NEW DELHI: MS Dhoni's fan following is nothing short of a phenomenon in the world of cricket. Whenever the legend makes his way to the middle, the atmosphere electrifies with anticipation. As Dhoni takes guard, the excitement reaches a crescendo. Every stroke of his bat is met with thunderous applause, every boundary and six greeted with fervent chants of adulation.
Dhoni's former CSK teammate and ex-India cricketer
Ambati Rayudu
feels Chennai Super Kings fans belong to the 2011 World Cup-winning captain.
"Even when you hit a six and a four the crowd is silent, me and Jadeja felt that in the last few years. I really believe when I say this, that CSK fans are MS Dhoni fans first, and CSK fans later. Even Jadeja gets frustrated, but he cannot do anything," Rayudu said on Star Sports.
In a highly anticipated showdown against the Rajasthan Royals, the Chennai Super Kings secured a pivotal victory on Sunday.
The Yellow Brigade rose to the occasion, orchestrating a commanding five-wicket win, thereby keeping their aspirations for a spot in the IPL playoffs alive and kicking.
Following this triumph, CSK ascended to the third position on the points table, bolstering their standing in the fiercely contested tournament.
Post-match, emotions soared at the MA Chidambaram Stadium as fans reveled in witnessing the heartwarming reunion between their revered 'Thala' Dhoni and his former teammate Suresh Raina, affectionately dubbed 'Chinna Thala' by supporters.
CSK commemorated their triumph with a celebratory lap around the hallowed Chepauk Stadium. Amidst the jubilant atmosphere, cricket stalwarts Dhoni and Raina embraced, spreading joy among fans as they distributed tennis balls using racquets as memorabilia.
Despite being the defending champions, CSK, who concluded their final group fixture at the Chennai stronghold, are still striving to secure their berth in the playoffs, adding an extra layer of suspense to their campaign.