T20 is a modern format of the gentleman’s game. Unlike the other two formats, the action happens quickly here.
Thus, T20 cricket requires players to be fit and agile on the field. And we often see young players being in pretty much demand. But teams also lean on some experience to have the right balance.
Over the years, many seasoned professionals have graced the field in the Indian Premier League (IPL). Some have even featured in the league in their 40s!
So here are the top five oldest players who have played in IPL history.
5. Imran Tahir | 42 Years and 29 Days
When one speaks of Imran Tahir, his marathon-running celebration comes to mind. He is one player who has defied age and played a lot of cricket in his 40s.
The leg spinner played his last IPL match back in 2021. Tahir represented Chennai Super Kings (CSK) when he was 42 years and 29 days old. He returned with figures of 2 for 16 against Mumbai Indians on April 25, 2021.
Tahir had a decent career in the league. He represented three teams in 59 matches and picked up 82 wickets.
His best came in CSK colours in 2019. Tahir nabbed 26 scalps to win the Purple Cap that season.
4. Muttiah Muralitharan | 42 Years and 35 Days
After his international retirement, Muttiah Muralitharan continued to feature in the IPL. The master of spin was with Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) towards the end of his IPL career.
In the 2014 season, Murali played his last game. He was 42 years and 35 days old when RCB took on Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) on May 22, 2014.
The Sri Lankan legend enjoyed a good run in the IPL. In 66 games, he picked up 63 wickets at an economy of 6.67.
Apart from his stint with RCB, Murali played for CSK and Kochi Tuskers Kerala. He was a consistent figure in the CSK setup between 2008 and 2010.
3. MS Dhoni | 43 Years and 321 Days
While everyone speculates on MS Dhoni’s retirement, he continues to play for his dear franchise, CSK. Right now, he sits in the third spot after turning up in IPL 2025.
Dhoni is on the verge of turning 44. And he still dons the yellow jersey with pride.
Every time he takes the field, fans cheer their hearts out for him. That’s the reception MSD gets at almost every venue.
Dhoni will play his last match of the 2025 season at the age of 43 years and 321 days. He has made over 278 appearances in the league, with close to 5500 runs to his name. (Read MS Dhoni’s record in the league here.)
Also Read | 5 Things That Set MS Dhoni Apart From Other Captains
2. Pravin Tambe | 44 Years and 219 Days
Pravin Tambe is the second-oldest player to feature in the IPL. In fact, his whole IPL career panned out in the 40s!
Tambe was a late bloomer in the league. He made his IPL debut at such an age when most prefer to retire from the game. He was 41 years and 211 days old on his debut, making him the oldest debutant in the league’s history.
Tambe bowled leg spin and picked up 28 wickets in 33 matches. The last of his matches came for Gujarat Lions on May 14, 2016.
He was 44 years and 219 days old when he played against RCB. Tambe went wicketless in his two overs while giving away 25 runs.
1. Brag Hogg | 45 Years and 92 Days
Brad Hogg sits at the top of this list. And it’s fair to say his record will be pretty much safe for a long time.
He was 45 years and 92 days old when the chinaman bowler featured in his final IPL match. On May 8, 2016, Hogg played for KKR against Gujarat Lions to become the oldest player in the IPL.
Hogg had a brief stint in the IPL. But he stood apart for his unusual bowling style. The former Australian left-arm wristspinner first played for Rajasthan Royals before concluding his career with KKR.
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