Forced to cast off the famous yellow jersey of the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) for IPL seasons 9 and 10 after the Chennai franchise was suspended for two years, Suresh Raina said, “It’s like moving house where you have lived for eight years. I learned a lot of things from the seniors at CSK. Gujarat Lions will be the new house; it’s difficult and it will be a challenge.”
The highest run-getter in the IPL admitted that being a captain will be different from being a player.
“I have a bigger responsibility. We are lucky to have the CSK players (Brendon McCullum, Dwayne Smith and Ravindra Jadeja), other world-class players and match-winners as well. IPL is a world platform.
“Captain is just a name. You need 11 good players on the park. God has been really kind to us in the last few years. There were some great players. The next two years will be exciting for the youngsters who will get a chance to improve,” added Raina.
The Lions’ skipper, who launched the Spanish energy major Repsol’s lubricant, will join his team at Rajkot on Wednesday.
“I will have a chat with the coaches and seniors. Our first match is against Kings XI at Mohali (April 11).”
Asked whether he would prefer an Indian or foreigner as coach, Raina said: “The BCCI looks after such matters.
“I have played for India for many years, and know my responsibilities.”
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