The Indian Premier League (IPL) has seen many players shine and leave a significant mark on the tournament. When it comes to discussing the best players in IPL history, several names stand out.
Virat Kohli, the highest run-scorer in IPL history, has been a pivotal player for the Royal Challengers Bangalore throughout the years.
Rohit Sharma, celebrated for his exceptional leadership, has led the Mumbai Indians to five championships while delivering remarkable performances with the bat.
Another notable player is Lasith Malinga, the Sri Lankan fast bowler who made a substantial impact for the Mumbai Indians. Known for his deadly yorkers and wicket-taking ability, Malinga is regarded as one of the greatest bowlers in IPL history.
MS Dhoni is often recognized as the best captain in IPL history, known for his strategic brilliance and exceptional finishing skills.
Lastly, Chris Gayle, famously dubbed the “Universe Boss,” has enthralled fans with his explosive batting style. His capability to hit colossal sixes and single-handedly change the game’s outcome made him one of the most thrilling players in the league.
However, if there is one player who truly deserves the title “Mr. IPL,” it is Suresh Raina. Raina, the fifth-highest run-scorer in IPL history, boasts an impressive record of 5528 runs in 205 matches at an average of 32.51 and a strike rate of 136.73. Here’s why he is often called Mr. IPL.
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Suresh Raina’s Performance in the IPL Each Season
Suresh Raina is often referred to as “Mr. IPL” due to his remarkable performances throughout the tournament. His consistency, adaptability, and knack for delivering in critical situations have made him one of the most respected and successful players in the league. Here’s why Raina has earned the title of Mr. IPL:
| Year | Matches | Not Outs | Runs | Highest Score | Avg | Strike Rate | 100 | 50 | 6s |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Career | 205 | 30 | 5528 | 100* | 32.52 | 136.76 | 1 | 39 | 203 |
| 2021 | 12 | 2 | 160 | 54 | 17.77 | 125 | 0 | 1 | 9 |
| 2019 | 17 | 1 | 383 | 59 | 23.93 | 121.97 | 0 | 3 | 9 |
| 2018 | 15 | 3 | 445 | 75* | 37.08 | 132.44 | 0 | 4 | 12 |
| 2017 | 14 | 3 | 442 | 84 | 40.18 | 143.97 | 0 | 3 | 13 |
| 2016 | 15 | 1 | 399 | 75 | 28.5 | 127.88 | 0 | 3 | 10 |
| 2015 | 17 | 2 | 374 | 62 | 24.93 | 123.02 | 0 | 2 | 16 |
| 2014 | 16 | 3 | 523 | 87 | 40.23 | 146.08 | 0 | 5 | 19 |
| 2013 | 18 | 4 | 548 | 100* | 42.15 | 150.13 | 1 | 4 | 18 |
| 2012 | 19 | 1 | 441 | 73 | 25.94 | 135.69 | 0 | 1 | 19 |
| 2011 | 16 | 2 | 438 | 73* | 31.28 | 134.76 | 0 | 4 | 17 |
| 2010 | 16 | 5 | 520 | 83* | 47.27 | 142.85 | 0 | 4 | 22 |
| 2008 | 16 | 3 | 421 | 55* | 38.27 | 142.22 | 0 | 3 | 18 |
Consistency with the Bat
One of the primary reasons Suresh Raina is called Mr. IPL is his outstanding consistency with the bat. He is the fifth-highest run-scorer in IPL history, with 5528 runs in 205 matches, averaging 32.51 and a strike rate of 136.73.
Raina was acquired by the Chennai Super Kings for Rs 2.6 crore during the inaugural season of the IPL. He made an immediate impact, scoring 421 runs in his debut season, boasting a remarkable strike rate of over 142 and three half-centuries, signaling his potential in the tournament. Over the subsequent seasons, Raina became a vital part of CSK’s batting lineup, surpassing 400 runs in nine of his 13 IPL seasons, including three seasons where he exceeded 500 runs.
Although Raina withdrew from IPL 2020 for personal reasons, he faced challenges in IPL 2021, scoring just 160 runs in 12 matches with an average of 17 and a strike rate of 125. An injury further affected his performance, leading to his replacement by Robin Uthappa.
Despite entering the IPL 2022 mega auction, Raina went unsold, primarily due to his recent dip in form.
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Outstanding Fielding
Beyond his batting, Raina is renowned for his exceptional fielding skills. He is considered one of the best fielders in IPL history, often saving crucial runs and taking spectacular catches. His agility and athleticism in the field set a benchmark for other players and significantly contributed to CSK’s success. Raina holds the IPL record for the second-most catches, with an impressive 109 catches in 204 matches.
Versatility with the Ball
While primarily known for his batting and fielding, Raina’s versatility with the ball has also bolstered his reputation as Mr. IPL. He has occasionally bowled useful off-spin, providing crucial breakthroughs for his team at key moments. Raina has taken 25 wickets with an economy of less than 8 runs per over. His ability to contribute in various aspects of the game has made him a valuable all-rounder for CSK.
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Key Performances in Playoffs
Raina’s knack for performing under pressure during IPL playoffs and finals further solidifies his claim to the title of Mr. IPL. He leads the list of batsmen with the most runs in playoff history.
In 24 playoff innings, Raina has accumulated 714 runs at an impressive strike rate of 155.21. He has achieved seven half-centuries, with his highest score being 87 runs against Kings XI Punjab (now Punjab Kings) in 2014.
His ability to play match-winning innings in crucial games showcases Raina’s experience and calm demeanor under pressure, making him a go-to player for his team in high-stakes situations.
Raina’s Best Performance in the IPL
One of Raina’s best performances in the IPL occurred during the 2014 playoffs against the Punjab Kings. Punjab set a daunting target of 226 runs in 20 overs, thanks to Virender Sehwag’s explosive century of 122 runs. CSK faced an early setback with the dismissal of Du Plessis by Mitchell Johnson on the second ball. Suresh Raina entered at number three and unleashed a barrage of boundaries from the outset, achieving the second-fastest IPL fifty in just 17 balls.
After reaching his half-century, Raina continued to accelerate, smashing two sixes and five fours in a single over. His stunning innings of 87 runs off 25 balls, including 12 fours and 6 sixes, ended with his run-out. Despite Raina’s incredible effort, CSK lost the match by 24 runs.
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