Delirious CSK fans turn Chepauk stadium into indomitable fortress

CSK has been at the forefront of creating a niche identity for IPL teams, which has resulted in the cult following of the franchise. Braving the sweltering heat, ardent fans of CSK lined up the roads leading to Chepauk, creating a festive mood. With Chennai hosting only one match last year, the CSK faithful understandably turned up in droves to watch their favourite players in action.

Almost every time CSK plays at home, it turns the stadium into an indomitable fortress. The players use the crowd support to their advantage and make optimum use of the conditions.

The fact that CSK won its third IPL title last season after coming back from a two-year ban has heightened the levels of expectation and moods of optimism among the spectators.

It’s worth remembering that CSK is the only franchise in the IPL so far to have successfully defended its title. The air was filled with vociferous chants of Dhoni and Raina as fans wore their masks and smeared their faces with the CSK logo. Bharath, a devout follower of the Yellow Army, said he makes it a point to watch all CSK home matches at the stadium.

“Our year-long wait has ended and I have come with my family to cheer for my favourite team. I’m confident that the team will once again do the city proud by bringing laurels,” said the 38-year-old. For some, just the prospect of seeing Dhoni at close quarters was too tempting a prospect to miss out on. Dhoni, in a recent documentary on CSK’s journey to the title last year, recalled the outpouring of love his side received from the fans.

“Dhoni is the lucky mascot of this team and all the CSK fans feel blessed to have him lead our side. We are also delighted to see Virat Kohli in action although we don’t want his team to win tonight,” said a young enthusiast.