Former Indian cricketer Suresh Raina recently shared insights about his playing career, specifically highlighting his experience facing various bowlers. In an interview, Raina revealed that his former teammate and captain, MS Dhoni, was the toughest bowler he encountered in the nets. Raina praised Dhoni’s bowling skills, his ability to swing the ball, and his playful nature during practice sessions.
Raina spoke highly of Dhoni’s skills with the ball, emphasizing that the CSK skipper would bowl a wide array of deliveries during net sessions. According to Raina, Dhoni’s versatility was remarkable, as he would switch between off-spin, medium pace, and leg-spin. Even in the nets, Dhoni would poke fun at his teammates if he managed to dismiss them, reminding them of his success and keeping the banter alive.
“I think Muralitharan and Malinga, but in the nets, it was MS Dhoni. If he got you out in the nets, then you’d not be able to sit with him for one and a half months because he’d keep gesturing and remind how he got you out. He’d bowl off-spin, medium pace, leg spin, everything. In the nets, he would even justify his front foot no-balls (laughs). Wherever he’d get a red cherry in a Test match, he’d go for it. In England, he’d swing it full throttle,” Raina said.
Raina mentioned that facing Dhoni in the nets was a challenging task, and if he managed to get you out, he would make sure to let you know about it. The friendly rivalry and camaraderie between the players added to the competitive atmosphere during practice sessions. Raina’s admiration for Dhoni’s net bowling skills showcased the mutual respect and rapport they shared as teammates.
While Dhoni’s primary contributions to the team came through his batting and wicketkeeping, he occasionally showcased his bowling abilities during matches and practice sessions. Raina recalled Dhoni’s memorable performance with the ball in the 2009 Champions Trophy match against the West Indies, where he claimed his first and only ODI wicket to date. Dhoni’s delivery that nipped back sharply shattered Travis Dowlin’s stumps.
ICC World Cup 2023 Schedule Announced, Click Here To Check Full Schedule
Raina and Dhoni shared a strong bond both on and off the field. They were teammates in the Indian cricket team and the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) franchise in the IPL. Their camaraderie was evident throughout their playing careers, with Dhoni’s occasional bowling adding another dimension to their friendship.
