Former Chennai Super Kings batter Suresh Raina remains one of the most successful players in the history of the Indian Premier League (IPL). Raina, who spent most of his IPL career with CSK, has tasted success in the T20 league. While Chennai have had a strong team for almost the entire IPL journey, it's also their culture that has helped the management get the most out of the players. One of those cultures included the rule of not partying till late.
Raina, in an interview, took a subtle dig at franchises that haven't won the IPL yet, saying only those have not won (the league) who are used to partying.
"Chennai never partied. That's why they have been the most successful. 2-3 teams who partied have not won the IPL yet. Laugs (Do you mean RCB?). No, there are a few teams who haven't won, they must have partied hard," Suresh Raina said in a chat on Lallantop.
"We (CSK) didn't do it. That's why we have 5 IPL trophies and 2 Champions League trophies. MI also have won 5 trophies," he further added.
Raina called out the culture of certain franchises where late-night parties happen. The former India star didn't hesitate in questioning how a team can win the IPL with such trends.
"If you party late into the night, how will you play in the morning? In May-June's heat, how will you play afternoon games if you have partied all night?" Raina added.
"The entire team was particular about not partying late into the night. We are also playing for India, keep in mind. If I don't play well, why will my captain select me? Now, I am free, I have retired. We can party," Raina further explained.
Raina, one of the top run-getters in IPL history, is now enjoying his career as a commentator in the ongoing IPL 2024.