A young fan touched MS Dhoni’s feet as he came on to bat at the Velammal International Cricket Stadium on Thursday (Screengrabs/X)

Madurai turned into a sea of MS Dhoni supporters on Thursday as the former Chennai Super Kings and ex-India captain arrived to inaugurate the newly built Velammal Cricket Stadium, an international-standard facility developed by the Velammal Educational Trust in collaboration with the Tamil Nadu Cricket Association (TNCA). Hundreds of fans packed the Madurai airport and later the stadium, chanting “Dhoni, Dhoni” as the legend made his entry wearing his trademark sunglasses and casual attire. Videos of the 44-year-old waving at supporters and greeting crowds quickly went viral on social media.

The newly inaugurated stadium, built at a cost of ₹325 crore and spread across 11.5 acres, currently seats 7,300 spectators and will eventually expand to 20,000. The venue includes a Centre of Excellence, practice nets, advanced drainage facilities, and floodlights — setting it up to host TNPL, Ranji Trophy, and even IPL matches in the future.Watch the heartwarming gesture here But the biggest moment of the day came when Dhoni picked up the bat and walked to the crease for a few hits during the event. The crowd erupted instantly, the decibel levels rising as he began to play a few trademark strokes to the delight of thousands in attendance. As the cameras followed him onto the field, a touching moment stood out, and it melted hearts online. A young fan approached Dhoni just as he was about to bat. In a spontaneous gesture, the boy bent down to touch the former India captain’s feet as a mark of respect.

Dhoni’s reaction won everyone over. He immediately extended his hand for a handshake, patiently waited for the boy to finish, then offered a firm handshake and gently patted him on the helmet – a moment that captured the humility and grace for which he is loved by many. The short exchange between the legend and the young admirer soon flooded social media, symbolising the bond between Dhoni and his fans, which remains as strong as ever.