When MS Dhoni and CSK switched hotels after restriction on biryani

Once, the calmest of cricketers like MS Dhoni found themselves upset, especially when it involved a favourite dish like homecooked biryani. Back in 2014, during the Champions League T20, the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) were in Hyderabad for a match against Kolkata Knight Riders.

The team faced an unexpected issue at their hotel, ITC Grand Kakatiya, due to a strict “no outside food allowed” policy. Ambati Rayudu had sent delicious home-cooked biryani for the CSK players, but they encountered restrictions about bringing it into their rooms.

Dhoni’s reaction

Reports from that time indicate that Dhoni was unhappy with the hotel’s policy. There were mixed reports; some said players were initially stopped from bringing the biryani to their rooms, while others suggested they were allowed to take it but not eat it in common areas. Dhoni’s reaction to this led to the team relocating to Taj Krishna, seeking a solution that fit their needs. “It was a matter of comfort for the team and enjoying our meal,” said one team member.

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CSK’s game and aftermath

Despite the off-field drama, Chennai Super Kings faced Kolkata Knight Riders the next day. Unfortunately, CSK lost the match by three wickets. Nonetheless, the team found comfort in enjoying the home-cooked biryani that sparked the incident. Reports also mentioned that the Board of Control for Cricket in India and CSK had numerous rooms around 180, booked at the hotel, reflecting the scale of the event.