Raina was part of the Dhoni-led Chennai Super Kings, now a suspended IPL franchise, for eight years and it will be for the first time that he will play against his ex-captain.
"We (Gujarat Lions) have started new season with a new team on a positive note after winning the first game. And we will play positive cricket against the opposition in tomorrow's game," Raina told reporters at the pre-match conference.
"Gujarat Lions is a team from Gujarat and we all are excited about the crowd support for us," he said.
"Dhoni is a cricketer, who gets support from every corner of the country but we too have some cricketers, who are popular in India and in Gujarat" he said.
Asked about local boy Ravindra Jadeja, Raina said he has given the team some useful tips regarding the ground and pitch condition.
You’ve reached your limit of {{free_limit}} free articles this month.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
Already subscribed? Log in
Subscribe to read the full story →
Smart Quarterly
₹900
3 Months
₹300/Month
Smart Essential
₹2,700
1 Year
₹225/Month
Super Saver
₹3,900
2 Years
₹162/Month
Renews automatically, cancel anytime
Here’s what’s included in our digital subscription plans
Exclusive premium stories online
Over 30 premium stories daily, handpicked by our editors


Complimentary Access to The New York Times
News, Games, Cooking, Audio, Wirecutter & The Athletic
Business Standard Epaper
Digital replica of our daily newspaper — with options to read, save, and share


Curated Newsletters
Insights on markets, finance, politics, tech, and more delivered to your inbox
Market Analysis & Investment Insights
In-depth market analysis & insights with access to The Smart Investor


Archives
Repository of articles and publications dating back to 1997
Ad-free Reading
Uninterrupted reading experience with no advertisements


Seamless Access Across All Devices
Access Business Standard across devices — mobile, tablet, or PC, via web or app
