MS Dhoni-led Chennai Super Kings (CSK) made a bold decision towards the end of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 by excluding their star player Suresh Raina from the playing XI and giving Robin Uthappa a chance.
During the toss before the match against the Delhi Capitals (DC), Dhoni had announced that Raina was injured. However, Raina never returned to CSK’s playing XI for the remainder of the season. As per Raina, the decision to give Uthappa an opportunity was a strategic move and Dhoni consulted him about it.
“When MS Dhoni and I spoke, I suggested that ‘you should try Robin Uthappa’. Dhoni sought my permission to play him, and I told him, ‘he is the guy who will bring you the ultimate victory, trust me’,” said Raina during a conversation with Uthappa.
“Dhoni said, ‘We have played together since 2008, but I want to win this season. Now, you tell me what to do’. I replied, ‘Play Robin at number three and ensure he remains in the playing XI until the final. If you win, CSK will win. Whether I play or him, Robin and Raina are the same,” said the former southpaw.
Notably, CSK went on to claim the title after beating Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) by 27 runs in the summit clash. Uthappa contributed 115 runs in four matches during IPL 2021 with a strike rate of 136.90.