Will compete against MS Dhoni with full 'sportsman spirit': Suresh Raina

Rajkot, Dec 15: They were inseparable during their eight seasons for the Chennai Super Kings but Suresh Raina will now be plotting Mahendra Singh Dhoni's downfall when Team Rajkot will face Team Pune in the 9th edition of IPL.

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Asked about his feelings, Raina said they would be competitive but at the same time would not lack "sportsman spirit" when pitted against his former IPL captain.

File photo: Dhoni (left) and Raina (right) with Jadeja in CSK colours during IPL

For the dashing left-hander, familiarity with Rajkot conditions will be an asset. "I am very much familiar with the condition of Rajkot as I have played many matches in junior category like U-16 and U-19," the 29-year-old left-handed batsman told reporters here.

When asked about his India and CSK teammate Ravindra Jadeja, who has also been picked up by Rajkot, Raina said,"Jadeja is a local boy. Both of us are familiar with conditions here and we will use this to our advantage".

The next edition of the IPL will be held from April 9 to May 29 with the opening and the final match in Mumbai.

PTI