What are your earliest memories of playing cricket & who inspired you to take up the game?
As far as I can look back I only remember myself playing cricket on streets of my town. In my early days played cricket in Mumbai for time shield trophy which still holds very special to me because that is when I met Sachin for the first time and made up my mind that I'm going to play for my country one day. Inspiration clearly came from watching legendary players on TV like Andy Flower, Brian Lara, Mathew Hayden and Sorauv Ganguly.
Who were your heroes when growing up?
When did you score your first ever century and who was it against?
Year 2000 playing for Air India where I scored double hundred in a three days game. Also received man of the tournament.
When did you realise cricket could become a full time career?
Since I played, cricket was passion and never ever weighed it in terms of a career opportunity. Since I was little I knew this is what I want to pursue with full dedication.
How did you find out you were going to make your professional debut and how did that feel?
I was selected for India under 19 tour to England after doing well in domestic matches so I knew that I am going to selected for the series. Representing my country at the level of course was very special and proud moment for me. After that I played many matches for a county club in England where I could show my calibre and give an outstanding performance which then led to a good performance at the first class matches.
Describe the moments building up to scoring a century on your Test debut.
I was selected for test after playing 98 one days. I felt acknowledged and very supported during that series by senior players in the team like Virendra Sehwag. While scoring towards century of course there was a lot of nervousness and I remember I was then partnering with Sachin who told me to just enjoy the match fullest and give my best. Which was really motivating. Sehwag even gave me his special "blue baggy" cap to me after scoring 100 at the debut test match.
Of all the centuries you have made, is there one that really stands out?
After losing the test series in England year 2014 when we played one days I scored 100 in Cardiff definitely stands out for me. I was then chosen as man of the series, immense pleasure for sure.
Which games have been truly memorable and why?
Playing against Pakistan in 2011 World Cup semi-final. Match was highly intense and full of pressure. I completely focused on making it a win and getting into finals.
Which grounds do you enjoy playing at and why?
For me what makes a game enjoyable is the challenge we gonna face and how well we deal with it. However Wankhede stadium is little special to me for winning 2011 World Cup making it a most memorable experience of my life so far.
Do you follow any other sports and if so, what is your favourite sporting memory away from cricket?
Suresh Raina
Follow on Twitter @ImRaina
Memory added on July 14, 2015
1 Comment (Add your voice)
My favourite was the ipl match in which he scored 87(25). That play was just fabulous!
– Abcd, July 15 2015 at 18:41