The MA Chidambaram stadium is a huge part of India’s cricketing history. It has been an iconic place that witnessed one of the first international game between CK Naidu’s India and Douglas Jardine’s England, in 1933-34.
In recent years, it has become synonymous with Chennai Super Kings as it acts as the home ground for the five-times champion of the Indian Premier League.
It is a hot venue for CSK supporters, some even call it Chennai’s fortress where the champions hardly loose any games they play. So, keeping that in mind, let’s take a look at MA Chidambaram Stadim’s IPL records.
Highest innings totals at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in the IPL
Team | Total | Opposition | Year | Scorecard |
CSK | 246 | RR | 2010 | Link |
RR | 223 | CSK | 2010 | Link |
CSK | 222 | DD | 2012 | Link |
CSK | 217 | LSG | 2023 | Link |
RR | 211 | CSK | 2008 | Link |
Since Chepauk is the home ground of Chennai Super Kings, it doesn’t come as a surprise to see them having the highest total in what can be called as their fortress. In fact, 3 out of the top 5 scores
This happened in the 2010- which is also the year in which they won their first title. It was in a game against Rajasthan Royals that CSK went on a run scoring spree with Murali Vijay scoring his highest individual score for CSK.
It was his inning of 127 that helped CSK on to their highest Innings total at MA Chidambaram Stadium. Chennai Super Kings scored 246 runs in the first inning of that game, to register the highest total in IPL at that time.
The second highest total for CSK at the stadium came two years later. This time the hosts took on Delhi Daredevils, and once again it was Murali Vijay who led the charge for the team. With an inning of 113 runs, Vijay scored his second century in IPL to help his team register a total of 222 in 20 overs.
Lowest totals at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in IPL
Team | Total | Opposition | Year | Scorecard |
RCB | 70 | CSK | 2019 | Link |
KXIP | 95 | CSK | 2015 | Link |
DC | 99 | CSK | 2019 | Link |
KKR | 108 | CSK | 2019 | Link |
CSK | 109 | MI | 2019 | Link |
MA Chidambaram was once considered one of the slowest and spin friendly track in the IPL. Hence, it doesn’t come as a surprise that it has seen some of the lowest totals being scored at the ground as well.
The lowest total of them all is of 70 runs by Royal Challengers Bengaluru which came in 2019. In that game it was Imran Tahir and Harbhajan Singh who ran riots with the ball in hand by picking 3 wickets each, they ensured RCB was bundled for what would be the lowest total at Chepauk in IPL.
Another instance that saw a team getting bundled under the score of 100 was in 2015. This time it was Punjab Kings, who could only muster 95, while chasing the mammoth total of 192. Ravindra Jadeja clinched 3 wickets in the game, while Ashwin picked 2 to help CSK register a win.
Delhi Capitals (DC) faced a similar fate in 2019, being bowled out for just 99 runs by CSK. This match highlighted the challenges the CSK bowlers posed, exploiting the home advantage and creating a formidable fortress at their home ground.
Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) also experienced the sting of the CSK bowling attack in 2019 when they managed a mere 108 runs. The match showcased the ability of CSK to control the game on their home turf, with spinners and pacers alike making significant contributions.
Notably, CSK themselves feature on this list, scoring 109 against Mumbai Indians (MI) in 2019. This unusual occurrence underlines the competitive nature of the IPL and the unpredictability of cricket, even for a team as successful as CSK.
Most runs by batters at Chepauk
Batsman | Total runs |
SK Raina | 1506 |
MS Dhoni | 1444 |
MEK Hussey | 848 |
F du Plessis | 553 |
S Badrinath | 438 |
The MA Chidambaram Stadium, the hallowed home ground of the Chennai Super Kings in the Indian Premier League (IPL), has witnessed some stellar batting performances over the years. As we delve into the all-time leading run-scorers at this iconic venue, a clear pattern emerges, showcasing key players’ dominance in the history of Chennai Super Kings.
At the pinnacle stands Suresh Raina, a true Chennai Super Kings stalwart. Raina’s aggregate of 1506 runs at the MA Chidambaram Stadium underscores his consistency and ability to thrive in familiar conditions. A versatile and aggressive left-handed batsman, Raina has been a linchpin in the CSK lineup, contributing significantly to the team’s success on their home turf. These numbers show why Raina is dubbed as one of the top batters in the history of IPL and considered as the Chinna Thala by the CSK Fans.
The third position is held by Michael Hussey, who has a total of 848 runs. ‘Mr. Cricket,’ as he is fondly known, showcased his class and adaptability at the top of the order for CSK. His ability to anchor the innings and provide stability laid the foundation for many successful chases at the MA Chidambaram Stadium. He is the first and only second foreigner to feature in this list, and that is because of the toughness that Chepauk’s pitch possesses. However, he is a master of spin batting and finds himself on the list.
Faf du Plessis and Subramaniam Badrinath complete the list, amassing 553 and 438 runs, respectively. Du Plessis, with his elegant, unique style of strokeplay, has been a key contributor at the top of the order, while Badrinath, a local lad, played crucial supporting roles in numerous CSK victories on their home ground.
The dominance of Chennai Super Kings’ players in the list of all-time leading run-scorers at the MA Chidambaram Stadium highlights the team’s stronghold in their fortress. The synergy between local talents like Raina and Badrinath and international stars like Dhoni, Hussey, and du Plessis has created a formidable combination that resonates with the passionate Chennai crowd. As the IPL continues to unfold, these batting records serve as a testament to the enduring legacy of the Chennai Super Kings at their beloved home ground, where they have celebrated CSK win IPL trophy moments.
Highest Individual score at Chepauk
Batsman | Score | Opposition | Year | Scorecard |
SR Watson | 101 | CSK | 2013 | link |
SK Raina | 100 | KXIP | 2013 | link |
BB McCullum | 100 | SRH | 2015 | link |
SR Watson | 96 | SRH | 2019 | link |
MEK Hussey | 95 | KKR | 2013 | link |
The MA Chidambaram Stadium, a fortress for the Chennai Super Kings in the Indian Premier League (IPL), has not witnessed many scintillating centuries. In fact, in the course of 14 seasons played at the venue, there have been only 3 centurions. This shows how hard it is to bat at the wicket of Chepauk, yet there are three centurions on this ground, and in this part of the article, let’s take a look at them.
The first centurion of the ground appeared in the sixth edition of the tournament in the form of Aussie opener Shane Watson. The Aussie played an inning of 101 runs in just 61 balls against the hosts in 2013. It stands tall as the highest individual score at the MA Chidambaram Stadium. Watson’s century was a masterclass in aggressive yet controlled batting, featuring a barrage of boundaries and powerful strokes that left an indelible mark on the Chennai crowd. However, it was not enough to subdue the hosts, who managed to chase down the total set by Rajasthan Royals, to win the game with 5 wickets and a ball to spare.
The 2013 season seems to have been particularly prolific for batsmen at this venue, as two other players, Suresh Raina and Michael Hussey, etched their names in the record books. Raina’s scintillating knock of 100 runs against Kings XI Punjab made him the second player overall and first and only Chennai batter to score a century at the MA Chidambaram stadium. This knock showcased his ability to dominate bowling attacks, while Hussey’s well-crafted 95 against the Kolkata Knight Riders highlighted his class and composure at the crease.
Brendon McCullum became the only third batter to score a century at Chepauk. His explosive century in 2015 was another memorable inning, as he blazed his way to a remarkable 100 runs against the Sunrisers Hyderabad. McCullum’s innings were a display of sheer power-hitting, setting the tone for an electrifying season and solidifying his status as one of the most impactful players in the IPL.
Shane Watson makes another appearance on the list with his 96-run innings against the Sunrisers Hyderabad in 2019. Although falling just short of another century, Watson’s innings underscored his consistency and ability to perform at a high level even as the years progressed.
In summary, the MA Chidambaram Stadium has been witness to some memorable individual batting displays in the IPL. From Watson’s centuries to McCullum’s explosive innings, these performances entertained cricket fans and contributed significantly to the rich legacy of the Chennai Super Kings on their home turf. As the IPL continues to captivate audiences, one can only anticipate more thrilling innings and record-breaking performances at this iconic venue in the seasons to come.
All-time leading IPL wicket-taker at the MA Chidambaram Stadium
Bowler | Wickets taken |
R Ashwin | 48 |
DJ Bravo | 44 |
JA Morkel | 35 |
RA Jadeja | 28 |
DE Bollinger | 20 |
The MA Chidambaram Stadium, home to the Chennai Super Kings in the Indian Premier League (IPL), has been witness to some exceptional bowling performances over the years. Examining the all-time leading wicket-takers at this iconic venue sheds light on the impact and effectiveness of bowlers in a format often considered favorable to batsmen.
Ravichandran Ashwin stands tall as the undisputed leader in wickets taken at the MA Chidambaram Stadium, with an impressive tally of 48 wickets, and it doesn’t come as a surprise. Known for his guile and variations, Ashwin’s success on his home ground showcases his ability to outfox batsmen with a combination of skill and local knowledge. His performances have made him a fan favourite and played a crucial role in the success of the Chennai Super Kings at their fortress.
Dwayne Bravo, another CSK legend, follows closely behind with 44 wickets, underlining his prowess as a T20 specialist. Bravo’s variations in pace and ability to deliver in pressure situations have made him a vital cog in the Chennai Super Kings’ bowling lineup. His wicket-taking ability at the MA Chidambaram Stadium has been pivotal in restricting opposition teams and creating match-winning opportunities. It is his slower delivery over the years that has been crucial in deceiving batters, helping him save golden runs and eventually take wickets as well.
The South African all-rounder Albie Morkel occupies the third spot on the list with 35 wickets. Although, Morkel was not a part of the CSK army for a long time, he made his mark during his brief stay. Morkel used to bowl with both the new ball, and towards the death of the inning, showing his versatility in either side of the inning.
Ravindra Jadeja, known for his all-round skills, has picked up 28 wickets at the venue, providing crucial breakthroughs and maintaining control in the middle overs. Jadeja’s accurate left-arm spin and ability to extract turns make him a potent force on spinning tracks, making him an asset for the Chennai Super Kings. He is the only active bowler in the close proximity of Ravichandran Ashwin and a likely candidate to make the record his own.
Doug Bollinger rounds off the top five with 20 wickets. The Australian pacer’s ability to swing the ball and generate bounce has troubled batsmen, especially in the early overs, making him a valuable asset for the Chennai Super Kings in the powerplay.
Best bowling figures at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in the IPL
Bowler | Figures | Opposition | Year | Scorecard |
A Russell | 5 for 15 | MI | 2021 | link |
L Balaji | 5 for 24 | KXIP | 2008 | link |
H Patel | 5 for 27 | MI | 2021 | link |
RA Jadeja | 4 for 11 | RR | 2015 | link |
Imran Tahir | 4 for 12 | DC | 2019 | link |
It is a great surprise to notice that only three bowlers have been successful in taking a fifer at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in IP. However, what surprises more is the fact that none of them is a spinner. Otherwise known for supporting spin bowlers, pace bowlers seem to fancy this wicket better than the spinner. And it goes on to show for the record.
To everyone’s surprise, it is not a CSK player but Andre Russell of KKR who makes it to the top of the list. His sensational spell of 5 for 15 against the Mumbai Indians in 2021 is the best bowling figures at Chepauk. Russell’s ability to take five wickets in a T20 match, especially against a formidable Mumbai batting lineup, showcased his prowess as an impact player capable of turning the tide in his team’s favour.
The local boy Lakshmipathy Balaji, who represented CSK, takes the second place. His 5 for 24 against Kings XI Punjab in the inaugural IPL season in 2008 is a testament to the historic significance of the MA Chidambaram Stadium in the league. Balaji’s memorable performance played a pivotal role in shaping the early narrative of the IPL and solidifying his reputation as a wily campaigner with the ball.
RCB’s Harshal Patel is the third pacer on the list. His 5 for 27 against the Mumbai Indians in 2021 stands as another remarkable bowling effort at Chepauk. Patel’s ability to dismantle the opposition’s batting order demonstrated the impact that disciplined bowling can have, even in the shortest format of the game.
Ravindra Jadeja is the first spinner to feature on this list. And he, too, doesn’t have a fifer to his name. His figures of 4 for 11 against the Rajasthan Royals in 2015 showcased his all-round prowess. Jadeja’s ability to contribute significantly with both bat and ball has made him a valuable asset for the Chennai Super Kings, and this performance highlighted his effectiveness as a bowler on home turf.
Imran Tahir’s spell of 4 for 12 against the Delhi Capitals in 2019 rounds up the list of exceptional bowling performances at Chepauk. Tahir’s variations and guile proved too much for the opposition, further emphasizing the importance of quality spin bowling at this venue.