When it comes to T20 cricket, there is a constant source of entertainment. If it's not the cricket, then there's the music that gets played between overs. Dancing also takes place.
Usually, the teams don't mind what music or any other entertainment takes place. However, it's recently come to light that the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) has issued a complaint regarding the music that was played when they faced Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB).
In their recent encounter, RCB, the defending champions, triumphed over CSK by 43 runs in front of a vibrant home crowd. This match marked the 36th face-off between the two teams, with CSK leading the head-to-head record at 21 wins to RCB's 14.
The rivalry between RCB and CSK is one of the most intense in IPL history, with both teams boasting large fan bases nationwide. Their matches are known for their competitive spirit; both on and off the field.
The controversy surrounding the 'Dosa-Idli' song has recently come to light, nearly two weeks after the match. According to reports, the DJ at the stadium played a song themed around 'Dosa-Idli,' which CSK interpreted as a mockery of Tamil culture.
CSK's CEO, Kasi Viswanathan, expressed that DJs should support the home team but the atmosphere at Chinnaswamy was different; with comments made against CSK players prompting the franchise to file a complaint with the BCCI.
CSK has officially registered a complaint regarding the DJ's choice of song, which they deemed inappropriate. The song 'idli, dosa, sambar chutney chutney' was highlighted as particularly distasteful.
According to reports, the song—often used in memes referencing South Indian stereotypes—was played while CSK were struggling during their run chase, which the franchise felt added to the perceived mockery.
"The DJs are usually there to support the home team. But at the Chinnaswamy Stadium, it was different. Certain comments were made against our players. Considering that, we have written to the BCCI to look into it," he said.
Viswanathan further stated that there had been no such incidents after the earlier episode involving Jitesh, until the 5 April game. "After that incident, there hadn’t been any repeat. The DJ isn’t supposed to make comments on opposition players. Moreover, we are fortunate to have a lovely fanbase that supports us in large numbers," he added.
The issue traces back to the previous year when RCB shared a video of their wicketkeeper, Jitesh Sharma, singing the same track ahead of a match in Chennai, which led to backlash from CSK supporters; following which the CSK management issued instructions that no remarks should be made against opposition players or fans, as stated.
CSK has also objected to remarks made by the DJ over the public address system following the dismissal of their players during the April 5 match; maintaining that the role of the DJ is to create a positive atmosphere by celebrating key moments rather than undermining or insulting the opposition, as informed.
CSK management also raised concerns over certain remarks allegedly made during the match, claiming the overall atmosphere crossed acceptable boundaries of sporting conduct.
Following that incident, CSK management intervened and issued clear instructions to avoid any remarks or actions that could target opposition players or fans. "Since then, there has been no repeat. The DJ is not supposed to make comments on opposition players, and we are fortunate to have a fanbase that supports us in great numbers," CSK CEO Kasi Viswanathan said.
However, CSK have now raised concerns again, pointing out that similar lines were crossed during the April 5 match in Bengaluru. Apart from the song, they have objected to remarks made by the stadium DJ after the dismissal of CSK players. The team management also raised concerns over the conduct of the stadium DJ, alleging that comments made after the dismissal of CSK players crossed the line. CSK argued that the DJ’s role should be to enhance the match atmosphere, not target or ridicule the opposition.
On the field, RCB delivered a dominant performance, defeating CSK by 43 runs in a high-scoring encounter. Batting first, RCB piled up a massive 250-3; powered by a blistering unbeaten 70 off 25 balls from Tim David and a late onslaught alongside captain, Rajat Patidar. The duo added 99 runs in the death overs, dismantling CSK’s bowling attack. Earlier contributions from Devdutt Padikkal (50) and Phil Salt (46) laid the foundation. RCB hammered 97 runs in the final five overs to take the game away from CSK.
In response, CSK faltered early in the chase, losing key wickets in the powerplay (overs 1-6). Despite fighting knocks from Sarfaraz Khan (50); Prashant Veer (43) and Jamie Overton (37), they were bowled out for 207 in 19.4 overs. Bhuvneshwar Kumar led the bowling effort with three wickets; while RCB’s disciplined attack ensured the target remained out of reach.
The IPL committee has acknowledged the complaint from CSK and is currently reviewing the concerns raised by the franchise. An IPL official confirmed, "We have received a complaint from CSK and are looking into it."
Since IPL 2024, RCB has won four out of five matches against CSK, indicating a shift in the rivalry's dynamics. Fans from both teams frequently engage in heated exchanges, both in stadiums and on social media, intensifying the competition.
Cricket is supposed to be an enjoyable experience. Moments like above shouldn't arise. It seems to me that it was a bit of a mockery. This is especially the case when considering when it got played. Hopefully, some form of action is taken. What was done is not a professional move. It leans towards the side of an amateur.