‘Can never forget your inspiring role in the 2011 World Cup’ – PM Narendra Modi pens down heartfelt message for Suresh Raina

On Saturday, August 15, India’s favourite son, MS Dhoni, retired from international cricket. It sent shockwaves around the entire nation. However, on the very day, which marked India’s 74th Independence, Suresh Raina also decided to bid goodbye to cricket at the highest level. Though not as popular as Dhoni, the southpaw had managed to garner a significant fan-base.

After he called it a day, Honourable Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi also penned down an emotional message for the 33-year-old. The PM, who earlier, sent a tribute to Dhoni, went down the memory and recalled Raina’s performances in the 2011 World Cup, which India won under MSD’s leadership. In the mega event, Raina did his job with utmost precision and contributed significantly.

PM Modi lauds Suresh Raina

His most important show came in the quarter-final against Australia at the Motera Stadium in Ahmedabad. In that game, he remained unbeaten on 34 and took the Men in Blue to a five-wicket victory. Modi, in his letter, mentioned that he was lucky enough to witness the match live from the venue. He also called the left-hander “synonymous with team spirit”.

Moreover, Modi said that Raina was “way too young and energetic to retire”. The note of appreciation didn’t evade Raina, who was quite to drop a message of gratitude for the colossal personality.

He replied to the PM and wrote, “When we play, we give our blood & sweat for nation. No better appreciation than being loved by people of this country & country’s PM. Thank you PM for your words of appreciation & best wishes. I accept them with gratitude: Suresh Raina.”

Here is Raina’s reply: –

Raina forayed into international cricket as teenager back in 2005 and captured and imaginations of the fans and the selectors with his flair and flamboyance. He made his debut against Sri Lanka and went on to don the national jersey in 18 Tests, 226 ODIs and 78 T20Is.

Raina last played for India in the 2018 tour of England after which he went off the radar. The Uttar Pradesh-born will next be seen in the 2020 Indian Premier League (IPL), representing the Chennai Super Kings (CSK).