Chennai Super Kings (CSK) faced a heavy blow in their most recent Indian Premier League (IPL) 2023 match against Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), suffering a six-wicket defeat on Sunday (May 14) at MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chepauk. This loss prevented CSK from securing the top position in the points table, although they currently hold second place with 15 points from 13 matches. Despite the defeat, CSK fans and players embraced the game as it marked the final group stage match at Chepauk in IPL 2023.
Throughout this season, CSK emerged victorious in four out of seven matches held in Chennai. However, fans were particularly interested in witnessing MS Dhoni’s presence at Chepauk for what could potentially be his last IPL season. Although there hasn’t been any official update on Dhoni’s retirement, many believe the CSK skipper will bid farewell to the IPL after this season. Over the years, Dhoni has garnered a substantial fanbase in Chennai, with fans from CSK and beyond flocking to the venues in increasing numbers this season.
The limitless devotion of Dhoni’s fanbase was once again on display at Chepauk when the former Indian captain and legendary batter Sunil Gavaskar rushed onto the ground to take Dhoni’s autograph. The veteran wicketkeeper-batter graciously signed Gavaskar’s shirt and, accompanied by his teammates, took a celebratory lap of honour. This act further delighted the fans, as CSK players shared signed jerseys and tennis balls during their lap, adding to the excitement of the occasion.
Legendary! MS Dhoni Signs Autograph On Sunil Gavaskar's Shirt During CSK's Lap Of Honour at Chepauk
This is surreal ♥️
Best Day of my Life 🥹
You are OG @mahi7781 🤌🏻
Best moments of IPL 2023 so far#IPL2023 #CSKvKKR #dhoni #csk #autograph #MSDhoni pic.twitter.com/M3AixAWF08— Sonik Roonwal (@RoonwalSonik) May 14, 2023
𝙔𝙚𝙡𝙡𝙤𝙫𝙚! 💛
A special lap of honour filled with memorable moments ft. @msdhoni & Co. and the ever-so-energetic Chepauk crowd 🤗#TATAIPL | #CSKvKKR | @ChennaiIPL pic.twitter.com/yHntEpuHNg
— IndianPremierLeague (@IPL) May 14, 2023
The Super Kings may return to Chepauk later in the season, as the venue is scheduled to host the Qualifier 1 and Eliminator fixtures. If CSK manages to secure a top-two position in the group stage, their fans can witness the four-time champions in action during Qualifier 1 on May 23. However, if the Dhoni-led side finishes in the third or fourth position, CSK will return to Chepauk on May 24 for the Eliminator .
CSK’s journey in the group stage will conclude with their last match against the bottom-placed Delhi Capitals (DC) at Arun Jaitley Stadium in Delhi on May 20. The team aims to conclude the IPL 2023 season on a high note and secure a favourable position for the playoffs.
