IPL 2018: MCA President reveals the primary reason for selection of Pune as a venue

Mahendra Singh Dhoni, the former Indian skipper, has been an iconic personality in Indian cricket because of his contributions to Indian cricket. Moreover, he is a colossus figure for the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in the Indian Premier League (IPL). However, the franchise had been going through some turbulence over the past few days.

They came back to the MA Chidambaram Stadium after a gap of two years after finishing their suspension period. The crowd cheered for Dhoni and his men for all their might as they didn’t leave the venue empty-handed as CSK managed to beat the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in a thriller. Thereafter, the Cauvery Water Dispute has ensured that the home matches of the franchise get shifted.

“He was a major attraction”- MS Dhoni

After a lot of speculation, the Maharashtra Cricket Association (MCA) stadium in Pune has been selected as a venue for the remaining six matches. Meanwhile, MCA President Abhay Apte has sounded confident about hosting CSKs home games without any hassle despite being informed about the same on a short notice.

“It is unfortunate that the home team has to shift out of their venue. The team (CSK) is named after the venue. But we (MCA) have to take it as a challenge and we have immediately geared up our machinery. The stadium is very much in playing condition. The facilities are on. We will have to do very extensive work in getting it done on the right time. So, the last night itself our duties have started,”

The President also mentioned about how Dhoni and his experience of playing at the stadium influenced the decision. “We are hopeful (about good response) because Pune has always supported the outside teams as well. Dhoni was playing in Pune last time and he was a major attraction for the Pune crowd. The Pune crowd has been fans of IPL matches and there’s huge online ticket sale, which is always seen in Pune,” he added.

[interaction id=”5acca9e00b450db51a764cef”]

Here is an insight into MS Dhoni’s journey

Stay updated on ‘today’s cricket news‘ with CricTracker.com