Ambati Rayudu said there's a difference in how the fans support MI and CSK.
Mumbai Indians (MI) and Chennai Super Kings (CSK) have a cool rivalry in the Indian Premier League (IPL). MI and CSK, both franchises, have won the most titles in the IPL’s history—five each.
The MI and CSK have been captained by the two Indian superstars, Rohit Sharma and MS Dhoni, respectively, in the IPL.
Former Indian batter Ambati Rayudu, who got to play for both MI and CSK in his IPL career, said that there's a difference in how the fans support two of the most loved franchises of the tournament. He said that there is a different vibe between the two fanbases.
According to Rayudu, MI fans tend to focus on supporting the entire team rather than individual players, but CSK fans primarily rally behind Dhoni before the team as a whole.
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Ambati Rayudu said on The Ranveer Show 360: “As a player I would say, they support Mumbai Indians more than one player or X player or Y player. They are always for Mumbai Indians.”
He added, “Chennai Super Kings is slightly different. Chennai are: Dhoni’s fans first and then CSK. If Mahi bhai is not there, don’t think the stadium would be half full. They are all Mahi bhai fans.”
Notably, Dhoni lovingly known as "Thala" by his countless CSK fans and remains a significant attraction among the cricket fans even after four years since his last international match for India.