Dhaka, April 15 -- Commentator Graeme Swann couldn't help but remind TV audiences once again that the match was being played in Lucknow. There was a reason for the reminder late in the game. Although Lucknow Super Giants were playing on their home turf at the Ekana Cricket Stadium, the sea of yellow in the stands made it feel like a Chennai Super Kings home game. And when MS Dhoni stepped onto the field, the thunderous roar from the crowd made it sound unmistakably like Chennai.

Scenes like these are nothing new in the IPL -- Dhoni's fanfare follows him wherever he goes. Yet, this time, the moment felt particularly special. The CSK skipper, now 43, had been facing intense criticism -- from his performance and batting position to whether ...