Why Suresh Raina Went Unsold in IPL 2022: Insights from RR Coach Kumar Sangakkara
Introduction to Suresh Raina's Auction Fate
Rajasthan Royals (RR) head coach, Kumar Sangakkara, recently provided an insightful commentary on why Suresh Raina, often referred to as 'Mr. IPL', found no takers in the IPL 2022 mega auction. Raina had a respectable reputation in the league, but several factors contributed to his unsold status.
Poor Performance and Reputation
Sangakkara explained that there are different perspectives when evaluating player performance. He stated, 'As the years go by, players change and reputations are also made new by younger players.' In Raina's case, his IPL reputation is outstanding, as evidenced by his performance over the years. However, his last season was marked by poor results.
Raina only managed a decent performance against the Delhi Capitals in the previous season, with other matches being far from ideal. His average for the season was disappointingly low at 17. This was unexpected given his historical performance and value in the tournament.
Reasons for Being Unsold
According to Sangakkara, the possible reasons for Raina not finding a bidder include his poor performance and the lack of domestic cricket experience. Not playing matches for a year would pose a significant challenge to a player's immediate performance readiness, especially in a fast-paced format like T20.
Similar concerns were voiced for Mahela Dhoni, who also went unsold. However, Dhoni's role as captain and his brand value provided a strong case for his inclusion. CSK benefited from Dhoni's skill in managing players, as evidenced by the performances of players like Watson and Moeen Ali during his watch.
It was highlighted that in a team of 11 players, one position could be secured on the basis of a captain's expertise. However, blending both strategic and financial considerations (such as team balance and player quality) is crucial and cannot be compromised merely due to a player's perceived past prestige.
Suresh Raina's Legacy and Value
Despite the challenges mentioned, it was acknowledged that Suresh Raina is undoubtedly the best T20 player. Often referred to as 'Mr. IPL', Raina has amassed the highest number of runs in IPL history. His career was marked by excellence, but the factors affecting his auction performance were indeed crucial.
In the 2022 IPL Mega Auction, Raina's base price was only 2 crores, reflecting his current market value. This lower bid indicates that the cricket fraternity recognized the transition period he was in.
Conclusion
The lack of immediate performance and the challenges faced in LED (Limited Earnings Due) format have certainly affected Raina's value in the auction. However, his past legacy and performances in the IPL cannot be ignored. The insights provided by Sangakkara highlight the complex decision-making process in cricket auctions and the blend of past and current performance that teams consider when making bidding decisions.
Despite the challenges, Suresh Raina's status as 'Mr. IPL' remains unchallenged. His contribution to the IPL format is a testament to his enduring impact on the game.