Watch: Sakshi Dhoni’s heartwarming call for Suresh Raina adds emotional touch to CSK event ahead of IPL 2026

The Chennai Super Kings (CSK) are one of the most successful teams in the Indian Premier League (IPL), and the reason is Suresh Raina. The former cricketer went unsold in the 2022 auction, but before that, he was one of the most consistent players in the tournament's history and was also the leading run-scorer in the league. He has played in 205 matches, scoring 5,528 runs at an average of 32.51, including 39 half-centuries and one century. 

Hence, he was also known as Mr IPL for years. Making his debut in 2008, Raina played for CSK and Kochi Tuskers Kerala in the IPL. He is one of those players who has wreaked havoc on many bowlers, including Sunil Narine in 2012, when he was at his peak. For his outstanding performance, his name was inducted into the Hall of Fame. 

See Also: Watch: MS Dhoni breaks silence on retirement at Chennai Super Kings event ahead of Indian Premier League 2026

Sakshi Dhoni's heartwarming call for Suresh Raina wins hearts

MS Dhoni's wife, Sakshi Dhoni, has a friendly bond with Suresh Raina, and everyone knows about it. She called Raina first during the 2015 World Cup when Dhoni wasn't answering her call after their child's birth. Hence, their bond is quite evident from here. During the event, when Raina was walking towards the stage, Sakshi called him 'Gracia ke papa'. 

The moment went viral on social media as she tried to hide her face when the camera turned towards her out of shyness. Gracia is Raina and Priyanka Raina's firstborn daughter, who was born in 2016. She traveled with the player when he was playing for CSK in the IPL. 

Watch the video here:

Fans react to Sakshi Dhoni's gestures

The fans were excited to see the former cricketer's name in the Hall of Fame, as he clearly deserved it. He did his best for the team for years and helped them win the titles. Raina was a part of the team when they won in 2010, 2011, 2018, and 2021.