There is just one name on everyone’s lips when Chennai Super Kings return to your fort of Chepauk after 1400 days to play IPL. M. S. Dhoni, who hasn’t appeared in front of his supporters since April 2019, is back. For the first time since 2008, all of MA Chidambaram Stadium’s stands are open to the public following renovations. Dhoni ruled out retiring from the IPL last year, saying that his aim is to play his final season in front of his adoptive home in Chennai. But, it is unlikely that Dhoni will retire from the league in 2023 because MSD’s presence at Chepauk has enraged the audience.
The Chennai crowd went wild in response to MS Dhoni’s response. (screen capture)
After winning the toss, Lucknow Super Giants captain KL Rahul may have urged CSK to bat, but Dhoni received the biggest cheer when Ian Bishop questioned him about visiting the stadium again. Even when speaking into a microphone, one had to listen very attentively to hear all the words due to the decibel levels.
The first few stands were empty, but the team said, “It means a lot to be back here. The IPL started in 2008, but we haven’t played much cricket here. We have only been here for maybe 5-6 seasons. This is the first time the full stadium will be functioning.” After the toss, Dhoni said, “Very delighted that we get to play all our home games at Chepauk, it means a lot.
And what better way to make a tremendous return than for CSK to win? CSK lost their season opener against the defending champion Gujarat Titans by five wickets, but a win today will give Chennai and its visitors something to smile about. We must continue to evaluate our circumstances and our objectives; we must also keep in mind a realistic objective and proceed from there.
LSG skipper Rahul stated, “We will bowl first. MA Chidambaram Stadium is not known for its large totals. In fact, the first innings average at this venue is between 150-160, which makes it fairly hard for the team batting later. We want to be aware of our objectives.