Chepauk is known as one of the finest cricketing venues in India, primarily due to the knowledgeable crowd that shows up to appreciate the opponents just like they admire the Indian side. T20 World Cup 2026, though, has no India games scheduled Chepauk but if the Afghanistan-New Zealand game is an indicator, expect strong attendance for all the games at this venue. However, there is an unwanted hassle.
During the Afghanistan-New Zealand game, spectators weren't allowed to bring whistles into the stadium. This restriction was allegedly imposed by the police department as neither the BCCI nor the TNCA had mentioned about such rules in their respective listings. Several people complained on social media about this irrational move from the Tamil Nadu police and this incident has created a speculation.
Chennai Super Kings have a registered trademark in 'Whistle Podu' and whistles have historically symbolised their side in Chepauk since the first IPL season in 2008. Allegedly, the TN police directive on whistle restrictions had a political tone to it - actor Vijay's political party TVK has been assigned whistle as the symbol - and this hasn't gone down well with the general public. However, there are no verified sources to confirm this political angle.
Will CSK now alter their 'Whistle Podu' trademark during IPL 2026 in such a scenario? The speculation is outrageous in itself but the question was asked to CEO Kasi Viswanathan at a function, and he chose not to give a strong reply to the question. Perhaps, the veteran didn't want any unwanted escalation.
"I don't prefer to talk about it," said Mr Viswanathan on News18 Tamil channel at the function. Tamil Nadu politics has been brimming with crossfires ever since Vijay officially launched his party TVK and as such, there is a volatile nature to the political climate. Especially since the whistle symbol was given to TVK.