Chennai Super Kings turned back the clock with a nostalgic pre-season celebration at Chepauk, as several franchise legends reunited for the much-anticipated ‘ROAR 2026’ event. The five-time IPL champions hosted a packed gathering that brought together some of the biggest names associated with CSK’s golden era, creating a memorable evening for fans.
The star-studded guest list featured icons like Suresh Raina, Matthew Hayden, Muttiah Muralitharan, Harbhajan Singh, Dwayne Bravo, Ambati Rayudu, Murali Vijay and Parthiv Patel, among others. Their presence reignited the ‘Yellove’ spirit, with fans celebrating the legacy that helped shape CSK into one of the most successful franchises in IPL history.
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However, amid all the excitement, one notable absence caught everyone’s attention—Ravichandran Ashwin. The experienced off-spinner, who began his IPL journey with CSK and played a key role in their early success, was missing from the reunion. Ashwin represented CSK for eight seasons, claiming 97 wickets in 106 matches, making him one of the franchise’s most impactful bowlers during its formative years.
Frame that carries the Yellove aura! 💛#WhistlePodu #Roar26 pic.twitter.com/XZ2e9f5R1D
— Chennai Super Kings (@ChennaiIPL) March 22, 2026
Not a csk fan but man they have included bhajji and not ashwin 😂😂😂 https://t.co/VFjS5vMAzd
— Aaditya Tangsali (@tangsaliaaditya) March 22, 2026
Missing Jaddu, Ashwin anna, faf, baz, D smith & few more.
In today’s OG CSK meet up 🥹 @ChennaiIPL#csk— Ankit (@ITSANKIT07) March 22, 2026
Does anyone have any idea why Ashwin is not present in the #roar26 event. Because he is also an OG csk player.@ashwinravi99 #csk
— cric_tok (@cric_tok) March 22, 2026
Why is Ashwin not playing as OG for CSK ?
— Yoda (@iamVariable) March 22, 2026
ashwin was not invited? https://t.co/y2b6cBynDh
— Nova (@bombayduck_) March 22, 2026
Ain’t even OG
Albie, Ashwin and Dougie missing https://t.co/504D24RUo0— Zard (@CFC_Kow) March 22, 2026
Ain’t even OG
Albie, Ashwin and Dougie missing https://t.co/504D24RUo0— Zard (@CFC_Kow) March 22, 2026
Why no Ashwin in this CSK reunion squad? Theres one decent home talent and should have been included
— babu bisleri (@baabuOP) March 22, 2026
Where is Ashwin, Faf and Watson ??? Dei @ChennaiIPL they are the real OGs
— Madras Man (@newbatsman) March 22, 2026
His absence sparked widespread discussion on social media, with fans questioning why a core member of CSK’s original setup wasn’t part of the celebrations. Many supporters also pointed out the absence of a few other former players, but Ashwin’s omission remained the biggest talking point of the evening.
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As the buzz around ROAR 2026 settles, CSK now shift focus to the upcoming IPL season. They will begin their IPL 2026 campaign against Rajasthan Royals on March 30 in Guwahati, followed by fixtures against Punjab Kings, Royal Challengers Bengaluru and Delhi Capitals in what promises to be a challenging start.
Adding to the anticipation is the return of MS Dhoni, who is set to don the CSK jersey once again. With speculation growing that this could be his final IPL season, fans will be eager to witness the legendary captain in action, hoping for one more memorable run in yellow.
