There was a time during Indian batting in the world cup semi-final against Pakistan when India was hovering around 200 and had lost its six wickets, there was a strong chance that India might not be able to play out whole 50 overs. But then Raina showed his class and made a vital score of 36 runs with good strike rate as well. He was undefeated as well. This master innings was enough for India to put a match winning target of 261 runs. He was the only batsman looked in total control during his innings after Sehwag.
This is Suresh Raina second vital innings, earlier in quarter final he played a vital role when they were chasing 260 against Australia. It should be remembered that when Raina was included in quarter final's squad in replacement of Yousuf Pathan, many cricket gurus were criticizing Dhoni. But this left handed batsman has certainly proved his worth and replied strongly to his critics.
