Yuvraj Singh’s exclusion from the 2015 ICC Cricket World Cup came as a shock to every cricket fan. One of the questions that most Indians asked is who would emulate Singh’s role in this year’s World Cup.
Well, one candidate has stepped up expressing the same desire and his name is Suresh Raina.
Suresh Raina hopes to emulate Yuvraj Singh’s performance during the 2015 World Cup
While speaking to bcci.tv, the Indian middle-order batsman said, “I want to play Yuvraj Singh’s role in this World Cup. I want to field, bowl and bat well”.
The 28-year-old southpaw displayed his dominance in India’s opener against arch-rivals Pakistan last Sunday. His worthy score of 74 runs off 56 deliveries helped India register the total of 300 runs, eventually helping his team win by a margin of 76 runs.
Raina played a crucial knock against Pakistan by scoring 74 runs off 56 balls
Raina claims to have looked up to Yuvraj Singh and MS Dhoni as inspirations. “I observed Yuvi and saw how he used to finish games for the side”.
No one has ever questioned Raina’s ability to score big runs during crunch situations. He can also come in handy with his off-spin and carries agility of a leopard while fielding.
Prior to the World Cup, India played in a forgettable tour against Australia. A win in the opening match of the biggest cricket tournament, however, would have definitely given India the much-needed boost to go all the way and retain the trophy.
The victory against Pakistan gave India an impressive lead of 6-0 in the World Cups. Raina talked about every match against the arch-rivals being a high pressure one hoping to maintain the unbeaten record against them.
India beat Pakistan by 76 runs on Sunday
Suresh Raina has started the World Cup campaign on a perfect note. India captain MS Dhoni was all praises for the left-handed batsman after his innings against Pakistan.
India’s next match is against South Africa on 22nd February where they will try to combat a malicious bowling attack that includes Dale Steyn. India have never beaten South Africa in World Cups, but with the current form that Suresh Raina and team India are in, the tides might finally change.
