Suresh Raina's Absence Might Hurt CSK, Hints Dean Jones

Suresh Raina, the second highest run-scorer in IPL, pulled out of the lucrative tournament to address major concerns related to his family. Raina has been an integral part of the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) squad and his absence has left a large void in the side. Although, by far, CSK have not opted for any replacement.

Former Australia cricketer Dean Jones hinted that Raina’s absence might hurt CSK as he had scored in abundance in the lucrative tournament. Jones also pointed out that Raina is a good player of spin which has been a weakness for a lot of players in the CSK set-up. However, the expert said that in such situation captain MS Dhoni and coach Stephen Fleming should gel up and address the concern.

“Raina’s absence is a major concern this time and he is in the top five run getters in IPL,” said Jones while speaking on Star Sports show ‘Game Plan’.

“He is a left-hander and plays spin very well and the weakness for CSK could be that majority of their players are a right-handed batsman.

“They need some left handers or they could get stuck, particularly if they are playing to leg-spinners and the ball is going away,” he added.

On his return to India, Raina had cleared the air surrounding his departure from Chennai Super Kings (CSK) camp ahead of the IPL 2020. He rubbished the reports of his rift with anyone and said that he shares a ‘father and son’ relationship with CSK boss N Srinivasan. He also indicated that it was largely due to the attack on his family in Pathankot that made him take the decision.

Raina’s aunt and cousin were left with several injuries. His bua is critically injured and while his cousin passed away. He had asked the Punjab police to intervene in the matter. The former India cricketer has also cleared now that CSK and MS Dhoni are like family to him and it was a tough decision to make for him. He however cleared that he might return to join the CSK camp again.