Suresh Raina shifts blame to constant shuffling for lack of runs

Raina struggled for runs in the recently-concluded ODI series against South Africa that India lost 2-3, making just 86 runs in five games. In fact, that was just a continuation of what has been a poor year personally for him. The 28-year-old has scored at an average of 32.31 this year, which is his lowest since 2011.

"I was batting way down the order — usually when 70 runs would be need of 40 balls. The batting order is getting shuffled. When you're waiting to bat, suddenly someone says: Now you're going, No, no, wait, let him go. So you've to plan a bit. You can't just go and smash sixes. The rules have changed,” Raina told DNA newspaper.

"If you try and get out, you have to bear with criticism too. It isn't easy…but I've learnt over the years that you'll get both success and failure, but you need to stay strong,” he added.

It was no surprise when Raina was omitted from the Test squad against South Africa. In fact the southpaw has not featured in a Test match since Australia at the start of this year. However, Raina, who is currently playing for Uttar Pradesh in the Ranji tie against Mumbai, has not been discouraged by his omission and is determined to use this opportunity to get back into form.

"I'm looking at this opportunity, working really hard and looking to spend time at this wicket. Age is on my side. Last time I got four hundreds in six games. I scored 140 against Mumbai. So cricket is all about hard work and belief. I just need to work hard on my batting, on fitness and be disciplined in the process. And learn from teammates. I am just looking to play a big innings,” Raina said.