IPL 2020: Harsha Bhogle reveals Suresh Raina was 'desperate' to do well for Chennai Super Kings

Indian cricket commentator Harsha Bhogle expressed his thoughts after veteran Chennai Super Kings (CSK) cricketer Suresh Raina, who recently announced his retirement from international cricket along with MS Dhoni, will not be playing in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020. In a statement released by the franchise CEO Kasi Viswanathan, it read, “Suresh Raina has returned to India for personal reasons and will be unavailable for the remainder of the IPL season. Chennai Super Kings offers complete support to Suresh and his family during this time.” The latest development is a further blow to the Chennai Super Kings campaign, which is presently in disarray after one team player and 11 staff members were tested positive for the coronavirus on Friday.

There is still no confirmed reports as to why Raina was leaving the Chennai Super Kings team but this continues their woeful start prior to the IPL. The coronavirus impact on the three-time champions side has put their entire preparation in disarray. 

Reacting to this news, Bhogle took to Twitter and wrote: "Heart goes out to @ImRaina who is having to miss out on the #Dream11IPL for personal reasons."

"I know how desperate he was to do well. Huge blow to @ChennaiIPL. They have the resources to recover but then Raina and CSK are so intertwined," he added.

Heart goes out to @ImRaina who is having to miss out on the #Dream11IPL for personal reasons. Having spoken to him recently on @cricbuzz, I know how desperate he was to do well. Huge blow to @ChennaiIPL. They have the resources to recover but then Raina and CSK are so intertwined

— Harsha Bhogle (@bhogleharsha) August 29, 2020

In Abu Dhabi, Mumbai Indians and Kolkata Knight Riders began their practice sessions after being in quarantine for close to six days. Rajasthan Royals and Kings XI PUnjab have also started training as they were the earliest to come to the UAE. However, the situation in Chennai Super Kings is proving to be worrisome and it will take a lot of effort to ensure the tournament goes through without any more COVID mishaps.