Defying Age: Oldest Players In IPL History

The Indian Premier League is often known for electrifying atmosphere and blockbuster entertainment apart from the on field drama. 

While the T20 cricket league is a launchpad for several youngsters, it is also a stage for the veterans to reaffirm their legacy. 

In this article, we will look at players who defied age to put on scintillating performances on the field in the IPL. They not only displayed their excellent fitness, but also inspired others with their persistence and consistency.  

Brad Hogg (45 years, 92 days)

Brad Hogg is the oldest player to have featured in IPL history. The Australian left-arm wrist spinner played his final at 45 years and 92 days. At that time, he represented Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in IPL 2016 against the now-defunct Gujarat Lions, bowing out with figures of 1/19 in two overs.

The 2015 season turned out to be best for Hogg who picked up nine wickets in six matches at an economy of 6.85. He featured in a total of 21 matches, taking 23 wickets at an average of 24.78 and an economy of 7.47 across all four seasons he played in the IPL. He had represented Rajasthan Royals in 2012 and 2013. 

Pravin Tambe (44 years, 219 days)

Pravin Tambe holds the record for being the oldest debutant in IPL history. He made his debut in the tournament at the age of 41 years and 212 days for Rajasthan Royals. He played his farewell match at 44 years and 219 days in 2016 for the now-defunct Gujarat Lions. 

The leg spinner featured in a total of 33 matches, claiming 28 wickets. In 2024, he became the oldest player to notch up a hat-trick while playing against Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR). 

MS Dhoni (42 years, 323 days)

Mahendra Singh Dhoni is the oldest active player in the IPL. He last played for Chennai Super Kings on May 22, 2024, against Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) when he was 42 years and 323 days.

Dhoni has been an inextricable part of the CSK squad even since the inception of the tournament in 2008. He has gone on to play a record 264 matches, amassing 5243 runs, including 24 half-centuries.

The former Indian skipper is the oldest captain to win the IPL after leading CSK to their fifth title in 2023. Dhoni will now be playing in IPL 2025 and it remains to be seen what’s in store for him. 

Also Read: Breaking the Century Barrier: Fastest Hundred in IPL History

Muttiah Muralitharan (42 years, 35 days)

Sri Lankan spin maestro Muttiah Muralitharan featured in seven IPL seasons. He appeared for three teams in his IPL career, playing for Chennai Super Kings (2008-2010), Kochi Tuskers Kerala (2011) and RCB (2012-2014).

The bowling legend last played in the tournament in 2014 at 42 years and 35 days. He signed off from the leaguewith 63 wickets in 66 matches with an economy of 6.68 and an average of 26.92.

Imran Tahir (42 years, 29 days)

Imran Tahir is one of the oldest cricketers to have played in IPL. He played his last IPL match on April 25, 2021, against RCB when he was 42 years, 29 days. 

The South-African spinner played a total of 59 IPL matches across eight seasons for Chennai Super Kings. He was part of the CSK winning team in 2018 and 2021. He bowed out of the league with 82 wickets at an average of 20.77 and an economy of 7.76.