England vs India 2018, 3rd ODI: 5 Talking Points

#3 Raina’s place in the team

A lot of questions arose when Suresh Raina got a recall to the Indian ODI squad. The major criticisms were based on his disappointing IPL form and domestic season. But, the selectors backed him due to his excellent ODI record in England.

However, Raina has not cemented his place in the team after 3 opportunities. He played a decent knock in the previous game but it was not enough to justify his selection. He looks like a pale shadow of the Raina who used to attack the bowlers with so much elegance and ease.

He is a bit conservative in his approach these days. There is no real intent from him while batting. Every time he comes out to bat, he looks nervous as he is under pressure to keep his place in the team. If he decides to just go out there and express himself rather than worrying about his spot, it might help him and India, which badly needs an experienced middle order batsman.