"RCB vs CSK: "Ravindra Jadeja gets frustrated..." - Ambati Rayudu makes shocking allegations against MS Dhoni
Published - 14 May 2024, 02:06 PM | Updated - 23 Aug 2024, 01:11 AM
Former Chennai Super Kings (CSK) player Ambati Rayudu made intriguing remarks about many CSK supporters prioritizing Dhoni over the franchise. Ambati Rayudu revealed that even players like Ravindra Jadeja have felt frustrated with the crowd over the years in the Indian Premier League (IPL).
MS Dhoni has been an integral part of the Chennai-based team since the inaugural edition of the IPL. The veteran wicketkeeper-batter led the team to a record-equalling five titles in the prestigious tournament. Dhoni also guided the Chennai franchise to two Champions League T20 trophies.
The Jharkhand-born cricketer stepped down from the captaincy before the first match in the ongoing T20 tournament. The right-handed batter has been batting lower down the order. However, he has scored 136 runs in 10 innings at an average of 68.00 and an outstanding strike rate of 226.67.
Even Ravindra Jadeja Gets Frustrated - Ambati Rayudu
Speaking to Star Sports before CSK's last group stage match of the Indian Premier League 2024 season, Ambati Rayudu mentioned instances where notable performances from other batters didn't receive much crowd reaction.
"Even when you hit a six and a four the crowd is silent, me and Jadeja felt that in the last few years. I really believe when I say this, that CSK fans are MS Dhoni fans first, and CSK fans later. Even Jadeja gets frustrated, but he cannot do anything," Rayudu said on Star Sports.
MS Dhoni Is The God Of Chennai - Ambati Rayudu
Ambati Rayudu stated that the people of Chennai will eventually construct temples dedicated to MS Dhoni, labeling him the "God of Chennai." Rayudu emphasized Dhoni's unwavering support for his team, country, and CSK throughout his career.
"He is the God of Chennai and I am sure, temples of MS Dhoni would be built in the years to come in Chennai. He is someone who brought India the joy of two World Cups and has brought Chennai joy with a lot of IPL and Champions League titles. He has just been that one guy who shows belief in his players, who has always done it for the team, for the country and for CSK," Rayudu added.
This season of the IPL will be remembered for MS Dhoni's impactful batting cameos, even though his future with the franchise remains uncertain. The former CSK skipper impressed the crowd with his big hits in the final overs. There's speculation that he might retire after the IPL 2024.
CSK is currently in third place in the standings with 14 points from 13 matches. They will face Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) in their final league match. A victory in this match would likely secure their place in the top four. However, a loss by a significant margin could dent their playoff chances.
The Ruturaj Gaikwad-led team will face the Faf du Plessis-led team at the M.Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru on Saturday, May 18.
Also read: T20 World Cup 2024: "Jasprit Bumrah labeled as a threat by South Africa's massive finisher