If Dhoni doesn't play the IPL next year, I will not play: Suresh Raina

Former Indian batsman Suresh Raina stated that he would not play the IPL if the current CSK skipper MS Dhoni decides to retire. The duo has played together for the Chennai Super Kings since the maiden season of the IPL in 2008. While MS Dhoni has been their full-time skipper, Suresh Raina is CSK's former vice-captain. The left-handed batsman has led the side in MS Dhoni's absence. In an interview with News 24 Sports, Suresh Raina stated that he would try to convince MS Dhoni to play on for one more season, just in case Chennai goes on to win IPL 2021.

IPL 2021 is set to resume in September in the United Arab Emirates

Raina and Dhoni were retained by Chennai Super Kings ahead of IPL 2011, 2014, and 2018 mega-auctions. Suresh Raina had withdrawn from IPL 2020 due to personal reasons. He was once again retained for IPL 2021 and made his comeback for CSK in the 14th IPL season. Suresh Raina will travel to the UAE for the second phase of IPL 2021, which starts in September.

Suresh Raina has always praised MS Dhoni owing to the respect and admiration he has for him. Playing with him for India and Chennai Super Kings, Suresh Raina has developed a special bond with MS Dhoni. Suresh Raina is the highest run-scorer for the CSK franchise. He has also gained the title of Mr. IPL due to his best performance in the competition.

Last year both MS Dhoni and Suresh Raina retired from International Cricket. Suresh Raina's retirement was a shock for everyone as he was just 34 years old. Everyone anticipated him to play 4-5 years more. But he showed his great friendship and bond with a Former Indian skipper and decided to retire with his best friend.

Chennai Super Kings endured their worst IPL season in 2020. However, the team bounced back to form this year and was second on the IPL 2021 points table. The men in yellow won 5 out of 7 games before the season was suspended due to the second wave of covid-19 in India. 

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