Picture Credit: Twitter
Former India all-rounder Suresh Raina recently announced retirement from all forms of cricket including IPL, making him eligible for the overseas T20 Leagues. Ever since Raina bid goodbye to competitive cricket, speculations were high about his participation in other leagues around the world.
The 35-year-old is currently participating in the ongoing second edition of Legends League Cricket and representing master blaster Sachin Tendulkar-led India Legends. Meanwhile, fresh reports are hinting at Raina's possible participation in the Abu Dhabi T10 League.
As per pictures doing the rounds on social media, Raina is expected to represent Deccan Gladiators in Abu Dhabi T10 League in the United Arab of Emirates. Although there has not been any official confirmation, the same has also been claimed by a Dainik Jagran journalist on social media.
Notably, players like Virender Sehwag, Yuvraj Singh, Zaheer Khan, S Badrinath, Reetinder Singh Sodhi, Munaf Patel, Yusuf Pathan, and Praveen Kumar had earlier played in the Abu Dhabi T10 League. Reportedly, Raina earlier sought a No Objection Certificate from the Board of Control for Cricket in India and the Uttar Pradesh Cricket Association following his retirement from the international game.
"I wish to play cricket for around two to three years more. A lot of good players are there in the Uttar Pradesh domestic team now and doing really well. I have obtained NOC from UPCA as well," Raina was quoted in Dainik Jagran's report.
Notably, an active player in Indian cricket cannot participate in overseas leagues and would need to retire from all forms of cricket in India to pursue overseas options.
Popularly known as 'Mr IPL,' Raina failed to attract any bidders during the player's auction for IPL 2022 as the CSK loyalist had to join the experts for commentary during the tournament. Raina played 18 Tests, 226 ODIs and 78 T20 internationals. He was also part of the World Cup-winning squad in 2011.