Suresh Raina all set to feature in Moin-ud Dowlah Gold Cup

Indian batsman Suresh Raina was expected to be picked for the national team for limited-overs matches against Sri Lanka. However, that was not the case to be and chief selector MSK Prasad and his deputies saw better options in other youngsters. However, Raina, who was training hard to be fit ahead of the ODIs against Sri Lanka, will now play in the All India Coromandel King Moin-ud Dowlah Gold Cup.

He has signed up with the Air India team. Besides Raina, other Indian renowned cricketers like Naman Ojha and Jayant Yadav have also agreed to participate in the competition. The left-hander is sweating it out in Kanpur and has kept his fans updated about his sessions by uploading short clips of his training in social media. The manager of Air India confirmed Raina’s participation.

“Raina’s, Yadav’s and Ojha’s participation is confirmed,” said Manoj Sharma, Air India’s manager, while speaking to The New Indian Express. However, organisers Hyderabad Cricket Association (HCA) has not yet confirmed the 30-year old’s participation. Many teams from all over the country will participate in the tournament. Hyderabad will have two teams- HCA XI that will be captained by Ambati Rayudu and President’s XI.

Besides Raina, two other renowned cricketers will play for Air India. All-rounder Rajat Bhatia and hero of Kolkata Knight Riders’ first Indian Premier League (IPL) triumph Manvinder Bisla.

Yuvraj and Harbhajan might also join Air India

Another experienced star who was left out of the Indian team, Yuvraj Singh will also be seen donning Air India’s jersey, alongside spinner Harbhajan Singh. “It has not been confirmed yet. But, there is a chance that he (Yuvraj) and Harbhajan Singh might also join (Air India) in the days to come,” said Manoj. A total of 10 teams will be competing in the tournament that will be played between August 22-31.