New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi distinctly remembers Suresh Raina’s elegant cover drives. Suresh Raina played those cover drives during the epic 2011 World Cup quarterfinal against Australia in Ahmedabad. Narendra Modi feels, the all-rounder’s fans will miss those after Raina followed MS Dhoni into international retirement.
The 33-year-old Raina announced his retirement August 15, minutes after Dhoni decided to call it quits internationally. The two players, who are close friends, will turn up for Chennai Super Kings in the IPL now.
“I do not want to use the word ‘retirement’ because you are too young and energetic to ‘retire’,” PM Modi said in a two-page note to Raina. The cricketer posted the letter on his Twitter page Friday. Earlier the PM had also written an appreciation letter to Dhoni.
“During your cricketing career, you sometimes faced setbacks including injuries. Every time you overcame those challenges, thanks to your tenacity,” Modi wrote.
Raina, on his part, thanked the Prime Minister.
“When we play, we give our blood & sweat for the nation. No better appreciation than being loved by the people of this country and even more by the country’s PM. Thank you @narendramodi ji for your words of appreciation & best wishes. I accept them with gratitude. Jai Hind,” the cricketer tweeted.
See link: https://twitter.com/ImRaina/status/1296651450974498817
In the letter, Modi recollected how much he enjoyed Raina’s most famous innings of 34 not out in a tricky run-chase. The quarterfinal game was played at the Motera Stadium in Ahmedabad.
“India can never forget your inspiring role during the 2011 World Cup especially during the later matches. I saw you live in action at the Motera Stadium in Ahmedabad, during the quarterfinal against Australia. Your anchoring innings had a big role to play in our team’s victory,” wrote Modi.
“I can confidently say that most fans will miss your elegant cover drives, one which I was lucky to witness that day,” Modi added. He at that time was the Chief Minister of Gujarat.
A bonafide IPL legend, Raina was praised by the Prime Minister for his prowess in the T20 format.
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“As a batsman, you especially distinguished yourself across all mediums and particularly in the newest form of the game, the T20 cricket. This is not an easy format. In tune with our times, it requires quick fixes in double quick time. Again your promptness and speed were assets for this form,” Modi said.
The PM also praised Raina for his participation in social initiatives like ‘Swachh Bharat Abhiyan’ and the cause of women’s empowerment.
“I am confident you will have an equally fruitful and successful innings in whatever you wish to pursue in times to come,” Modi signed off.
