Fans excited to see CSK playing at home

The stadium and its precincts wore a festive look as ardent fans of CSK lined up the roads attired in the team's jersey from the wee hours of Tuesday.

Starved of IPL action for two years, CSK faithful understandably turned up in droves to watch their heroes in action.

Chants of Dhoni, Dhoni rent the air as children wore his masks and smeared their faces with the CSK logo.

Prakash, a devout follower, said he makes it a point to watch all CSK home matches at the stadium. "Our long wait has ended and I have come along with my family to cheer for my favourite team. I'm only interested in the game and not worried about all the other issues," said the 38-year-old.

The fact that CSK won its opening match against defending champion Mumbai Indians under thrilling circumstances has heightened the levels of expectation and moods of optimism among the spectators.

Though there were traffic snarls, fans succeeded in making their way to the stadium well in advance of the scheduled time.

For some, just the prospect of seeing Dhoni at close quarters was a reason to brave all odds and stand by him and his side.

"Dhoni is the lucky mascot of this team and all the CSK fans feel blessed to have lead our side. I'm sure the team will once again bring laurels to the city," said a young enthusiast.

Having waited with bated breath, the city gears up for high-octane cricketing action for the next one month.