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Former Chennai Super Kings (CSK) batter Ambati Rayudu has stirred up a debate ahead of CSK’s high-profile IPL 2025 clash against Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB). The ex-India cricketer believes that fans at MA Chidambaram Stadium support MS Dhoni first rather than the franchise itself.
Rayudu, who played a crucial role in CSK’s IPL triumphs, pointed out that the “Dhoni, Dhoni” chants dominate the atmosphere, making it intimidating for new players. Speaking on ESPNCricinfo, he emphasized how deeply Dhoni’s legacy is embedded within CSK’s fanbase.
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Rayudu’s Bold Take on CSK Fan Culture
“It is quite daunting if you’re a newcomer. It’s quite loud. The support is phenomenal. But as you go on and play, you realize they are MS Dhoni fans before they are CSK fans,” Rayudu remarked.
He further explained that the franchise has been built around Dhoni’s leadership, which has made him a cult figure in Chennai.
“It is quite evident, and rightly so, because that’s the way the team has been set up and built over the years. He’s rightly named ‘Thala’ [leader], and he has been calling the shots in CSK. It’s come to a stage where people are madly in awe and in love with what he’s done for CSK,” he added.
What Happens After Dhoni Retires?
Rayudu also raised concerns about CSK’s future after Dhoni’s retirement, questioning whether the franchise has built another cricketer capable of pulling the crowds.
“It will be quite challenging. Not only for the players or Chennai, but definitely for the franchise itself, because to attract crowds like that, even on weekdays, the stands are full, the engagement is amazing. There is no cricketer close to him, to be honest.
“They haven’t built up any other guy in the franchise to pull the crowds because it has always revolved around MS Dhoni,” Rayudu further stated.
Dhoni’s Legacy in CSK
Rayudu’s comments echo what Ravindra Jadeja had previously said during IPL 2023, when he pointed out how CSK fans chanted for Dhoni instead of supporting other players.
Meanwhile, Navjot Singh Sidhu compared Dhoni and Virat Kohli to institutions, stating that their relevance will never fade even after they step away from the game.
As CSK prepares for their blockbuster match against RCB, Rayudu’s remarks have certainly added an extra layer of intrigue to the contest. Will the Yellow Army prove their love for CSK beyond Dhoni? Only time will tell!
