How Chepauk stadium celebrated CSK legacy with legends at Roar 2026
he evening blended cricket with entertainment, highlighted by an electrifying musical performance from A. R. Rahman, making it a perfect curtain-raiser for IPL 2026.
 "Chennai Super Kings IPL 2026 (Photo Credits: CSK 'X' handle)))")
Chennai Super Kings IPL 2026 (Photo Credits: CSK 'X' handle)))
Listen to This Article
The iconic MA Chidambaram Stadium transformed into a nostalgic celebration ground as past and present came together during the ‘Roar 2026’ event. Known for hosting unforgettable clashes featuring Team India and Chennai Super Kings, the venue witnessed a different kind of spectacle on Sunday, one dedicated to honouring the bond between the team and its fans.
With nearly 20,000 spectators in attendance, the stadium was painted yellow. The evening blended cricket with entertainment, highlighted by an electrifying musical performance from A. R. Rahman, making it a perfect curtain-raiser for IPL 2026.
???????????? ???????????????????????????? ???????????????????? ???????????????????? ???????????????????????????????? ????#Roar26 #WhistlePodu pic.twitter.com/HibjudO4Tz
— Chennai Super Kings (@ChennaiIPL) March 23, 2026
Also Read
 "IPL 2026 live news updates")
 "PCB chief Mohsin Naqvi also announced that the PSL will be held behind closed doors (Photo Credits - X)")
 "Suresh Raina")
 "Saurabh Dubey (Credits: X)")
A nostalgic reunion of legends
The event brought back memories as several former CSK stars reunited for a friendly contest against the current squad. Legends like Muttiah Muralitharan, Harbhajan Singh, Murali Vijay, Dwayne Bravo, Michael Hussey, and Joginder Sharma took fans down memory lane.
Seeing these icons share the field again was an emotional moment for supporters, many of whom grew up watching them define CSK’s early success. The sight of Muralitharan bowling while MS Dhoni stood behind the stumps recreated classic scenes from the past.
‘Thala’ and ‘Chinna Thala’ steal the spotlight
No CSK celebration is complete without MS Dhoni, fondly called ‘Thala’ by fans. Equally adored was Suresh Raina, known as ‘Chinna Thala’, whose reception rivalled that of Dhoni himself.
Not the Mongoose, but the power’s still there ???????? #Roar26 #WhistlePodu pic.twitter.com/3AzUwXGIts
— Chennai Super Kings (@ChennaiIPL) March 22, 2026
Raina, along with Matthew Hayden, was inducted into CSK’s first-ever Hall of Fame. Reflecting on his journey, Raina praised the franchise and its loyal supporters, crediting their passion as a key factor behind the team’s success over the years.
Roar for the Captain! ???? #Roar26 #WhistlePodu pic.twitter.com/g0jat4yiKp
— Chennai Super Kings (@ChennaiIPL) March 22, 2026
Practice session draws massive crowd
The enthusiasm of Chennai fans was once again on display as thousands turned up just to watch the current squad train. Echoing scenes from previous seasons, the crowd cheered every move during the practice session.
Players like Sanju Samson, Shivam Dube, and Noor Ahmad received loud applause as they prepared for the upcoming season.
A night that captured CSK’s spirit
More than just an event, ‘Roar 2026’ reflected the deep emotional connection between Chennai and CSK. It was a celebration of legacy, loyalty, and the shared memories that continue to define one of the most beloved franchises in cricket.
More From This Section
 "IPL legends who have never won the purple cap")
 "KKR Bowling attack lacks the fear factor according to R Ashwin")
Don't miss the most important news and views of the day. Get them on our Telegram channel
First Published: Mar 23 2026 | 4:02 PM IST