Watch: Video emerges of Arijit Singh touching MS Dhoni's feet in internet-breaking moment during IPL 2023 opener
Arijit Singh displayed a heartwarming gesture for CSK captain MS Dhoni as the former touched his feet during the IPL 2023 opening ceremony.
The 2023 edition of the Indian Premier League began on Friday night with Gujarat Titans kicking off their title challenge in style, beating MS Dhoni's Chennai Super Kings by five wickets. The side took off from where it left last season, where the Titans lifted the title in their maiden appearance in the league. Chasing 179, Shubman Gill produced a terrific knock as he scored 63, while Rashid Khan and Rahul Tewatia played quality cameos to steer the Titans past the line.
The tournament kicked off with a glittering opening ceremony featuring India's leading playback singer Arijit Singh, and actors Tamannah Bhatia and Rashmika Mandanna. Following their performances, the captains of both teams – Dhoni and Hardik Pandya – arrived at the stage for a picture with the Indian Premier League trophy; Dhoni came first and Arijit had a heartwarming gesture for the former India captain, as the singer touched his feet.
Dhoni, too, was surprised at the gesture as he hugged Arijit. The video of the moment has since gone viral on social media. Watch:
Earlier, Gill eclipsed Ruturaj Gaikwad's high-quality knock with a dazzling half-century as Gujarat Titans began their title defence with a convincing win at the iconic Narendra Modi Stadium.
Gaikwad was all class in his 92 off 50 balls before Titans pulled things back in the middle overs to limit Chennai Super Kings to 178 for seven after opting to bowl first in front of a near capacity crowd at the world's largest cricket stadium here.
In the form of his life over the past three months, Gill played some jaw-dropping strokes in his 63 off 36 balls to set up a fine win for the home team. Titans got home in 19.2 overs.
"We all knew there will be dew. We could have done a bit more with the batsman ship. Ruturaj (Gaikwad) was brilliant, he times the ball well and he's a pleasure to watch. The way he picks his options, is pleasing to watch. I think it's important for youngsters to step in," Dhoni said at the post-match presentation.
