'Score 500 runs in an IPL season' - Suresh Raina sets benchmark for India call-up
Published - 21 Mar 2025, 03:11 PM | Updated - 21 Mar 2025, 11:40 PM
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As the 18th season of the Indian Premier League (IPL) is set to begin on March 22 in Kolkata, former Indian cricketer Suresh Raina credited the tournament for fast-tracking the careers of young players and producing future leaders for India.
Over the years, the Indian Premier League has provided a platform for rising stars to showcase their talent and helped many players get a place in the Indian cricket team.
Suresh Raina credits IPL for fast-tracking careers of Indian cricketers
Ahead of the IPL 2025, Raina highlighted how the league has fast-tracked the careers of players like Jasprit Bumrah, Hardik Pandya, Rishabh Pant, Yashasvi Jaiswal, and others, giving them the exposure needed to perform at the international level.
The former Chennai Super Kings batter also pointed out how the IPL has helped groom successful captains like Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, refining their leadership skills through the competition. With a new generation of exciting talents emerging, Raina hailed players like Tilak Varma, Rinku Singh, and Yashasvi Jaiswal, who have already impressed with their performances.
Raina also cited the example of Axar Patel’s elevation to captaincy at Delhi Capitals to highlight how the IPL continues to shape the future of Indian cricket.
Suresh Raina is a big fan of Tilak Varma, Yashasvi Jaiswal and Rinku Singh
Suresh Raina was quoted as saying by News18, “We have seen so many players nurture their talent and transition to the international arena. India has won the World Cup, the Champions Trophy, and the T20 World Cup, and we have witnessed young players grow into captains.
Look at Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, and so many fast bowlers who emerged from the league. Today, we have an exciting new generation of cricketers. I am a big fan of Tilak Varma, Yashasvi Jaiswal, and Rinku Singh. We also have a new (Delhi Capitals) captain in Axar Patel.”
Meanwhile, the cricket pundit also believes that a strong IPL season can be a game-changer for young players, who are aiming to make it big in international cricket. With the league providing a high-pressure environment, Raina stressed the importance of players staying focused, performing consistently, and making the most of opportunities.
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If you score 500 runs in a season, you can represent your country: Suresh Raina
The former Indian batter also reckoned that if a player manages to score 500 runs in the IPL, it can open doors for them to the national team. He also called the tournament a stage where players can refine their skills, develop a fearless mindset, and adapt to challenging situations.
Raina signed off by saying, “The most important thing for young players is to stay present, focus on their game, and be consistent. If you score 500 runs in a season, you can represent your country. Every IPL season is an opportunity to evolve, become more fearless, and improve your technique and attitude. That is what IPL is all about—stepping up on big occasions and continuously raising your game.”
Notably, Raina had an impressive career in the IPL, scoring 5528 runs in 205 matches. He played a key role in CSK’s four title triumphs. He also has one century and 39 half-centuries to his name. As the excitement builds for IPL 2025, the season opener will see the defending champions Kolkata Knight Riders taking on Royal Challengers Bengaluru at Eden Gardens on March 22.
