“Chepauk no longer a fort” for MS Dhoni & Co: Former CSK star’s bold claim as IPL 2024 schedule is announced cricket news

With defending champions Chennai Super Kings set to take on Royal Challengers Bangalore in the opening match of the IPL season this year, former batsman Abhinav Mukund feels Chepauk is ‘no longer a fortress’ for the five-time winners. Mukund, who played for Chennai Super Kings between 2008-2012, on Thursday said RCB may fancy their chances but he backed CSK to win. Mukund said, “There has been a big rivalry between CSK vs RCB in the last few years. RCB came very close to victory in Chepauk but could not cross the winning line. Some of these moments will be engraved in the hearts of the fans. Will go.”

“The good thing for RCB is that the pitches in Chennai have changed. It is no longer a fortress for CSK. They lost to Punjab (Kings) and KKR (Kolkata Knight Riders) at home (last year), even though They may have won the trophy. But considering the spin-friendly conditions and the spinners they have, CSK look strong on paper,” the former India batsman was quoted as saying by Geo Cinema.

The schedule of the first two weeks and 21 matches of the T20 Mahakumbh was announced on Thursday, with MS Dhoni-led CSK playing two matches at the MA Chidambaram Stadium.

Chennai’s next home match will be a repeat of last year’s final with a clash against Gujarat Titans on March 26.

Meanwhile, former India batsman Sanjay Manjrekar is hopeful that Dhoni will be in his usual elements as a leader.

Star Sports quoted Manjrekar as saying, “MS Dhoni will do his job. He will show us the captaincy that has such a big impact like last season.”

“With MS Dhoni’s role last season, it is clear to see how important captaincy is in the IPL. As a batsman, he contributed a little, but for youngsters and inexperienced players, he makes them champions – that’s his Is special.” ” He added.