MS Dhoni and Devon Conway. (Photo Source: IPL/BCCI)
Although it was an away game for four-time IPL winners Chennai Super Kings when they clashed against Kolkata Knight Riders, the Eden Gardens was flooded with a sea of yellow at the venue. CSK’s star Kiwi opener Devon Conway revealed that every game feels like a home game due to MS Dhoni’s incredible fan following in the cricket-crazed nation.
It was a familiar sight in this year’s edition of the tournament when CSK visited the Eden Gardens to take on Nitish Rana’s men. The iconic venue was filled with supporters of the Chennai-based franchise, largely due to the presence of legendary CSK skipper MS Dhoni, who has a tremendous fan following in the country, irrespective of the venue.
With rumours of IPL 2023 being MS Dhoni’s last appearance in the competition, fans have been itching to get to the ground to support the iconic cricketer. His CSK teammate Devon Conway revealed that every match feels like a home fixture with the former Indian skipper in the playing eleven.
“The culture we have here in Chennai is very special and for us, it’s about continuing this momentum. Certainly, having MS makes us feel like every game is like a home fixture,” Conway said after his side’s thumping victory against KKR.
I think my partnership with Rutu calms the nerves and a lot of credit needs to go to Rutu: Conway
Conway, who registered his fourth successive half-century this season after a brisk fifty against KKR, credited his young Indian opening partner Ruturaj Gaikwad for his exploits at the top of the order. He also revealed his strategy of using his feet against the spinners on subcontinent surfaces.
“I think my partnership with Rutu calms the nerves. A lot of credit needs to go to Rutu. I’m just trying to be as clear as possible. I’ve always had an issue with the ball on the body, but have been getting over it. By using my feet [against spinners], I get into good positions and get momentum,” Conway added.