In the lead-up to every match the Chennai Super Kings play, whether they have just lost again or bucked the trend, one question dominates: Is Thala fully fit and will he play? Mahendra Singh Dhoni, the wicketkeeper-batsman, is not missed, because it has been a while since the 44-year-old has been the kind of force that makes him an automatic selection.

And yet, the question with no answer is asked because most CSK fans cannot imagine their team without Dhoni. When the IPL came into being, the unlikeliest of adoptions happened.