On a sunny morning in Chennai, MS Dhoni joined in the preparations for the Indian Premier League season by spray-painting a bit, while taking a stroll around one of the stands at the MA Chidambaram Stadium. Accompanied by CSK manager Russell Radhakrishnan, Dhoni enjoyed the activity.
The MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai is an iconic venue, all set to host Chennai Super Kings’ home games for the first time since 2019. Moreover, after 4 years, the IPL will return to the home and away format, having been played in the UAE or select venues in the country over the last 3 seasons due to the Covid-19 pandemic.
Prior to the 3rd ODI of a recently-concluded India vs Australia series, the MA Chidambaram Stadium underwent a renovation that included the addition of new stands and improved facilities to enhance the spectator experience. Additionally, after years of legal issues, CSK fans will now be able to utilize the I, J, and K stands, marking the first time in nearly a decade.
During preparations for the new IPL season, MS Dhoni was spotted using yellow and blue spray paint cans to touch up a couple of chairs at Chepauk. Dhoni actively participated in the task and was entertained by the efficacy of the paint on the chairs.
On Monday, April 3, the MS Dhoni-led Chennai Super Kings will play their first home game of the season against the visiting Lucknow Super Giants team. CSK’s IPL 2023 campaign will begin on March 31 at the Narendra Modi Stadium, where they will face defending champions Gujarat Titans in the season opener.
Ahead of the new season, Dhoni arrived in Chennai and has been leading CSK’s training sessions at the MA Chidambaram Stadium. Some of the clips of Dhoni hitting big sixes during practice have gone viral on social media, sparking hope among fans for a fantastic season from the 41-year-old, who is nearing the end of his career.
Although Dhoni has yet to announce his retirement from IPL, the seasoned wicketkeeper-batsman hinted at the possibility when he mentioned that he wouldn’t hang up his boots until he had the chance to play at home and travel across the country for away games in the home-away format of IPL 2023.