5 reasons why Suresh Raina can be India’s next Yuvraj Singh

Following his superb performance in India’s opening game against Pakistan, Suresh Raina thanked MS Dhoni for his support and said he wants to emulate Yuvraj Singh’s performance in the 2011 World Cup.

“I want to play Yuvraj Singh’s role in this World Cup. I want to field, bowl and bat well,” Raina said after that memorable game.

While many believe it’s too early to compare the two players, some believe the underrated Raina is only getting credit that has been long due. We tend to agree with the latter group and here are five reasons why we believe Raina is capable of filling Yuvraj’s shoes.

1. He loves the limited-overs game.

While he is yet to prove his worth in the Test arena, Raina has become one of India’s best players in ODIs and T20s. The no. 4 position suits him well and he can modify his game very well according to the team’s needs.

2. He handles pressure well.

Raina paces his innings beautifully. His excellent reading of the game allows him to control the tempo of the game.

3. He is an excellent fielder.

Suresh Raina is a livewire in the field. Reliable in the slips, lively in the circle and equally brilliant in the outfield, Raina is so dependable that you wish every single catch to drop to him.

4. He’s a handy part-time bowler.

He may not be as wily as Yuvi with the ball, but he is useful enough. MSD often turns to him to quickly run through the middle overs and put pressure on the opposition. He can slow down things and his slow pace can sometimes provide key wickets.

5. He lifts the entire team

Apart from being athletic in the field, Raina is a cheerful and lively character. Every team needs someone to lighten the mood in tense situations. Sometimes as a bowler, when you’re being smashed around the ground by a David Warner or a Glenn Maxwell, you just need that pat on the back, that silly crack about a teammate, those words of encouragement. His unselfish attitude with the bat and his ability to take pleasure in the achievements of his mates also make him an excellent team player.