Thousands of supporters gathered at Chepauk as MS Dhoni batted ahead of CSK’s IPL 2023 opener against Gujarat Titans.
MS Dhoni is a name in Indian cricket that few can match. Despite the fact that the wicket-keeper batter retired from international cricket years ago, supporters still line up in droves to catch a glimpse of the legendary cricketer. Dhoni came out for a practise exercise at Chepauk, with thousands of fans in attendance, ahead of Chennai Super Kings’ IPL 2023 opener against defending champions Gujarat Titans. The entire stadium erupted as Dhoni strolled onto the field, cheering for Chennai’s favourite son.
Dhoni is the Super Kings’ only full-time captain, with the exception of Ravindra Jadeja, who held the position for a brief stretch last season. Dhoni joined the club in IPL 2008 and has performed admirably in the yellow jersey. Many believe that the IPL 2023 season will be his final as a competitor.
During a practise exercise, the crowd greeted MS Dhoni as follows:
Even though his batting ability hasn’t yielded the desired results, the 41-year-old Dhoni, with his bulging biceps and never-failing flash reflexes, remains a top attraction.
Despite having led the team to four championships and nine finals, his sheer presence causes the opposition to think outside the box. No one understands the tangibles like the guy from Ranchi, and in what could be his final season as a professional cricketer, he may still have some aces up his sleeve.
CSK will play seven games at “Fortress Chepauk” this season, as the IPL returns to its traditional home and away schedule. After failing to compete for the play-offs last season, Dhoni, who reclaimed the captaincy from an irate Ravindra Jadeja, would undoubtedly like to leave on a high note. If he intends to leave as well, ‘Captain Marvel’ is never certain.
Keeping CSK out of competition in the IPL is always a risk, and this edition will be no exception. And, with England all-rounder Ben Stokes among their numbers, CSK will have a commanding presence.
