It’s been a few years since Suresh Raina retired from cricket. But his retirement hasn’t dimmed his significance in Indian cricket and CSK lore. He stood as a pillar of consistency in the blue as well as yellow jersey, leaving behind several moments of brilliance with his bat and fielding.
Raina’s contributions were more than just statistics, they represented a spirit of dedication and inspiration. Fans still cherish his electrifying innings and game-changing moments, dearly missing his presence on the field. When wondering who is Mr IPL, most choose to name Raina.
Mr. IPL: Suresh Raina IPL CareerÂ
| YEAR | MAT | NO | RUNS | HS | AVG | BF | SR | 100 | 50 | 4S | 6S | CT |
| Career | 205 | 30 | 5528 | 100* | 32.52 | 4042 | 136.76 | 1 | 39 | 506 | 203 | 108 |
| 2021 | 12 | 2 | 160 | 54 | 17.77 | 128 | 125.00 | 0 | 1 | 13 | 9 | 7 |
| 2019 | 17 | 1 | 383 | 59 | 23.93 | 314 | 121.97 | 0 | 3 | 45 | 9 | 7 |
| 2018 | 15 | 3 | 445 | 75* | 37.08 | 336 | 132.44 | 0 | 4 | 46 | 12 | 9 |
| 2017 | 14 | 3 | 442 | 84 | 40.18 | 307 | 143.97 | 0 | 3 | 42 | 13 | 4 |
| 2016 | 15 | 1 | 399 | 75 | 28.50 | 312 | 127.88 | 0 | 3 | 39 | 10 | 7 |
| 2015 | 17 | 2 | 374 | 62 | 24.93 | 304 | 123.02 | 0 | 2 | 31 | 16 | 11 |
| 2014 | 16 | 3 | 523 | 87 | 40.23 | 358 | 146.08 | 0 | 5 | 51 | 19 | 11 |
| 2013 | 18 | 4 | 548 | 100* | 42.15 | 365 | 150.13 | 1 | 4 | 50 | 18 | 10 |
| 2012 | 19 | 1 | 441 | 73 | 25.94 | 325 | 135.69 | 0 | 1 | 36 | 19 | 11 |
| 2011 | 16 | 2 | 438 | 73* | 31.28 | 325 | 134.76 | 0 | 4 | 36 | 17 | 4 |
| 2010 | 16 | 5 | 520 | 83* | 47.27 | 364 | 142.85 | 0 | 4 | 45 | 22 | 10 |
| 2009 | 14 | 0 | 434 | 98 | 31.00 | 308 | 140.90 | 0 | 2 | 37 | 21 | 7 |
| 2008 | 16 | 3 | 421 | 55* | 38.27 | 296 | 142.22 | 0 | 3 | 35 | 18 | 10 |
Suresh Raina’s journey with CSK is nothing short of legendary. Since his acquisition in the inaugural IPL season of 2008 for a notable sum of INR 2.6 crores, Raina rapidly ascended to become a cornerstone of the franchise.
His impact was seen in the team’s success, as he consistently delivered match-winning performances from the No. 3 batting position. He remarkably scored 400+ runs in seven consecutive seasons.
Raina’s tenure with CSK saw the team clinch three IPL titles and secure multiple playoff finishes. He is still their highest run-scorer, and the fourth-highest run-scorer in IPL history. Beyond his batting exploits, Raina’s exceptional fielding skills and handy off-spin bowling added depth and versatility to his game, making him an invaluable asset in the T20 format.
In 2016 and 2017, when CSK faced suspension from the IPL, Raina took on the responsibility of leading the Gujarat Lions to the playoffs. However, his heart remained with CSK, and upon the franchise’s return in 2018, Raina rejoined the team.
Despite initial success upon his return, including a title win in the comeback season in which he scored over 400 runs, Raina faced challenges, notably in the 2020 season. His abrupt departure from CSK’s bio-bubble in the United Arab Emirates just before the start of the season raised eyebrows and sparked speculation.
The next season, Raina’s form suffered, leading to his eventual exclusion from the playing XI after managing just 160 runs in 12 innings. CSK went on to win the title that year, but it marked the end of Raina’s illustrious IPL career as he went unsold at the IPL 2022 auction.
Suresh Raina Records in the IPL
Suresh Raina’s legacy in the IPL is adorned with remarkable records.
Most Runs for CSK
Despite his absence from the IPL for the past two years, Raina stands tall as the leading run-scorer for CSK, amassing a staggering 5529 runs at an impressive average of 33.10 and a formidable strike rate of 138.91. His tally includes two centuries and 38 half-centuries, eclipsing even MS Dhoni, who trails behind at 5067 runs.
Fifth Highest Run-Scorer in IPL History
Raina also holds the position of being the fifth highest run-scorer in the history of the IPL, surpassed only by the likes of Virat Kohli, Shikhar Dhawan, David Warner, and Rohit Sharma. Among retired players, Raina reigns supreme as the highest run-getter in IPL history.
Most Catches by a Non-Keeper
Renowned for his exceptional fielding acumen, Raina has turned numerous matches in CSK’s favour with his brilliant catches. His tally of 109 catches in 205 matches is unparalleled among non-keepers in the IPL, surpassing the nearest competitor, Kieron Pollard, by six catches.
First Batter to Score 5000 IPL Runs
In a historic moment during IPL 2019, Raina became the first player to breach the 5000-run mark in the IPL. This milestone was achieved with a 15-run knock in the season’s opening game against Royal Challengers Bangalore.
Most Runs in Playoffs
Raina’s penchant for delivering under pressure is exemplified by his record for scoring the most runs in IPL playoffs. With a tally of 714 runs amassed across 24 innings, Raina’s consistency in crucial matches is unparalleled. He leads the pack, followed closely by CSK captain MS Dhoni.
Suresh Raina Best Knocks in the IPL
87 of 25 Against Kings XI Punjab – 2014
Raina’s innings against KXIP in the 2014 IPL semi final was a breathtaking display of power hitting. Batting at #3, he quickly reached his 50 in just 16 balls, changing the game’s momentum in favour of CSK. Raina’s assault on the Punjab bowlers, particularly on Parwinder Awana, was spectacular, including a 32-run over that propelled CSK past 100 in just 6 overs. Despite his eventual runout, Raina’s heroic effort wasn’t enough as CSK fell short by 24 runs.
57* of 35 Against Mumbai Indians – 2010
In the IPL 2010 final against Mumbai Indians, Suresh Raina once again proved his mettle as a big-match player. Despite early setbacks for CSK, Raina partnered with Dhoni, stabilizing the innings with a quickfire 62-run stand in less than 6 overs. His unbeaten knock of 55 runs, featuring three fours and three sixes, guided CSK to a competitive total of 168. Defending their total, CSK restricted MI to 146, clinching the title.
100* of 53 Against Kings XI Punjab – 2013
Raina’s maiden IPL century in 2013 was a historic moment in his glittering IPL career. Coming to bat with Chennai struggling, Raina turned the game around with his explosive batting, reaching his century in just 53 balls and propelling his team to a formidable total of 186. Raina’s innings, adorned with seven fours and six sixes, was instrumental in Chennai’s 15-run victory over KXIP.
FAQs about Who is MR IPL
Q) Who is called Mr IPL?
A) Suresh Raina is often referred to as Mr. IPL due to his consistent and stellar performances in the Indian Premier League over the years.
Q) What is Mr. IPL’s name?
A) Mr. IPL’s name is Suresh Raina, a highly accomplished cricketer known for his contributions to the Chennai Super Kings and his overall excellence in IPL cricket.
