So, while there’s surely a lot to play for, this particular T20I series holds even more importance for one particular individual, more so than the rest. The man, of course, is the former Indian mainstay and a veteran in his own right, Suresh Raina. The left-handed batsman scored over 300 runs at an average of just under 40 and an impressive strike rate of 146 in the recently concluded Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy. So, the confidence has to be running high through his veins, and the spotlight currently hovering over his head is expected to either bring out the best in him, or prove to be the final nail in the coffin.
Raina last played an ODI for his country in 2015, following which a sharp decline in form and a gradual slump in fitness paved the way for other talented individuals like Kedar Jadhav and Manish Panday to make their mark. Fortunately for him though, he finds himself in the squad at just the right time with India’s middle order in shambles.
Having already expressed his feelings and frustrations during interviews, it’s a known fact that Raina is still eyeing a place in the squad for the upcoming 2019 World Cup, and according to various cricketing minds, this series might very well decide whether his dreams come to fruition or not.
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