Chennai Super Kings fans were treated to a classic MS Dhoni moment on March 22, as the veteran cricketer once again addressed retirement chatter with humour during a fan event at Chepauk.
Sharing the stage with the IPL 2026 squad, actor Sivakarthikeyan turned the spotlight on Dhoni, expressing both admiration and fandom in an emotional address. Calling CSK more than just a team, he said, “The IPL may be entertainment, but CSK is an emotion", highlighting the unwavering loyalty of its fanbase.
Recalling the electrifying atmosphere at Chepauk, he added that the roar when Dhoni walks out to bat can be heard miles away. “I live in ECR, about 25 kilometres from here, but when MSD enters the stadium, I can hear that sound all the way,” he said, drawing cheers from the crowd.
Sivakarthikeyan also spoke about Dhoni’s influence, noting that beyond cricketing brilliance, it is his leadership that has inspired millions. “I’ve seen you only on television or from the stands. Meeting you in person for the first time makes me nervous. Like so many others, I admire not just your cricket but also your leadership,” he said.
Turning to the team’s future, the actor backed skipper Ruturaj Gaikwad, likening him to Simba while referring to Dhoni as "Mufasa", and assured him of the constant support of both Dhoni and the CSK faithful. He also welcomed Sanju Samson to the squad, calling him a “blockbuster addition” and pointing to the strong cultural connection between Kerala and Tamil Nadu.
But the loudest cheers came when Sivakarthikeyan playfully urged Dhoni to ignore retirement talk altogether. “We expect the same answer every year, sir. You can play till you turn 60,” he said.
Dhoni, now 44, responded with characteristic candour. “It is very difficult,” he admitted before adding, “It is on the way down, not on the way up. But I will try.”
