Chennai Super Kings have been known for their consistent performances in the Indian Premier League over the years, with a host of top-notch players contributing to the team’s success. Although MS Dhoni has remained the backbone of the franchise, Suresh Raina, who was fondly referred to as ‘Mr. IPL’ during his playing days, was an indispensable part of the team since the first season in 2008.Â
In a candid conversation with JioCinema ahead of the IPL 2023 season opener, Raina credited former Australian cricketer Matthew Hayden for playing a significant role in his success during the first season of the tournament.
Haydenâs impact on Raina
During the inaugural season of the IPL, Matthew Hayden made a significant impact in the Super Kings’ dressing room, according to Suresh Raina. The former India international recalled a story from that season where Hayden’s experience and leadership proved invaluable to the team.
âWe had been together since 2008. I learned a lot from him. I still remember we were having a tea meeting during the 2008 season, Keppler Wessels was our head coach that time. Someone asked, âwhat should be our score at the end of 6 overs?â People said 30/2 or 40/2, someone even said 50/2. But Hayden said, âDonât even think about that. From ball one, you just have to go out and smash everything.â At that moment, I realized that this is a really different way to approach the game,â Raina recalled during his chat.
Raina further added, âHe had a fearless approach. He was a good team man with a great cricketing brain. Hayden was always there for the youngsters. He played a big role in boosting my belief.â
Hayden and Raina were members of the Chennai team that lifted the IPL trophy in 2010. This was the first of the four times Chennai had won the IPL. However, Raina was a member of the winning team the other three times as well.
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