Daijiworld Media Network - New Delhi
New Delhi, Mar 25: Legendary cricketer MS Dhoni has named Mumbai’s Wankhede Stadium as one of his favorite cricket venues, alongside Chennai Super Kings’ (CSK) home ground, MA Chidambaram Stadium, popularly known as Chepauk.
Wankhede holds a special place in Dhoni’s heart, as it was the venue where he led India to its historic ICC ODI World Cup triumph in 2011 after a 28-year-long wait. Meanwhile, Chepauk has been Dhoni’s second home, having played for CSK since the inception of the Indian Premier League (IPL) in 2008, except for two seasons.
"I wouldn’t say I have a second favorite because we get the same kind of reception almost everywhere. But Mumbai holds a soft corner in my heart. In 2007, after winning the T20 World Cup, we returned to a warm reception here. The 2011 final also took place at Wankhede, creating unforgettable memories," Dhoni shared during 'The MS Dhoni Experience' on JioHotstar.
At 43, Dhoni admitted that choosing just one stadium in India is difficult due to the passionate cricket fanbase across the country. However, he highlighted Chepauk’s electrifying atmosphere.
"Chepauk is special because of the fans. With the whistle, they are extremely loud," he said. Notably, Dhoni holds the record for most sixes hit at Chepauk, with 74 sixes in 70 matches. He has also accumulated 1,469 runs at a strike rate of 145.15, including 93 boundaries at the venue.
Dhoni acknowledged the incredible atmosphere in stadiums across India. "Bangalore’s crowd is amazing; their loud cheers stay inside the stadium. Kolkata, with its huge capacity, is always energetic. Now, Ahmedabad also has a massive crowd. It’s difficult to pick one because every venue has fans who come with all their heart to support their teams and cricket," he explained.
Reflecting on the immense love he receives from fans in the IPL, Dhoni expressed gratitude for their unwavering support. "I have always believed that fans expressing their love is their way of saying ‘thank you’ for what I have done. Whatever time I have left in cricket, I see it as their appreciation," he said.
He further emphasized the significance of fan appreciation in sports. "When you play a sport, what you truly want is the love of the fans. India is the best place to experience that in cricket. Being part of the Indian cricket team was an honor, and though I am no longer playing international cricket, the IPL is the next best thing. The excitement of fans, their anticipation, and their support, even when I play against their favorite teams, is an incredible feeling," he added.
Dhoni’s immense popularity was evident last year when he stepped out to bat against Lucknow Super Giants at Ekana Stadium. The crowd’s roaring cheers reached a staggering 95 decibels—an intensity that can cause temporary hearing loss after 10 minutes of exposure.