As per Raina, like Dhoni, SKY (As Suryakumar Yadav is popularly known) has the potential to make a substantial impact in the death overs.

“If anyone can make a huge impact in the death overs apart from MS Dhoni, then it’s Suryakumar Yadav,” said Raina during an interview.

Notably, SKY had a rough year in ODIs. However, he returned to form in style right before the World Cup, smashing two half-centuries during the ODI series against formidable Australia. But, his place in the playing XI remains uncertain for India’s opening match against Australia in Chennai on Sunday in the ongoing ICC ODI World Cup 2023.

With all-rounder Hardik Pandya returning to the side and right-handed batsman Shreyas Iyer also among the runs, Suryakumar could likely be on the bench for the all-important match.

Moreover, Raina believes that promising batter Shubman Gill will be India’s ‘strongest card’ for the mega event.

“Shubman Gill will be India’s strongest card. He has been in stunning form and has figured out how he needs to play in ODIs. He has spent some time with Virat and is batting with Rohit Sharma, who has hit double centuries. Gill has also hit a double century,” said the former aggressive southpaw.