Suresh Raina, widely known as Mr. IPL, ranks as the fifth-highest run-scorer in IPL history, accumulating 5528 runs in 205 matches at an impressive average of 32.51 and a strike rate of 136.73.
The Indian Premier League (IPL) has seen many star players leave a lasting mark on the tournament. When we talk about the best in IPL, names like Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, MS Dhoni, and Lasith Malinga quickly come to mind.
Virat Kohli is the highest run-scorer in IPL history and has been the backbone of Royal Challengers Bangalore for years. Rohit Sharma’s leadership has guided Mumbai Indians to five IPL titles, and his batting brilliance is undeniable.
Lasith Malinga, known for his deadly yorkers and ability to take crucial wickets, is considered one of the best bowlers in IPL history. Then there’s MS Dhoni, hailed as the greatest captain in IPL history, known for his brilliant strategy and incredible finishing skills.
Lastly, Chris Gayle, often referred to as the “Universe Boss,” amazed fans with his explosive batting and game-changing sixes.
But if one player deserves the title of “Mr. IPL,” it’s Suresh Raina. Raina ranks fifth among the highest run-scorers in IPL history, amassing 5528 runs in 205 matches at an average of 32.51 and a strike rate of 136.73. Here’s why he earned the title:
Suresh Raina’s Performance in the IPL Each 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 |
Why Suresh Raina is Called “Mr. IPL”
Consistency with the Bat
Suresh Raina’s incredible consistency with the bat earned him the title “Mr. IPL.” With 5528 runs in 205 matches at an average of 32.51 and a strike rate of 136.73, Raina has been a crucial part of IPL history.
In the IPL’s first season, CSK bought Raina for Rs 2.6 crore, and he instantly impressed by scoring 421 runs. Over the years, Raina became a key player for CSK, surpassing 400 runs in 9 out of 13 seasons, including three seasons with over 500 runs.
He missed IPL 2020 for personal reasons and struggled in IPL 2021, managing only 160 runs in 12 matches before being sidelined by injury and replaced by Robin Uthappa.
Despite entering the IPL 2022 auction, Raina remained unsold, partly due to his recent dip in form.
Brilliant Fielding
Raina was not only a reliable batsman but also an outstanding fielder. Known for his agility, he is regarded as one of the best fielders in IPL history. Raina has taken 109 catches in 204 matches, the second-most in the league.
Useful with the Ball
Although mainly known for his batting and fielding, Raina was also a useful off-spinner, picking up 25 wickets with an economy rate below 8 runs per over. His all-round contributions made him an even more valuable player for CSK.
Key Performances in Playoffs
Another reason Raina is called Mr. IPL is his ability to deliver under pressure. He leads the IPL with the most runs in playoff matches, scoring 714 runs in 24 playoff innings at a strike rate of 155.21, with seven half-centuries.
One of Raina’s most memorable innings came in the 2014 IPL playoffs against Punjab Kings. Punjab set a daunting target of 226 runs, thanks to Sehwag’s century. CSK lost Du Plessis early, but Raina counterattacked brilliantly, scoring 87 runs off just 25 balls, including 12 fours and 6 sixes. Despite his valiant effort, CSK fell short by 24 runs.
FAQs
Who is Mr. IPL?
Suresh Raina, who played for CSK and Gujarat Lions, is known as Mr. IPL due to his consistent batting performances.
How many runs did Suresh Raina score in the IPL?
Raina scored 5528 runs in 205 matches, ranking him fifth among the all-time top IPL run-scorers.
How many runs did Suresh Raina score in IPL playoffs?
Raina scored 714 runs in 24 playoff innings at a strike rate of 155.21.