'If You Score 500 Runs In An IPL Season, You Can Represent India'
Suresh Raina reckons cricketers have a real shot at playing international cricket by proving their capabilities in IPL.
The Indian Premier League has fastracked many a career and helped talented cricketers realise their dreams of representing India. From Hardik Pandya to Yashasvi Jaiswal, there are plenty of top international cricketers who first proved their mettle by playing in the IPL which opened the doors to the national side.
As the 18th season of the IPL gets underway from Saturday in Kolkata, Suresh Raina, a former India batter, reckons that the league has provided a stage for young stars to nurture their talent and helped a few grow into successful captains.
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“We have seen so many players nurture their talent and transition to the international arena. India has won the World Cup, the Champions Trophy, the T20 World Cup, and we have witnessed young players grow into captains. Look at Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, and so many fast bowlers who emerged from the league," Raina said.
“Today, we have an exciting new generation of cricketers. I am a big fan of Tilak Varma, Yashasvi Jaiswal, and Rinku Singh. We also have a new (Delhi Capitals) captain in Axar Patel," he added.
Raina, himself an IPL legend, scored 5528 runs from 205 matches in his IPL career. He struck a century and 39 half-centuries while winning as many as four titles with Chennai Super Kings.
Having retired from all forms of cricket, Raina, who is now a commentator, reckons that one good IPL season can launch a player’s international career.
“The most important thing for young players is to stay present, focus on their game, and be consistent. If you score 500 runs in a season, you can represent your country. Every IPL season is an opportunity to evolve, become more fearless, and improve your technique and attitude. That is what IPL is all about—stepping up on big occasions and continuously raising your game," he said.
The first match of the IPL 2025 will see defending champions Kolkata Knight Riders host Royal Challengers Bengaluru at the Eden Gardens on Saturday. However, threat of rain looms large over the season opening clash with IMD issuing orange alert for West Bengal including Kolkata.
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