Suresh Raina Credits Smart Batting For Win Over Zimbabwe

Indian middle-order batsman Suresh Raina attributed his side’s six-wicket World Cup win over Zimbabwe in Auckland on Saturday to 'smart batting'.

Raina, who was awarded the man-of-the-match for his flamboyant unbeaten knock of 110 from 104 deliveries, stated that the flawless performance during powerplay overs proved crucial in his side’s successful chase.

"The idea was to bat smartly,” said Raina after compiling his maiden World Cup century.

“I am glad we were able to do it really well in the end.

“Once MS (Dhoni) came, it certainly helped as well.

“When the team needed me the most, I just wanted to be positive and smart, especially in the powerplays."

Chasing 288 for their sixth successive win in the 2015 World Cup, India were reduced to 92 for four at one stage before Raina joined forces with Dhoni for an unbeaten 196-run partnership which took their side home with eight balls to spare.

"I am glad the hard work came off.

“I thought the wicket was really good, and if ever I got the ball I can go after, then I would go after it."

Raina, who has featured in several match-winning partnerships with Dhoni, credited the comfort level with the Indian captain as the key to their success.

With an aggregate of 3480 runs at an average of 62.14, the Raina-Dhoni partnership holds the record for best average by any pair in ODIs (minimum 3000 runs).

Their 196-run stand at Eden Park on Saturday was also India’s highest World Cup partnership for any wicket in a successful chase

"MS and I have played a lot of matches together, and have finished a lot of matches together.
“MS told me that I just can't smash every ball, but he did back my strengths on the field.”

The century against Zimbabwe was the fifth of Raina’s ODI career and the left-hander rated it as one of his finest knocks.

"This knock means a lot to me.

“I got one in the U-19 World Cup and now once again here, so it's great.

“People in coaching staff like Sanjay Bangar and Ravi Shastri have been telling us to do that and I am glad I could."

Having remained unbeaten throughout the league stage, India will take on Bangladesh in their quarter-final on 19th March at the Melbourne Cricket Ground.

© Cricket World 2015