Chennai Super Kings, the five-time champions, honored former players Suresh Raina and Matthew Hayden by inducting them into the franchise’s inaugural Hall of Fame during the Roar ’26 fan event at the MA Chidambaram Stadium. Raina, fondly known as ‘Chinna Thala,’ was a key player for CSK from 2008 to 2021, contributing to four IPL title victories and two Champions League T20 triumphs. He holds the record for the highest run-scorer for CSK with 5,529 runs, including two centuries.
Matthew Hayden, the former left-handed opener, who played for CSK from 2008 to 2010, was also recognized for his contributions. Hayden played a crucial role in CSK’s 2010 IPL title win and was the first player from the team to win the Orange Cap in the 2009 season. He amassed a total of 1,117 runs for the franchise, including eight half-centuries.
The induction ceremony into the Hall of Fame marked the beginning of CSK’s pre-season celebrations ahead of the 19th edition of the IPL, commencing on March 28. CSK, under the leadership of Ruturaj Gaikwad, will kick off their campaign against Rajasthan Royals on March 30 at the ACA Stadium in Guwahati. The team’s initial fixtures include matches against Punjab Kings, Royal Challengers Bangalore, and Delhi Capitals, all scheduled as evening games.
