For years, one question has followed MS Dhoni wherever he goes – how long will he continue playing? On Sunday evening at Chennai Super Kings’ (CSK) grand ‘Roar 2026’ event at the MA Chidambaram Stadium, that familiar curiosity resurfaced once again. This time, it came from Tamil superstar Sivakarthikeyan, and as expected, Dhoni responded in a way only he can – calm, witty, and instantly memorable.
MS Dhoni’s humour steals the show at CSK’s ‘Roar 2026’ event
As the crowd cheered loudly, Sivakarthikeyan playfully suggested, “You can play till 60 also, Sir,” tapping into the emotions of millions of fans who never want to see Dhoni step away from the game. The remark drew huge applause from the packed stadium, reflecting just how deeply fans still believe in their beloved “Thala.”
Dhoni, however, stayed true to his understated style. With a slight smile, he replied, “It’s very difficult.” But the moment didn’t end there. As the actor continued to insist, praising his fitness and longevity, Dhoni delivered the line that quickly went viral: “It’s on the way down, it’s not on the way up… I can try.”
The crowd erupted in laughter and cheers. It was vintage Dhoni – honest yet humorous, acknowledging reality while still leaving a small window of hope. The exchange wrapped up with Sivakarthikeyan smiling and saying, “We have got the answer,” perfectly capturing the mood of the moment.
Here’s the video:
A CSK fan at heart, Our star SK in the house #Roar26 #WhistlePodu pic.twitter.com/Sl8aG0xmGH
— Chennai Super Kings (@ChennaiIPL) March 22, 2026
Dhoni’s legacy in franchise cricket
The light-hearted exchange was more than just a viral moment – it was a reflection of Dhoni’s journey and his unique bond with fans. Over the years, he has built a legacy that goes far beyond statistics, becoming the emotional core of Chennai Super Kings (CSK).
Since the IPL began in 2008, Dhoni has been synonymous with CSK, leading the franchise through highs, setbacks and comebacks. Even during the two seasons when CSK was suspended, he continued to lead from the front with Rising Pune Supergiant (RPS) before returning to Chennai and restoring the team’s dominance.
Under his leadership, CSK has lifted five IPL titles, cementing its place as one of the most successful teams in the league’s history. Although he handed over captaincy to Ruturaj Gaikwad ahead of the 2024 season, Dhoni remains the heartbeat of the side – guiding, mentoring, and inspiring both players and fans.
His numbers for CSK are equally impressive. In 272 matches, he has scored 5,314 runs, making him one of the franchise’s all-time greats. Only Suresh Raina sits ahead of him in the run charts. But beyond the numbers, it’s Dhoni’s composure, leadership, and ability to deliver in crucial moments that define his legacy.
Also READ: ‘Before the legacy, there were these two’ – CSK inducts Suresh Raina and Matthew Hayden into inaugural Hall of Fame
The ‘Roar 2026’ event also saw Dhoni celebrating the next generation of stars, as he honoured T20 World Cup 2026 winners Sanju Samson and Shivam Dube, along with U-19 World Cup-winning captain Ayush Mhatre. It was a symbolic passing of the torch – acknowledging the future while still cherishing the present.
As CSK gear up for IPL 2026 under Gaikwad’s leadership, fans know that every appearance from Dhoni now carries special meaning. His witty reply may have downplayed expectations, but it also carried a subtle truth – his journey is closer to its end than its beginning.
Yet, for the yellow army, even that hint of “I can try” is enough to keep the hope alive. Because with Dhoni, it has never just been about how long he plays – it’s about the moments he creates every time he steps onto the field.
Also WATCH: Suresh Raina turns back the clock with a towering six off Noor Ahmad, leaves MS Dhoni amused at CSK Roar ’26
