MS Dhoni retirement: I will try: CSK legend MS Dhoni's epic response after being asked to keep playing IPL till 60

Anticipation for the 19th edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL) has reached a fever pitch as the tournament prepares for its March 28 kickoff. The season will open with a high-stakes clash at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium, featuring the defending champions, Royal Challengers Bengaluru, taking on Sunrisers Hyderabad.

MS Dhoni drops epic reply on being asked to keep playing IPL till 60

While the opening match is a major draw, fans are equally focused on March 30, which marks the return of the legendary MS Dhoni as Chennai Super Kings face off against Rajasthan Royals. Even at 44, Dhoni’s enduring aura and on-field presence continue to set unprecedented benchmarks in the sport.

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The excitement surrounding the 'Thala' reached new heights during a special fan event hosted by CSK at the iconic M. A. Chidambaram Stadium on March 23. The event, which featured the full 2026 squad, took an entertaining turn when popular actor Sivakarthikeyan took the stage. Sharing his admiration for the veteran skipper, the actor made a lighthearted yet hopeful plea, urging Dhoni to continue his professional playing career until the age of 60.

Dhoni’s response perfectly captured the wit and humility that have defined his career. With a characteristic smile, he replied, "It will be difficult, but I can try." This brief but iconic comeback immediately sent the Chennai crowd into a frenzy, triggering a massive roar of applause that echoed throughout the "Anbuden" stadium.

Watch the video here:

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While Dhoni may be entering the twilight of his storied playing career, the passion of his fanbase remains undiminished, with supporters across the globe clearly not ready to say goodbye to the legendary captain anytime soon. Their devotion will be on full display when the Chennai Super Kings kick off their IPL 2026 campaign. The team is scheduled to face the Rajasthan Royals on March 30, with the high-octane encounter set to take place at the Barsapara Cricket Stadium in Guwahati.

Suresh Raina, Matthew Hayden inducted in CSK's Hall of Fame

In addition to the on-field excitement, the franchise took a moment to honor its history during the "Roar’26" fan event on Sunday. CSK officially launched its first-ever Hall of Fame, inducting two of the most influential figures in the club's history: Suresh Raina and Matthew Hayden.