Chennai Super Kings (CSK) have proudly inducted two of its iconic players, Suresh Raina and Matthew Hayden, into the franchise’s inaugural Hall of Fame. The announcement was made during CSK’s mega fan celebration, Roar’26, held at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai on Sunday, March 22. This historic move marks the first time CSK has formally recognised its legends.
Suresh Raina, affectionately known as ‘Chinna Thala’, has been synonymous with CSK since the franchise’s inception in 2008, representing the team until 2021. During his illustrious tenure, Raina played a pivotal role in CSK’s four IPL triumphs in 2010, 2011, 2018, and 2021.
He also contributed to two Champions League T20 victories in 2010 and 2014, earning the Player of the Tournament accolade in 2014 for scoring 234 runs.
A cornerstone of CSK’s batting line-up, Raina remains the franchise’s highest run-scorer with 5,529 runs from 200 matches, boasting an average of 33.10, including two centuries and 38 half-centuries.
RAINA, HAYDEN SET BENCHMARKS
Australian legend Matthew Hayden represented CSK between 2008 and 2010, leaving an indelible mark during his short stint. A member of the 2010 IPL-winning squad, Hayden also became the first CSK player to win the Orange Cap in 2009, scoring 572 runs in the season. Over his three years with the franchise, he amassed 1,117 runs, including eight half-centuries, with a highest score of 93.
By inducting Raina and Hayden, Chennai Super Kings not only honours their extraordinary contributions but also sets a benchmark for celebrating excellence, inspiring generations of players and fans alike.
For the upcoming season, the Super Kings will kick off their campaign on Monday, March 30, against the Rajasthan Royals (RR) at Barsapara Stadium in Guwahati.
Last year, the five-time champions missed out on the playoffs, marking the first time CSK finished at the bottom of the table. This season, they will be aiming to bounce back and contend for their sixth title.
