When India stepped on to the field for the Chennai Test two local heroes went on to play their first Test at home ground after nearly four years. But things have completely changed since the duo last played against Australia at Chennai in February 2017. 

R Ashwin and M Vijay have definitely come a long way from playing for a place in the squad to being one of the vital members of the squad. Ashwin and Vijay are undoubtedly the city’s greatest cricketing stars. In India’s last test here, Ashwin picked up 12 wickets in the match at that time, his second-best figures while Vijay only managed 16 runs in two innings and had almost lost his place. But that would sure be a part of their happy memory now.

Chennai crowd would come up in numbers to see Chennai’s loyal sons playing for their country. The only barrier would be the accessibility of the stadium from various parts of the city because of the cyclone.

Amidst all this, R Ashwin is confident. "Chennai will turn up in numbers and I am pretty sure about it," Ashwin told bcci.tv. "The only factor will be how easily it is accessible from outside because the trees have fallen all over the city, the commuting is a bit of a problem. But, if there is any city that will come back to its feet fast, it is Chennai. When my name is announced to bowl or bat, the way the crowd will erupt is something I really look forward to."

And may it turn out to be that way, for when the crowd is behind your back, the win looks a bit more sweeter and inspires one to fight it out for them.