I think he is one of the classiest left handers in the world. Soft spot for lefties (being one myself). I loved his innings at Wellington and I think he is a proper Test batsman, not like that hack Sehwag.
Will be backing Karthik to the fullest here. Just don't see Raina as a captain, I would have given it to Hayden, Badri, or even Murali. Albie Morkel, even.
But Karthik! :banana2 Hope he shines. He's been a good captain for TN/South Zone so should have no problems.