Chennai Super Kings (CSK) batsman Suresh Raina has hinted that he might replace MS Dhoni as the team’s captain from next season of Indian Premier League (IPL). However, Raina also said that it is upto Dhoni to continue playing as long as he wants to. MS Dhoni Says 'Tennis-Ball Cricket' Behind His Glovework.

"He has done well in the last couple of years as a batsmen as well team mentor. So probably you may see me more next year when he is done but I need more of his calibre. But he will continue as long as he wants to play for Chennai, you know him and Chennai," Raina was quoted as saying by PTI.

This season Raina captained Super Kings and on both the occasions CSK lost. Raina admitted that Dhoni's absence as a batsman is something that hurts CSK more. "I think losing him (Dhoni) as a captain is not an issue, losing him as a batsman is always difficult for us. That's what happened for us against Hyderabad and Mumbai Indians,” he said. MS Dhoni and Men Perform the Lap of Honour to Thank Fans After CSK vs DC, IPL 2019 Tie (Watch Video).

"When he (Dhoni) comes to the crease a lot of pressure is created for other teams. When he is not in the team, we see the difference,” Raina added.

Defending champions CSK have already qualified for the IPL 2019 playoffs and currently lead the points table as well. Super Kings have won nine out 13 matches and have 18 points in their kitty. CSK now takes on Kings XI Punjab (KXIP) in their last first round match before the playoffs.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on May 02, 2019 10:57 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).