Prime Minister Narendra Modi wrote a special letter to former India all-rounder Suresh Raina hailing his contribution towards Indian cricket.
Raina announced his retirement from international cricket on August 15 minutes after former India skipper MS Dhoni decided to hang his boots.
In the letter, Modi wrote: "Generations will remember you not only as a fine batsman but also as a very useful bowler who the captain could turn to when the situation demanded. Your fielding was exemplary and inspiring. Some of the best catches in recent international cricket have your distinctive imprint. It would take days to count just the number of runs you have saved with your alertness on field."
In the letter, Modi also wrote about Raina's 2011 World Cup heroics, highlighting the crucial quarterfinal knock against Australia at Motera.
“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 Quarter Final against Australia. Your anchoring innings had a big role to play in our team’s victory.
“I can confidently say that most fans will miss your elegant cover drives, one which I was lucky to witness that day.”
Thanking the Prime Minister, Raina, posting the letter on his Twitter handle, said: "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!"
Raina represented India in 226 ODIs scoring 5615 runs with five centuries and 36 fifties. In the 18 Test matches he played, the southpaw scored 768 runs with a century and seven fifties to his credit.
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