Chennaiyin FC has announced India cricket team captain and football fanatic MS Dhoni as its co-owner.

Dhoni has been an inspiration for millions of Indians for his successful exploits in the field of cricket and he is also a heartthrob of the city of Chennai, having led IPL franchise Chennai Super Kings to several honours with the latest being the 2014 Champions League T20 tournament.

Now Dhoni, who will all know has a passion for football and bikes other than cricket, will be part of a revolution in Indian football and help launch a new era for the beautiful game in Chennai by being the co-owner of Chennaiyin FC in the Hero Indian Super League.

The announcement was made by Chennaiyin FC co-owner Mrs Vita Dani, who said, “It is an absolute honour to have the legendary MS Dhoni as one of the co-owners of our franchise, Chennaiyin FC. Mahi has a strong association with the people of Chennai and so with him coming on board, we take another giant step towards achieving the goal of creating a world class football club in Chennai. Vanakkam Mahi!”

Expressing his excitement on becoming a co-owner of Chennayin FC, Dhoni stated, “I used to be a goalkeeper in school and always enjoy playing and watching the game. I wanted to be associated with football so when the opportunity came to be a part of Chennaiyin FC I was ecstatic as this gives me a chance to connect with the city of Chennai again. I have played franchise cricket for this city so I know how supportive they are.”

Dhoni added, “I am sure all the players of Chennaiyin FC will see how much love Chennai gives to their players. The Hero Indian Super League is a fantastic platform for football to grow with so many big names, IMG-Reliance and Star India associated with it. I look forward to an exciting season ahead but at the same time it’s important that we develop the grassroots level and produce more football stars in India.”

Chennaiyin FC starts their Hero Indian Super League campaign with an away game against FC Goa on October 15 while their first home fixture is against Kerala Blasters on October 21.