Dhoni was overwhelmed with the love shown by local people in Chennai.
Chennai Super Kings (CSK) captain MS Dhoni is adored by the local people of Chennai. He tries to give back the love people give him. Talking in the Star Sports' show, Return of the Lion, he highlighted the journey from 'Dhoni' to 'Thala'.
"This journey started in 2008, CSK has helped me improve in everything whether it was being a human being or being a cricketer, handling situations that are tough both in and out of the field and how to be humble once you are doing well," said Dhoni.
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Chennai calls him 'Thala' and he loves it too. Commenting on it, Dhoni added, " 'Thala' basically means brother, so for me, it's more the abstract of the fans, the love and affection towards me is the reflection of that. Whenever I am in Chennai or down South they never call me by my name they address me as 'Thala' and the moment someone calls me Thala, they are showing their love and respect but at the same time he is a CSK fan."
Dhoni has led Super Kings to play off of all the tournaments they have featured in. The 38-year-old will have a big huddle to jump this season as he, and his mates aren't in the same touch as before.
Former India batting coach Sanjay Manjrekar knows it won't be easy for Dhoni to deliver, coming back after 8 months of break.
"It is tough to find the rhythm initially but it can also be a huge advantage because when you are playing international cricket, the amount of pressure that you are under, you sort of getting into a tunnel vision with regard to various responsibility and the needs of the team," said Bangar.
"So from a player perspective if he (Dhoni) has taken a break for 6-7 months, he has a good chance to rediscover, refresh and reinvent," he added.
(Quotes inputs from Star Sports' show)