Indian cricketer Suresh Raina is "very excited" to play in the upcoming edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL), however, said the heat would be a "big challenge" playing in the UAE.

"Very excited, taking a flight after 5-6 months making me feel that I am back on track. Playing in the UAE will be interesting since we have played there before. UAE is known for the great hospitality and they have the experience for putting up big sporting events, so I am really looking forward to that," Raina told ANI.