Suresh Raina who hasn’t played for India since last July wants to play for India once again. Raina, who is recovering from a knee injury, expects to a return in action from November and he is keen on playing at the back-to-back T20 World Cups in 2020 and 2021. With India searching for ideal combination in the middle order, the veteran Raina wants to play in that spot. Raina has played 78 T20Is, scoring 1605 runs including a century.

“Basically my left knee was cleaned up. I expect to be back playing in November,” Raina said to Sportstar. “I can be the No. 4 for India. I have batted in that slot before and delivered. I am looking forward to an opportunity with two T20 World Cups coming up.”

Rishabh Pant is playing at that spot right now but he is going through a rough phase with the bat. However, Pant got the backing of Raina, who asked the youngster to play his brand of fearless cricket.

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“He appears confused, is not playing his natural game. He is looking for singles, blocking, and appears lost,” added Raina. “Someone needs to talk to him as MS Dhoni would do to players. Cricket is a mental game and Pant has to be backed to play his attacking brand of cricket. Right now he seems to be playing under instructions and it is not working.”

Suresh Raina also said MS Dhoni still has plenty to offer Indian cricket.

“He is still fit, still a terrific wicket-keeper and still the greatest finisher in the game. Dhoni will be an asset to India in the T20 World Cup. Only Dhoni will decide when he leaves the game,” he concluded.