Stands won't fill even half if there's no MS Dhoni in CSK, says Ambati Rayudu as he differentiates between CSK and MI fans

Ambati Rayudu retired from the IPL after winning the title with CSK in 2023.

Veteran Indian middle-order batter Ambati Rayudu has been one of the most successful members of the IPL and was part of several title-winning campaigns for his two franchises. Rayudu is among those players who represented two of the most successful franchises in the league. Starting his career with Mumbai Indians in the IPL 2010, Rayudu concluded in the IPL 2023 for Chennai Super Kings. 

Ambati Rayudu made his switch from MI to CSK in the IPL 2018. In the meanwhile, he also represented the Indian cricket team in 55 ODI matches as well as in 6 T20I games. Rayudu has made a big statement on CSK and MI fanbase. Drawing comparisons between Mumbai Indians and Chennai Super Kings, Rayudu said Mumbai Indians fans support their team first then comes the player while it is exactly the opposite in CSK fans. 

Ambati Rayudu compares CSK and MI fans

Interacting in a podcast with Ranveer Allahbadia, Ambati Rayudu was replying to a question on the difference between MI and CSK fans. Rayudu replied, “As a player, I would say they support Mumbai Indians rather than one player, or a big player of IPL, they always go for Mumbai Indians. Chennai is slightly different, they are Dhoni’s fans first and then the CSK. If Mahi bhai wasn’t there, I don’t think the stadium would be half-full. They are all my best friends.” 

Earlier Ravindra Jadeja has also sometimes indirectly taken a dig at Chennai Super Kings fans. Jadeja was miffed with the crowd cheering for his wicket because MS Dhoni was coming in to bat next. Reports of a rift between the franchise and two senior pros of the franchise only due to the cult being made of just one person. Ambati Rayudu was part of CSK’s successful IPL campaign in 2018, 2021, and 2023. 

MS Dhoni always gets a huge cheer anywhere in the country during the entire season of IPL due to the fans’ love and affection. MS Dhoni will be returning for one more season to play the IPL only for the love he got in the IPL 2023. Chennai Super Kings released Ben Stokes, Kyle Jamieson, Sisanda Magala, and Dwaine Pretorius in big names before the IPL 2024 auction scheduled on 19th December in Dubai. 

For more updates, follow Khel Now Cricket on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Youtube; download the Khel Now Android App or IOS App and join our community on Whatsapp & Telegram.