | 38.27 | 142.22 | 3/0 | Chennai Super Kings |
| 2010 | 16 | 520 | 47.27 | 142.85 | 4/1 | Chennai Super Kings |
| 2014 | 16 | 523 | 40.23 | 146.08 | 5/0 | Chennai Super Kings |
| 2021 | 12 | 160 | 17.77 | 125.00 | 1/0 | Chennai Super Kings |
| Career | 205 | 5528 | 32.51 | 136.73 | 39/1 | Multiple Teams |
Raina’s consistency with the bat and electric fielding made him an indispensable part of CSK. Often referred to as “Mr. IPL,” he was the first player to cross the 5000-run milestone in the tournament and played a pivotal role in CSK’s multiple championship victories.
International Career
48: Suresh Raina made his international debut in an ODI against Sri Lanka in 2005. Although he had a modest start, he soon became a reliable middle-order batsman for India. His ability to counter-attack, build partnerships, and clear boundaries at will made him a key player in India’s limited-overs formats.
International Career Stats
| Format | Matches | Runs Scored | Batting Average | Strike Rate | 50s/100s | Wickets Taken |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Test | 18 | 768 | 26.48 | 53.14 | 7/1 | 13 |
| ODI | 226 | 5615 | 35.31 | 93.50 | 36/5 | 13 |
| T20I | 78 | 1604 | 29.16 | 134.87 | 5/1 | 13 |
| Career Total | 322 | 7997 | 32.56 | 93.67 | 48/7 | 39 |
Raina’s international career was highlighted by his performances in high-pressure games, especially in ICC tournaments. Notably, he played a crucial role in India’s 2011 ICC Cricket World Cup-winning campaign, scoring vital runs in the knockout stages.
The Versatile All-Rounder
48: While Suresh Raina is predominantly known for his batting, his contributions as a part-time bowler and a fielder have been equally impactful. His off-spin bowling often broke crucial partnerships, and his spectacular catches saved countless runs for the team.
Suresh Raina’s Fielding Highlights
| Tournament | Matches | Catches Taken | Run-Outs Effected |
|---|---|---|---|
| IPL | 205 | 102 | 25 |
| ODI | 226 | 102 | 15 |
| T20I | 78 | 42 | 7 |
| Career Total | 509 | 246 | 47 |
Raina’s athleticism and quick reflexes earned him the reputation of being one of the best fielders of his generation. His commitment to fitness and agility set a benchmark for young cricketers.
Off the Field
48: Suresh Raina’s charisma extended beyond cricket. Known for his humility and camaraderie, he is a role model for aspiring cricketers. Off the field, he has been involved in various philanthropic activities, focusing on education and child welfare through the Gracia Raina Foundation, named after his daughter.
Raina is also a skilled singer and has displayed his talent in public events and on social media platforms. His versatility off the field mirrors his adaptability on the pitch.
Retirement and Legacy
In 2020, Suresh Raina announced his retirement from international cricket, coinciding with the retirement of his mentor and close friend MS Dhoni. This marked the end of an era for Indian cricket.
Even post-retirement, Raina’s influence on the game continues. As a mentor, commentator, and analyst, he remains connected to the sport. His autobiography, “Believe: What Life and Cricket Taught Me,” provides an intimate glimpse into his journey and philosophy.
Suresh Raina’s Career Milestones
| Milestone | Achievement Description |
|---|---|
| First ODI Century | 101* vs. Hong Kong, Asia Cup 2008 |
| First Indian to Score T20I Century | 101 vs. South Africa, T20 WC 2010 |
| ICC Cricket World Cup Winner | 2011 |
| Most Matches in IPL Consecutively | 158 matches from 2008 to 2018 |
Conclusion
Suresh Raina, the man behind the jersey number 48, epitomizes passion, perseverance, and versatility. His contributions to Indian cricket—as a dependable batsman, a sharp fielder, and a game-changer—have left an indelible legacy. While his numbers speak volumes, it is his impact on and off the field that cements his place as one of India’s cricketing legends. Through his journey, Raina has inspired countless young athletes to dream big and believe in themselves.