In a significant milestone for Indian cricket, Suresh Raina etched his name in history as the second youngest captain to lead the Indian national team.

This achievement highlights not just his leadership qualities but also his journey from being a dynamic middle-order batsman to taking charge in one of the most crucial roles in international cricket.

Domestic Profession

After being chosen at the age of 15 for the U-19 tour to England in 2002, Raina became the captain of the Uttar Pradesh U-16s and gained notoriety among Indian selectors. During the U-19 Test matches, he scored two half-centuries. Later that year, he went on a U-17 team tour of Sri Lanka.

At the age of 16, he played his first Ranji Trophy match for Uttar Pradesh against Assam in February 2003, but he didn't play again until the following season. In 2005, he made his List A cricket debut in Indore against Madhya Pradesh, scoring 16 runs.

How Raina Became the Second Youngest Captain

Raina’s leadership journey began when he was entrusted with the Indian team’s captaincy during a one-off ODI against Sri Lanka in 2010. At the time, he was just 23 years old, making him the second youngest captain after M. S. Dhoni, who was appointed at the age of 26. This was a huge responsibility for Raina, who was known for his aggressive batting but had limited experience leading the side in such a high-profile match.

The match was significant for Raina, not just because of his leadership debut but also for his role in Indian cricket’s post-Dhoni era, which paved the way for a new generation of leaders to rise. Although Raina's captaincy experience was brief, it showed his potential to take on a leading role in Indian cricket in the future.

Raina’s Leadership in the IPL

Raina also showcased his leadership skills in the Indian Premier League (IPL), where he led the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in the absence of MS Dhoni for several matches. His ability to handle pressure, guide his team through tough situations, and make strategic decisions on the field earned him praise from all corners. Under Raina’s leadership, CSK performed well, demonstrating his consistency as a captain.

Raina’s Legacy in Indian Cricket

While Suresh Raina did not get as many opportunities to captain the Indian national team, his impact in Indian cricket remains undeniable. He became known for his unorthodox batting, electric fielding, and his ability to play under pressure in major tournaments like the ICC T20 World Cup and ICC Champions Trophy. His leadership, however, adds another dimension to his legacy, showing his versatility as both a player and a leader.