 "D Gukesh with the CSK jersey presented to him by R Ashwin. Image: CSK")
One of the most popular cricket teams and five-time Indian Premier League (IPL) champions, Chennai Super Kings on Friday honoured one of the city’s biggest stars – chess world champion D Gukesh.
The IPL franchise posted a heart-warming video on their X account in which CSK player R Ashwin, who also hails from Chennai, could be seen presenting a team jersey with No.18 on its back to Gukesh.
No.18 has special significance in Gukesh’s life as he became the youngest world champion in chess at the age of 18 last December . Gukesh defeated China’s Ding Liren in the World Chess Championship 2024.
While Chennai is known for its love for cricket and CSK enjoy a crazy following, the city has also produced some of the greatest chess players. Five-time world champion Viswanathan Anand hails from Chennai besides, Gukesh, R Praggnanandhaa and R Vaishali.
Gukesh is a fan of former CSK captain Dhoni
CSK also holds a special place in Gukesh’s heart as he is a big MS Dhoni fan. Former India captain Dhoni had led CSK to five IPL titles.
“When I was younger, it was Indian cricketer MS Dhoni, now it’s Novak Djokovic,” Gukesh had told PTI, talking about his inspirations. “I think both are great athletes and I admire a lot of things about both of them.
“I think the way Dhoni and tennis great Novak Djokovic handle themselves under immense pressure, they are big-game players and always come out on top and bring out their best whenever needed. That is why I am attracted to them.”