Top 5 Indian batting pairs in international cricket

#3 Mahendra Singh Dhoni - Suresh Raina

Here's a pair that has transcended all boundaries. From being partners who had each others' backs in the blue jersey, to being usual suspects in Chennai Super Kings' marauding run of form in multiple IPL seasons and Champions Leagues, the Dhoni-Raina story has come a long way.

Individually, they are both supremely talented batsmen, with very different styles and techniques. Put them together, when the team is under pressure and they become India's "super saver combo", according to what Sunil Gavaskar memorably said after Raina scored his maiden World Cup ton in 2015.

On that day, their unbeaten 196 run stand (Raina 100* and Dhoni 85*) took India home against Zimbabwe, also becoming the highest stand for any wicket for India in a successful chase in a World Cup match. Several such memorable partnerships form the essence of the magical duo.

India have won 27 and tied 1, out of the 31 games where Dhoni and Raina have made a stand greater than 50 runs.

Key numbers:

Span: 2005-

Innings: 101

Not-Outs: 11

Runs: 4354

High Score: 196*

Average: 48.37

Centuries: 10

Fifties: 21