On May 29, Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) delivered a crushing blow to send Punjab Kings (PBKS) packing in their adopted home ground in Mullanpur. Hazlewood's return boosted RCB massively as he picked up three wickets early doors to lay the foundation for a spectacular batting collapse. Suyash, in the middle overs, tightened the screwes and returned figures of 3-17 to cripple the explosive PBKS batting lineup.

See also: RCB creates another record in IPL 2025 with unprecedented batting feat

The run chase from RCB was menacing, as Salt quickly raced out of the blocks, hammering and unbeaten 56* to help RCB complete a record run chase inside 10 overs. Their massive eight-wicket win has left a deep scar on PBKS's face as they look to regroup ahead of their do-or-die Qualifier 2 match on June 1. 

RCB enter IPL final after nine years

RCB brushed aside PBKS in a one-sided manner in Qualifier 1 to book their spot in the IPL 2025 Final. Their nine-year-long wait has finally come to an end. It is worth noting that the franchise has previously made three appearances in the final before the ongoing edition. RCB brought their A-game to the fore like no one expected. It got all the players involved, most notably King Kohli, who was frequently seen passing suggestions to his bowlers after every delivery. 

The buzz and the euphoria also left the on-air commentators captivated. The commentary panel, featuring Navjot Singh Sidhu, Suresh Raina, and Akash Chopra, was full of praise as they couldn't really come to terms with how RCB went about a rampage. Former Indian batting legend Suresh Raina also expressed his views on Kohli & Co's extraordinary dominance on the field. 

Watch Raina's reaction in the comm box:

WICKET! 💥

Priyansh Arya is gone and RCB is pumped!

Virat Kohli’s energy is unmatched, and the Comm Box is LOVING every second of it. 🔥

LIVE NOW ➡ https://t.co/B4bnHnppgJ #IPLPlayoffs | #Qualifier1 👉 #PBKSvRCB on Star Sports Network & JioHotstar pic.twitter.com/ZYUVEcO8A4

— Star Sports (@StarSportsIndia) May 29, 2025

In this video, Raina heaped praise on Kohli and recognized the hard work that he has put in over his 18-year-long career with RCB. He beleives that the plan is all coming together for RCB now and aspires them to reach the top summit. 

On the back of a thumping win, experts suggest that we could likely see a new champion this year. However, RCB will have to wait for the outcome of the Eliminator and Qualifier 2 match to determine their opponents for the final that will be played in Ahmedabad on June 3. 

Suresh Raina, known affectionately as "Mr. IPL," has announced that he will return to the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) for IPL 2026, this time not as a player but as a batting coach. The former Indian international made the announcement live on air, expressing his excitement to be able to teach the future stars of CSK. As a franchise legend, Raina's confirmed comeback has caused a frenetic rapture among CSK fans, who have long regarded him as one of the finest figures in their franchise history.

Raina's career in the IPL is sheer legitimate greatness. Over 205 matches, he achieved 5,528 runs off 4,095 balls with an average of 32.51 and a strike rate of 136.76. He scored one century and thirty-nine half centuries, with a highest score of 100*. He always was a reliable middle-order batsman, and he contributed tremendously to many of the title runs CSK achieved. Raina also holds the record for the most catches without being a wicketkeeper in IPL history with 109 catches, showing his speed, agility, and ability to put his body on the line for the fans and franchise.

Meanwhile, CSK is currently showcasing their firepower in IPL 2025. In the match today against Gujarat Titans (GT), they put up a huge score of 231/4, with explosive half centuries from Devon Conway and young gun Dewald Brevis. At the halfway stage, GT found themselves a disappointing 85/3 after 10 overs, and they needed something special to mount a successful chase. This match really emphasizes CSK's overall strength and depth to their batting — something that Raina will be a big part of developing come next season.

Raina's New Role: Shaping the Yellow Brigade

Raina's role as a coach for CSK signifies the approach CSK takes in maintaining continuity and legacy. To this end, as the team sets sail for an era potentially beyond the chapter of Dhoni, Raina will provide technical alliance but also leadership potential from an emotional aspect of feeling rather than thinking. Raina knows how to connect with players and has genuine experience that he is more than qualified to exploit.

Watch the video here

Suresh Raina as a CSK batting Coach next seasonpic.twitter.com/QxteoIGXi5

— Prateek (@PagalYuva_) May 25, 2025

Also Read: WATCH: Chennai Super Kings special edit for MS Dhoni in their last league match of IPL 2025

For fans and the franchise, Raina's return to the CSK dressing room, even without the bat, offers both nostalgia and fresh hope. The "Chinna Thala" is back, and this time to shape a fresh chapter off the field for CSK.

Former India player Suresh Raina feels RCB can lift their maiden IPL title in 2025. Before the resumption of the 18th edition of the league, Raina stated that the three-time finalists have played in a different league this season and seem to be headed for the final.

The retired CSK player opined that RCB's bowling has been the primary factor for their success during IPL 2025. He spoke about RCB defeating CSK in both of their matches under the guidance of Rajat Patidar and declared it as a big achievement. Interestingly, this is the first time in the league's history that CSK have been done a double over by RCB.

"Arounds are high because Royal Challengers Bengaluru is playing in a different division this season. They've defended totals of 150 and 136 at Chinnaswamy, and their bowling department has improved. The new skipper has beaten Chennai Super Kings twice-once in Chennai and once at home, which says a lot," Raina told Star Sports.

Also read: WATCH: Chaos erupts outside Eden Gardens ahead of IPL Showdown, Know the reason why

This could well be Virat's year to win the trophy: Suresh Raina

Raina also added that dressing room culture in RCB appears upbeat and declared it to be an indicator of a team that would go the distance. Raina admitted that Mumbai Indians, Gujarat Titans, and Punjab Kings have been doing well but opined that he believes this would be the year when Kohli and RCB would break the 18-year lean season.

"The dressing room is upbeat, and these are signs of a team that can win it all. Yes, Mumbai Indians, Gujarat Titans, and Punjab Kings are also performing well, but this may be Virat's year to win the trophy after 18 years," Raina concluded. RCB will host KKR in the 58th match of the IPL 2025, which is slated to resume the league after the temporary halt enforced due to India-Pakistan tensions. On the other hand, the match at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium may be disrupted by rain according to the weather report.

In a recent online-circulating interview clip, ex-Indian cricketer Suresh Raina was asked a very interesting question  if he had to choose one batting partner between Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, who would it be? Both are contemporary greats, and Raina has shared the dressing room and the crease with both of them on many occasions. Of course, everyone expected the choice to be a tough one. But Raina replied promptly and his choice surprised most fans.

In contrast to expectations that he would opt for Kohli, who is known for his aggression and consistency, Raina chose Rohit Sharma as his choice batting partner.

I always had a wonderful rhythm with Rohit," Raina told the interview. "There is tranquility when we bat together. We know each other without words.

ALSO SEE:Virat Kohli likes Anveet Kaur hot photos on Anushka’s birthday – fans shocked

Raina chooses Rohit, says they understand each other better while batting

Watch the video:

Suresh Raina 🎙️- I will prefer playing for MI then RCB bcz i want to bat with Rohit in wankhede.

Bodied Chokli and his fans who hypes his bond with Kohli like some Jai-Viru 😭 pic.twitter.com/RBFHR3D7E3

— ` (@V1shu45) May 2, 2025

This decision forthwith created a buzz throughout social media, with fans going down nostalgia lane about Raina and Rohit's fruitful combinations, both in global cricket and the IPL. Their on-field camaraderie, especially during stressful moments, has been hailed time and time again for its equilibrium and calmness.

Raina’s selection wasn't a slight against Virat Kohli. In fact, he went on to praise Kohli for his relentless intensity and unmatched hunger for runs, calling him “a true legend” and “a fighter.” However, Raina emphasized that comfort at the crease often stems from non-verbal understanding and shared temperament, which he said he finds more naturally with Rohit.

Raina's reaction video clip soon turned viral, attracting diverse fan reactions. Some were shocked, while others cheered his candid opinion and travelled down the memory lane, reminiscing about Raina-Rohit classics.

In the end, Raina's response brings to the fore that batting partnerships in successful runs are not just about talent  they live on timing, trust between partners, and an intuitive understanding among team-mates.

On April 26, in the IPL 2025 game between Punjab Kings (PBKS) and Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), KKR's mystery spinner Varun Chakravarthy proved competent once again over PBKS superstar Glenn Maxwell. PBKS was chasing a decent score of 173, as in only 16.3 overs, it made an impressive 172 for 2 at a strong run rate of 10.42. However, Chakravarthy had a different plan for Maxwell and his 'bundles of mystery spin.'

Chakravarthy dismissed Maxwell, and it was the fifth time 'Chakra' had dismissed the Australian in just eight IPL innings. This was a huge turning point in the match, as Chakravarthy showed that he is capable of troubling the best of the best. The dismissal spawned a cheeky viral comment from former Indian cricketer Suresh Raina, who said, "Varun Chakravarthy keeps Glenn Maxwell in his pocket."

Raina's cheeky comment made on social media went viral and has divided opinion amongst fans, with some protecting Raina's cheekiness and others stating it was an unfair statement. It also led to debate regarding the PBKS's team selection, with fans criticizing the franchise for picking overseas players like Maxwell rather than Indian players who were currently in form, like Nehal Wadhera and Shashank Singh. Chakravarthy's performance also reinforced he was a critical asset for KKR.

Watch the video here

Suresh Raina said, "Varun Chakravarthy keeps Glenn Maxwell in his pocket". pic.twitter.com/GScdMZzyKI

— Mufaddal Vohra (@mufaddal_vohra) April 26, 2025

Also Read: Shubman Gill drops bombshell revelation about his relationship with Sara Tendulkar

Chakravarthy’s Dominance against Maxwell

Chakravarthy's record against Maxwell underscores his abilities as a mystery spinner. Notably, Chakravarthy has 83 wickets in 70 IPL matches at an economy rate of 7.56, and he has consistently deceived aggressive batsmen in the past. Maxwell has long struggled with his untraditional variations, and Chakravarthy has been able to feast on his attacking mindset in IPL matchups. Because of this, the two have become highlights of IPL contests. He was able to expose Maxwell's risk-taking mentality, as well as that of other all-star players such as MS Dhoni, which has marked him as a big-match player.

The dismissal and Raina’s comment also reignited discussions about PBKS’s team selection and Maxwell’s form. One fan expressed frustration with PBKS’s management, led by coach Ricky Ponting, for favoring overseas players like Maxwell over in-form Indian talents like Nehal Wadhera and Shashank Singh. Maxwell’s inconsistent performances in IPL 2025 have been a talking point, with some fans labeling him a "flop show" in this season.

Former Indian cricketer praises 14-year-old prodigy with a Bollywood tune live on air  In an electrifying IPL 2025 fixture between Rajasthan Royals (RR) and Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium on April 24, the spotlight wasn’t just on the cricket—it was also on the commentary box. Former Indian player and commentator Suresh Raina provided a musical flavor to the evening, singing a Bollywood song to young RR opener Vaibhav Suryavanshi. The incident came after the 14-year-old made a splash with his aggressive stroke play. Raina sang, "Chhota bacha jaan ke, na koi aankh dikhana re, Dubi dubi dab dab," praising the youngster's bravery on the big stage.

RR, in pursuit of a steep 206, made a blistering beginning courtesy of their young opening pair—Yashasvi Jaiswal and Vaibhav Suryavanshi. The teenager, confident to the core, boldly tackled RCB's seasoned bowling attack. In a performance to remember, he smashed two huge sixes off veteran pacer Bhuvneshwar Kumar and sprinted to 16 off 12 deliveries before his brief but explosive stay at the crease came to an end.

Although Suryavanshi did not bat for long, his composure and bold intent impressed all. He had already made headlines in his first match against Lucknow Super Giants this season, scoring 34 off only 20 balls. With such promising innings at the beginning of the tournament, the young sensation has already emerged as one of the most thrilling discoveries of IPL 2025.

Also read: IPL Controversy: Why RCB escaped penalty after Suyash Sharma’s unusual move vs RR

"He is never scared": Raina Praises Teen Sensation's Fearless Approach

In commentary, Raina could not help but express his admiration. "He's just 14, but the maturity, awareness, and body language he shows are that of a seasoned player. He's never scared," said the former India legend.

Suryavanshi, selected for ₹1.1 crore in the mega auction of the IPL 2025, is taking up huge shoes left by Sanju Samson. By virtue of consistent good showings in back-to-back performances, the Royals will be seeking their young opening batsman to repeat his magic when the Gujarat Titans play on April 28.

Would you prefer a 1-line summary of this too?

During commentary for Mumbai Indians' dominant nine-wicket win over Chennai Super Kings at Wankhede Stadium, former India cricketer Suresh Raina expressed concern over CSK’s alarming decline in IPL 2025. He remarked that he had never seen the team in such disarray, struggling for form and results. With six losses in their first eight matches, CSK currently sit at the bottom of the points table. Raina pointed to the lack of fresh ideas and shaky leadership, especially after Ruturaj Gaikwad’s absence led to MS Dhoni, now 43, taking over the captaincy again.

Raina, who spent 12 seasons with CSK and was a vital part of their golden era, believes that the franchise’s current troubles stem from poor auction strategies. The team appears to lack batting depth and explosive firepower, leaving them vulnerable against more balanced sides. Their inability to adapt or innovate mid-season is also becoming increasingly apparent. While Dhoni remains an iconic figure, his return to leadership hasn’t been enough to spark a turnaround. With playoff hopes fading fast, the spotlight is now on CSK’s think tank to reassess their direction, both for the remainder of the season and in preparation for future campaigns.

See Also: 'Dhoni has resigned to fate' – Aakash Chopra makes bold statement on MS Dhoni’s mindset amid IPL 2025

“I think, from the coach and the management, the auction has not gone well this year,” Raina said on Star Sports. “There were so many youngsters, talented players in the auction, like Priyansh (Arya) who scored a 100 the other day. Even among the more senior players, you left Shreyas Iyer, Rishabh Pant and KL Rahul. When you see the other teams play, they are attacking so much. (In front of them,) I have never seen a CSK team struggle like this”, Raina told during his commentary stint.

Watch the video here;

Experts @ImRaina and @harbhajan_singh break down what’s gone wrong for CSK from the auction table to the pitch 📝

What are your views on the experts' take? 🤔#IPLRevengeWeek 👉 #KKRvGT | MON, 21 APR, 6:30PM on Star Sports 1, Star Sports 1 Hindi & JioHotstar! pic.twitter.com/WsQQcAe5tH

— Star Sports (@StarSportsIndia) April 21, 2025

Talent hunt team should be questioned: Harbhajan Singh

Former India spinner Harbhajan Singh, who previously played for CSK, remarked that he hadn't seen any young player in the current CSK squad capable of delivering a game-changing innings. He questioned the efforts of those responsible for scouting talent for the team, suggesting that they should be held accountable for whether they had provided accurate and effective information to the management, which ultimately influenced the selections made during the auction.

 “Among the youngsters, I have not seen anyone play for CSK who can play a game-changing innings. Those that hunt the talent pool for this team need to also be asked questions of whether they passed on the right information to the (management) based on which the selection (at the auction) took place”, Harbhajan Singh said.

India won their third ICC Champions Trophy beating New Zealand by 4 wickets which became a crisp encounter for the last 45 minutes though India managed to be victorious. Captain Rohit Sharma led from the front not just on the field but with the bat too. Rohit had a good batting tenure but couldn't long for the team to score in the league matches. But took his time and scored a well-made 74 

Suresh Raina who was in the commentary panel enjoyed the match very well and gave his major inputs by sharing his experience of the 2013 Champions Trophy triumph. Raina says we were in similar kind of situation by batting first and kept on losing wickets. Though our bowlers did a good job and especially Ishant Sharma's second last over was crucial. 

Read More: Kuldeep Yadav Double Wickets Blow Breaks The Jinks Of Not Taking Wickets In ICC Knockouts Game

Interacting with fans and their roles

After the Champions Trophy victory 2025 Raina too joined with the team for a small celebration and through that he had small interaction with fans where he told to give warm welcome to the players and the captain Rohit Sharma as they put on lots of effort to bring back the trophy for the third time. He also included the names of players like Shreyas Iyer, Varun Chakravarthy and so on. 

Suresh Raina to paps at airport:- "Rohit Sharma ayege achhe se cheer karna uske liye, badi meant Ki hai usne"🥹🇮🇳❤️

Suresh Raina.❤️‍🩹 pic.twitter.com/a0Gl0qhBlp

— 𝐑𝐮𝐬𝐡𝐢𝐢𝐢⁴⁵ (@rushiii_12) March 10, 2025

His words were Apne match dekha in which a fan replied, Haan Humne Match Dekha, Rohit Sharma aayega to ache se cheer karieyga badi mehnat ki hai usne. Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, Rohit khoob support kariye. 

Read more: List OF All Trophies Won By Rohit Sharma As Captain

Raina the main supporter

Raina has been the biggest supporter of team India though be in the team or out he was given various performances which is still remebered by many, though it be 2011 world cup or the 2013 Champions Trophy his significant contributions have given major impact. 

Raina has reciprocated a few of his innings which has ended in the well-being of the team. Even at the end he too shared his thoughts and views in the commentary panel which is been loved by all. 

The India-Pakistan cricket rivalry is always heated, but this time it wasn't the match alone that was in the limelight andit was the commentary.

Sarfaraz : "Riwaz allah ka jap kar rahe hain"

Aakash Chopra : "Rohit Mahamrityunjay kar rahe hain"

Raina: "Virat Mahadev Bhakt hain and Abhi Mahashivratri bhi hain"

We got Mahadev vs Allah in commentary 😭 #INDvsPAK

— Div🦁 (@div_yumm) February 23, 2025

Short Video of this -pic.twitter.com/bA3Ni12GKT

— Div🦁 (@div_yumm) February 23, 2025

ALSO SEE: Watch: Hardik Pandya celebration after dismissing Babar Azam

During the match, Sarfaraz Ahmed said, "Riwaz Allah ka jap kar rahe hain," meaning religious rituals. Aakash Chopra retorted with, "Rohit Mahamrityunjay kar rahe hain," associating it with Hindu prayers. Suresh Raina then joined in, "Virat Mahadev Bhakt hain and abhi Mahashivratri bhi hain."

The conversation quickly went viral, with fans reacting in different ways. Some saw it as a fun and unique moment, while others felt that cricket commentary should stay focused on the game.

Social media has been buzzing with debates—should religious references be a part of sports commentary, or should broadcasters avoid them altogether?

What’s your take on this?

The Maha Kumbh Mela, a huge and holy event which occurs every 12 years in India, is a magnet to millions of devotees in quest of spiritual renewal. In 2025, the Mela at Prayagraj did not see just pilgrims, but a few well-known cricketers of India too, who walked the banks of the holy Sangam to experience this phenomenon.

Among the cricketers who made it to the Maha Kumbh Mela were past and present stars, some of whom tweeted and spoke in interviews about the experience, sharing how spiritually rewarding the event was.

Suresh Raina 

Mary Kom and Suresh Raina went for a dip in the Ganga at the weekend. Raina shared images from his dip on social media, whereas Mary Kom was spotted enjoying herself to the fullest at the spot. Raina went onto social media to share a small peep into his spiritual experience and termed his visit an experience to remember.

Just had an unforgettable darshan experience at Mahakumbh! Felt the divine energy & spirituality of the gathering. Blessed to be a part of this sacred event #Mahakumbh #Darshan #SpiritualExperience #DivineBlessings" pic.twitter.com/j7gClY6DWc

— Suresh Raina🇮🇳 (@ImRaina) January 25, 2025

Anil Kumble

ALSO SEE : Best Ruled Out XI for Champions Trophy 2025

Anil Kumble and his wife came to Prayagraj on Tuesday and had a holy dip on Magh Purnima, a day without VIP security. They came to the holy confluence by boat, sharing the experience like common pilgrims.

Blessed 🙏🏽#MahaKumbh #Prayagraj pic.twitter.com/OFY6T3yF5F

— Anil Kumble (@anilkumble1074) February 12, 2025

R.P.Singh

former Indian cricketer and T20 World Cup-winning pacer RP Singh attended the event and lauded the government for handling everything well

#WATCH | Prayagraj, UP | On #MahaKumbhMela2025, Cricketer RP Singh says, "I have come here for the second time. The management here is great and I am very fortunate that I got the opportunity of Kumbh Snan in this time period... It is difficult to think how 50 crore people could… pic.twitter.com/olW4RkOOre

— ANI (@ANI) February 17, 2025

Sunil Gavaskar

Gavaskar visits the Sangam in Prayagraj during the Mahakumbh.

Sunil Gavaskar takes a holy dip at Sangam in Prayagraj during Mahakumbh. 🙏✨#Cricket #India #BCCI #SunilGavaskar pic.twitter.com/RSIe4P872L

— Sportskeeda (@Sportskeeda) February 18, 2025

Mohammad Kaif

ALSO SEE : Virat Kohli vs. Babar Azam: A Battle of Modern-Day Batting Greats

Former Indian cricketer Mohammad Kaif visited Prayagraj ahead of the Maha Kumbh festival and took a dip in the Yamuna River.

Abe isi Jamuna ji mein tairaki seekha hoon 😀 #sangam #prayagraj pic.twitter.com/yVs67yJMWb

— Mohammad Kaif (@MohammadKaif) December 29, 2024

Jay shah

ICC Chairman Jay Shah, along with his family, arrived at Prayagraj on January 27 to attend the Maha Kumbh, a festival steeped in spirituality and tradition.

#WATCH | #MahaKumbh2025 | Saints bless the baby boy of Jay Shah - ICC chairman and son of Union Home Minister Amit Shah in Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh. pic.twitter.com/97qA7hwuOb

— ANI (@ANI) January 27, 2025

#WATCH | Union Home Minister Amit Shah along with his family, in the presence of several saints and CM Yogi Adityanath, performs 'aarti' at Triveni Sangam during #Mahakumbh2025 in Prayagraj pic.twitter.com/K8bftnGKwg

— ANI (@ANI) January 27, 2025

Apart from Shah, his son and ICC chairman Jay Shah also visited the Maha Kumbh. Clad in saffron attire like his father, the cricket administrator sought blessings from the seers for his newborn son.