Chennai Super Kings

In IPL history, the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) rank as one of the most successful and richest franchises. The team was first established as part of the league in 2008 under the ownership of Chennai Super Kings Cricket Limited and has always played its home games at the M. A. Chidambaram Stadium (Chepauk) in Chennai. CSK's continued fan loyalty has developed over time based on strong leadership: first and foremost from long-time captain MS Dhoni and now from current captain Ruturaj Gaikwad and head coach Stephen Fleming. CSK's five IPL championship trophies give it an immensely favorable record as well as an undeniably advantageous position among the league’s top-performing franchises, which allows it to remain a constant presence in the IPL playoffs each year compared to other teams. CSK has grown to be a large sports entertainment and brand-driven business, providing high revenues from its sponsorships, merchandising, media rights licensing, and fan engagement activities over this period beyond cricket operations. The franchise has also a global expansion, as owners of Joburg Super Kings in South Africa's SA20 league and Texas Super Kings in the United States' Major League Cricket tournament.

CSK has grown into one of India largest sporting brands over the years, regularly being at number two in IPL franchise values on the back of a hugely loyal fan base, consistent results and commercial strength. Their branding campaigns have been legendary — the likes of "Whistle Podu" and its fiery mascot like a phoenix rising from the ashes has created an emotional bond with cricket followers across the world.