‘This is the first time…’: MS Dhoni’s special words for Chepauk crowd in IPL 2023

MS Dhoni also enjoys a cult following among cricket fans, especially those who support the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in the Indian Premier League (IPL).
Dhoni has been the captain of CSK since the inception of the IPL in 2008, and under his leadership, the team has won three IPL titles, in 2010, 2011, and 2018.
The love and adoration that CSK fans have for Dhoni are unparalleled in the world of cricket.
This was once again visible during the toss when commentator Ian Bishop spoke to Dhoni and before the 41-year-old could speak there was a massive roar from the crowd.
“Does mean a lot to be back here. IPL started in 2008 but we’ve not played a lot of cricket here,” said Dhoni at the Toss.
“Only about 5-6 seasons we’ve been here. This is the first time the full stadium will be operational, a few stands were empty earlier.
“Really glad that we get to play all our home games here at Chepauk, means a lot. Same squad for this game. Need to keep assessing our situation and keep revisiting our targets, keep a realic goal in mind and take it from there,” he added.

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— Main Dheet Hoon (@MainDheetHoon69) April 3, 2023
Lucknow Super Giants captain KL Rahul won the toss and opted to bowl against Chennai Super Kings on Monday.
LSG made one change from their previous match playing XI with Yash Thakur replacing Jaydev Unadkat. CSK are unchanged.
Teams: Lucknow Super Giants- KL Rahul (c), Kyle Mayers, Deepak Hooda, Krunal Pandya, Marcus Stoinis, Nicholas Pooran (wk), Ayush Badoni, Avesh Khan, Ravi Bishnoi, Yash Thakur, Mark Wood.
Chennai Super Kings- MS Dhoni (c/wk), Devon Conway, Ruturaj Gaikwad, Moeen Ali, Ben Stokes, Ambati Rayudu, Shivam Dube, Ravindra Jadeja, Mitchell Santner, Deepak Chahar, Rajvardhan Hangargekar