Suresh Raina
Suresh Raina
Suresh Raina; born 27 November 1986) is an Indian professional cricketer. An elegant left-handed middle-order batsman and an occasional off-spin bowler, he is also often said to be one of the best fielders in world cricket. He plays for Uttar Pradesh in all forms of domestic cricket and is the captain of Gujarat Lions in the Indian Premier League. He has also captained the Indian cricket team and is the second-youngest player to captain India. He is one of two...
NationalityIndian
ProfessionAthlete
Date of Birth27 November 1986
CountryIndia
My days in hostel were tough. I was ragged by my seniors. We were asked to wash their dirty clothes, do their odd jobs, etc. When it came to eating, we would be often given burnt rotis and milk that had awful odour. But, never once did I call home. I knew if I had to become a tough cricketer, I would have to handle the pressure.
As professional cricketers, we have to ensure that we are battle-ready all the time.
When you're successful, there will be friends, people, VIPs rallying around you. When you're down and out, you're all alone. That's why it's important to be a good person. Because whether you're a successful cricketer or not can always change, but the respect you earn by being the person you are stays with you.
The shot of Kapil Dev kissing the World Cup and hordes of Indian fans all over at Lord's is etched in my memory. Every Indian is proud of that victory, and every Indian player who has played the World Cup after that '83 win wants to bring the Cup home.
My job is to perform, enjoy cricket and thank God for whatever he has given me.
I am not brand conscious. I wear what suits me.
I am very close to my family. I have learned a lot from my father. He used to tell me to be honest with yourself and not to argue with your seniors. You dont need to be involved in any quarrel, as sometimes you need to remain silent intelligently.
I have always maintained that if you work hard, it wont go waste, as recognition will come to you at some stage, whether in studies or sports. You need to have good intentions and intent to move ahead in life as well as in sports.
Celebration is big for me. From my younger days, when I used to win mementos while playing basketball, I have always believed in sharing my success. It has to be there. It lifts the energy levels of the entire side if you are positive and vocal when a wicket falls.