The Indian Premier League has witnessed some of the greatest cricketers in the world in its 18-year history. But when it comes to consistency, impact, and loyalty, one name stands out – Suresh Raina. He is often referred to as Mr. IPL because of his unforgettable mark on the league. But what exactly earned him this title? Let’s take a closer look.
Why is Suresh Raina called Mr. IPL?
Suresh Raina earned the title of Mr. IPL due to his consistent performances, contributions, loyalty, and fielding prowess. He was able to score runs quickly, perform under pressure, and dominate the bowlers. Raina was a fan favourite because of his exceptional fielding and explosive batting.
Here is why he is considered Mr. IPL by the fans:
Consistent Performances in IPL
Raina was one of the most consistent batsmen in IPL. He crossed the 400-run mark in 7 seasons consecutively from 2008 to 2014. He was the first batsman to cross the 5000-run mark in IPL earning him the title of Mr. IPL. Suresh Raina also has the highest runs for CSK in IPL.
Loyalty to Chennai Super Kings
The left-handed batsman has been loyal to CSK since the inaugural season in 2008. Raina returned to CSK as soon as they returned after two years of suspension. He also stepped up as a captain in the absence of MS Dhoni on many occasions.
Match Winning Knocks Under Pressure
Be it chasing a massive total or stabilizing the innings after a collapse, Raina delivered time and again. His knock of 87 off 25 balls against Kings XI Punjab in IPL 2014 playoffs remains one of the most explosive innings in IPL history.
One of the Best Fielder in IPL
Apart from his batting heroics, Raina was a livewire on the field. His breathtaking catches, sharp reflexes, and athletic saves made him one of the best fielders in IPL history. Another reason he is called Mr. IPL.
Suresh Raina’s performance in Every IPL Season
| Year | Matches | Not Outs | Runs | Highest Score | Avg | Balls Faced | Strike Rate | 100 | 50 | 4s | 6s | CT | ST |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Career | 205 | 30 | 5528 | 100* | 32.52 | 4042 | 136.76 | 1 | 39 | 506 | 203 | 108 | 0 |
| 2021 | 12 | 2 | 160 | 54 | 17.77 | 128 | 125 | 0 | 1 | 13 | 9 | 7 | 0 |
| 2019 | 17 | 1 | 383 | 59 | 23.93 | 314 | 121.97 | 0 | 3 | 45 | 9 | 7 | 0 |
| 2018 | 15 | 3 | 445 | 75* | 37.08 | 336 | 132.44 | 0 | 4 | 46 | 12 | 9 | 0 |
| 2017 | 14 | 3 | 442 | 84 | 40.18 | 307 | 143.97 | 0 | 3 | 42 | 13 | 4 | 0 |
| 2016 | 15 | 1 | 399 | 75 | 28.5 | 312 | 127.88 | 0 | 3 | 39 | 10 | 7 | 0 |
| 2015 | 17 | 2 | 374 | 62 | 24.93 | 304 | 123.02 | 0 | 2 | 31 | 16 | 11 | 0 |
| 2014 | 16 | 3 | 523 | 87 | 40.23 | 358 | 146.08 | 0 | 5 | 51 | 19 | 11 | 0 |
| 2013 | 18 | 4 | 548 | 100* | 42.15 | 365 | 150.13 | 1 | 4 | 50 | 18 | 10 | 0 |
| 2012 | 19 | 1 | 441 | 73 | 25.94 | 325 | 135.69 | 0 | 1 | 36 | 19 | 11 | 0 |
| 2011 | 16 | 2 | 438 | 73* | 31.28 | 325 | 134.76 | 0 | 4 | 36 | 17 | 4 | 0 |
| 2010 | 16 | 5 | 520 | 83* | 47.27 | 364 | 142.85 | 0 | 4 | 45 | 22 | 10 | 0 |
| 2009 | 14 | 0 | 434 | 98 | 31 | 308 | 140.9 | 0 | 2 | 37 | 21 | 7 | 0 |
| 2008 | 16 | 3 | 421 | 55* | 38.27 | 296 | 142.22 | 0 | 3 | 35 | 18 | 10 | 0 |
Suresh Raina’s IPL Records and Achievements
- First batsman to cross 5000 IPL runs
- Highest run-scorer for CSK in IPL history
- Second most catches by a fielder in IPL history
- Won 4 IPL titles with CSK (2010, 2011, 2018, 2021)
- Over 5000 runs at a strike rate of 136+
- Most runs in Playoffs for Chennai Super Kings
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Mr. IPL?
Suresh Raina is referred to as Mr. IPL due to his consistent performances in the Indian Premier League.
How many catches has Suresh Raina taken in IPL?
Suresh Raina has taken a total of 109 catches in IPL.
