Suresh Raina Quits Mahendra Singh Dhoni's Sports Management Company

Suresh Raina, whose business deals were managed by Mahendra Singh Dhoni-partnered Rhiti Sports, has split with his captain's company for greener pastures. He may be among Dhoni's most trusted lieutenants, but Raina is eyeing bigger bucks through IOS Sports & Entertainment, a company that recently took professional boxer Vijender Singh under its wings. (Raina Denies Cricketers' Involvement in Spot-Fixing)

Team India's Ravindra Jadeja, Mohit Sharma and Bhuvaneshwar Kumar were all managed by Rhiti. Interestingly, Jadeja, Raina, Mohit Sharma played under Dhoni in IPL team Chennai Super Kings. With Chennai's future in IPL uncertain and Dhoni possibly in the final couple of years of his limited overs career as India captain, Suresh Raina has made a quick business move.

IOS will now manage Raina's endorsements and brand associations, corporate profile, patents and digital rights, images, visibility on social networking sites and merchandise. The three-year deal will reportedly fetch the newly-married 28-year-old batting star a whopping Rs 35 crores. (Dhoni, Bravo Attend Raina's Wedding)

Suresh Raina is the first cricketer IOS has signed. Vijender asides, IOS manages boxer MC Mary Kom, star wrestler Sushil Kumar and shooter Gagan Narang among other Olympians.

"I am sure we will have a great partnership working together. Raina has been very consistent in all formats of the game and has the flexibility to adapt and play as the situation demands," said Neerav Tomar of IOS. Raina will celebrate 10 years of his international debut on July 30.

Suresh Raina is aware endorsements come only after performing in the cricket field.

"A lot of this target (35 Crore) will be based on his on-field performance and getting leadership positions in the future, including in the IPL," Tomar said.

(With agency inputs)