Suresh Raina
CHENNAI: Former India player Suresh Raina sparked a row after equating his upper caste identity with Chennai culture during Tamil Nadu Premier League commentary on Monday.
During the TNPL opener between Lyca Kovai Kings and Salem Spartans, Raina - who dons the Chennai Super Kings jersey in the IPL since 2008 - was asked by commentators about his long relationship with the city.
The 34-year-old replied, I think I am also brahmin. I have been playing since 2004 in Chennai, I love the culture. I love my teammates. I have played with Anirudha Srikanth, Badri (S Badrinath), Bala Bhai (L Balaji). We have a good administration at CSK and we have the licence to explore ourselves. I love the culture there, and I m lucky to be part of CSK.