Dhoni, the former skipper of the Indian cricket team and a four-time champion of the IPL, walked into the Eden Gardens possibly for the last time as an active player. As he walked out onto the pitch, a wave of emotion swept through the stands, and the entire stadium erupted in a rapturous ovation- a fitting tribute to a true icon of the game. Speaking at the post-match presentation, Dhoni said, "I will just say thanks for the support, they came in big numbers. Most of these guys will come in a KKR jersey next time. They are trying to give me a farewell, so thanks a lot to the crowd."
The entire country has been showering Dhoni with love and adoration this year, and venues across the country have been painted yellow and echoed chants of Dhoni! Dhoni! every time the Chennai Super Kings have taken the field. On Sunday, we witnessed something similar at the Eden Gardens when both sets of fans cheered the dismissal of Ravindra Jadeja, giving Dhoni an incredible welcome to the crease.
Dhoni's innings lasted just three balls as the Super Kings finished their quota of overs, but each ball he faced was cheered with increased enthusiasm and spirit. The 60,000 odd had gotten their money's worth in five minutes, having shared a moment in time with a man who could have possibly played his last match at the Eden Gardens.