N Srinivasan Hints Towards A 'Rift' Between MS Dhoni And Suresh Raina As Reason Behind The Southpaw's Exit

Suresh Raina’s sudden exit from the 13th edition of the IPL has not only left the fans in shock but it has also caused a stir in the CSK management.

Raina has already reached New Delhi where he has quarantined himself in his residence. While the reason behind his sudden departure from CSK’s bubble isn’t confirmed, reports in the media have claimed that the outbreak of Covid-19 in the camp after two players- Ruturaj Gaikwad and Deepak Chahar- and 11 other members tested positive for the deadly virus resulted in the southpaw’s decision to step aside from the tournament.

Another potential reason that has been speculated behind his exit is the dastardly attack on his family members in Pathankot. But according to N Srinivasan, a potential ‘rift’ between Raina and MS Dhoni over the allotment of a hotel room is the reason behind the southpaw’s decision to quit.

According to a report published in Outlook, Suresh Raina wasn’t happy with the room that he was provided in CSK’s bio-bubble. The veteran all-rounder was also finding it difficult to cope with the stringent bio-security measures and wanted the same room as Dhoni was provided.

Also Read- Report- Suresh Raina Withdrew From The IPL Due To Covid-19 Fear

Rift between Suresh Raina and MS Dhoni? N Srinivasan suggests so

According to N Srinivasan, the situation soon got out of control despite Dhoni’s efforts.

Terming Suresh Raina as ‘prima donnas, Srinivasan said that the team is trying to quickly get over the Raina saga.

“Cricketers are like prima donnas … like the temperamental actors of the olden days. Chennai Super Kings have always been like a family and all seniors players have learnt to co-exist,” N Srinivasan was quoted as saying by Outlook India.

“My thinking is that if you are reluctant or not happy, go back. I don’t force anyone to do anything … sometimes success gets into your head,” Srinivasan said.

Srinivasan hailed Dhoni’s calmness, adding that the skipper has assured that there is nothing to worry even if the cases go up.

“I spoke to MS (Dhoni) and he has assured me that even if the numbers go up, there was nothing to worry. He spoke to the players through a zoom call and asked them to remain safe. You really don’t know who is a passive carrier,” Srinivasan said.

“I have got a solid captain. Dhoni is simply unfazed by anything. That is giving everyone in the team a lot of confidence,” Srinivasan said.

Srinivasan also reckoned that Suresh Raina will soon ‘realize’ what he has missed out.

“The season has not begun yet and Raina will certainly realise what he is missing and certainly all the money (a salary of 11 crores per season) he is going to lose,” the CSK boss concluded.

Also Read- Nothing More Important Than Kids: Suresh Raina