Pathan, Raina want BCCI to allow Indians in T20 leagues

“I wish BCCI plans something with ICC or the franchises that Indian players get to play foreign leagues. At least allow us to play in two different foreign leagues. If we play quality cricket in terms of foreign leagues, it would be good for us. All international players make a comeback by playing in all those leagues,” Raina told the retired Pathan during an Instagram session.

On the other hand, Pathan said BCCI should at least allow those players who are not on the radar for international matches and also those who are over 30 years old to compete in foreign leagues. “There are different mindsets in different countries. Michael Hussey made his debut at the age of 29 for Australia. An Indian can never make his debut at the age of 30.

“I think as long as you are fit, you should be available to play for your country. I would suggest that all those players who are 30 years old and those who are not on your radar to play international matches, you should allow them to play in foreign leagues,” said Pathan.

Meanwhile, Raina would have been in action for Chennai Super Kings (CSK) if the Indian Premier League (IPL) had commenced on March 29. However, the tournament has been suspended indefinitely due to the coronavirus pandemic.

Amid the lockdown, IPL franchises have been posting fun videos to engage fans and in one such video posted by CSK, MS Dhoni can be seen pulling Suresh Raina’s leg.

In the video, Raina walks up to Dhoni and hugs him before the former jokingly reminds the batsman that his beard has turned white. They break into a laugh after that. CSK took to Twitter to post the video which read: “Like the sky! @msdhoni @ImRaina #WhistlePodu.”