CSK bring AR Rahman and legends reunion to Chepauk for ROAR26 fan event on March 22
Six days before the first ball of IPL 2026 is bowled, Chennai Super Kings are throwing a party. ROAR26, the franchise's pre-season fan event, will take over the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai on March 22, combining a live concert from AR Rahman with a reunion of players who helped build CSK into one of the most successful franchise in IPL history.
Raina, Hayden and old favourites return to Chepauk
The event brings back familiar faces. Suresh Raina, who spent the best years of his career at CSK and remains one of the franchise's most beloved players, will be there. So will Matthew Hayden, the Australian who became an unlikely fan favourite during CSK's early title runs. Murali Vijay and S. Badrinath round out the list of returning legends.
For CSK fans, this goes beyond nostalgia. The franchise has always leaned into its identity as a family, and reunions like this keep that connection alive. It also gives the current squad a chance to soak in the atmosphere at Chepauk before the competitive stuff starts on March 28.
Rahman headlines the entertainment
AR Rahman performing at a cricket event in Chennai is about as close to a sure thing as exists in Indian entertainment. The Oscar-winning composer has deep roots in the city, and his involvement gives ROAR26 a scale that goes beyond a typical pre-season launch.
CSK have positioned the event as a celebration of their journey. Whether that means a greatest-hits setlist or something more tailored to the occasion remains to be seen, but Rahman at Chepauk under the lights is a draw all on its own.
Tickets and how to get in
Tickets went on sale on March 15 through the official CSK App, the team's website, and the District platform. Given the combination of Rahman, Raina and the loyal Chennai fanbase, availability may not last long.
CSK open their IPL 2026 campaign at Barsapara Cricket Stadium in Guwahati on March 30 when they host Rajasthan Royals. Sanju Samson, who arrived at CSK after being traded from Rajasthan in the off-season, is expected to join the squad in the coming days.
