Debasis Sen, Centurion: In a bid to cement his place back in the Indian team, Suresh Raina is focusing himself on the upcoming T20I series against South Africa. The left hander, who made his last appearance in the shorter format in February, last year wants to make the most of the opportunity. The 31 year old arrived from Dubai to Johannesburg last evening along with KL Rahul and Jaydev Unadkat. All three of them were seen going through a rigorous practice session at the nets of the Super Sport Park in Centurion.
The left hander before leaving India, told India Today, “It feels like I’ve been selected to the Indian team for the first time.
“I have worked hard for the past two years, so when I saw my India jersey I felt a bit emotional that I got the jersey after quite a while.
“Like you said, the three games will be quite important. I have done well in whatever opportunities I have got [recently].
“These T20 matches are important, then the Tri Series in Colombo and IPL.
Raina was troubled by a shoulder injury which forced him out of action. But the stylish southpaw has fully recovered and has made himself available to bowl as well if needed.
“I am also prepared to bowl three-four overs. My shoulder is solid too. You see, you need to chip in, bowl well, field well, so that the captain feels ‘yeah, this fellow is a utility player at No. 4-5,'” said Raina.
The first T20I between the Proteas and India will take place at the Wanderers on Sunday followed by games in Centurion and at Newlands.