Raina left CSK camp due to dissatisfaction over hotel accommodation, behaved like a prima donna: N Srinivasan

The problems in the CSK camp do not seem to end at the moment, with reports surfacing that a supposed ‘rift’ took place between Suresh Raina and skipper MS Dhoni.

According to the Outlook, Raina seemed to have been dissatisfied with the hotel room he was allotted, citing the non-existence of proper balconies. Raina, fondly nicknamed ‘Mr. IPL‘ due to his sumptuous record in the T20 League, demanded for a room similar identical to the one provided by MS Dhoni.

“Cricketers are like prima donnas … like the temperamental actors of the olden days. Chennai Super Kings have always been like a family and all seniors players have learnt to co-exist,” said CSK boss N Srinivasan. My thinking is that if you are reluctant or not happy, go back. I don’t force anyone to do anything … sometimes success gets into your head.”

ALSO READ: IPL 2020: 5 Players who can replace Suresh Raina at no.3 for Chennai Super Kings (CSK)

“The season has not begun yet and Raina will certainly realise what he is missing and certainly all the money (11 crores per season) he is going to lose.”

Raina had a hard time adjusting to the bio-bubble; according to reports

The fact that CSK have two players and several staff members who tested positive for COVID-19, and the stringent protocols of the bio-bubble may have forced Raina to crack under the claustrophobic atmosphere.

The two players infected by COVID-19 are pacer Deepak Chahar and opening batsman Ruturaj Gaikwad. Srinivasan added that Dhoni gave him the assurance of the two players recovering from the virus soon enough due to their young age. 

ALSO READ: CSK players Deepak Chahar, Ruturaj Gaikwad tested positive for COVID-19, BCCI delays announcement of IPL schedule

“I spoke to MS (Dhoni) and he has assured me that even if the numbers go up, there was nothing to worry. He spoke to the players through a zoom call and asked them to remain safe. You really don’t know who is a passive carrier.”

Srinivasan stated that Raina’s exit might pave way for the young and talented Ruturaj Gaikwad, who has made a big name for himself with bucketloads of runs to his name in domestic Cricket. “He is an outstanding batsman and will get a chance now. Ruturaj can become the star of the show, who knows?” the CSK chief said.