Test cricket is the longest format of cricket. Only the fittest cricketers can play test cricket. In the early 20th century there were only a few nations who played test cricket and among those nations, there were some players who represented their sides even when they were in their 40s. In the early 1900s, test cricket had rest days in between the matches. Do you know who was the oldest player to play in a test match?
Wilfred Rhodes
Wilfred Rhodes from England is the oldest player to play in a test match. In April 1930, Rhodes at the age of 52 years and 165 days played his final test match against West Indies at Kingston. It was the 4th test during England’s tour of the West Indies.
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West Indies vs England, 4th Test, 1930
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After winning the toss England elected to bat first. After batting 258.2 overs, England were all-out for 849 runs. Rhodes, batting at number 10 scored eight runs and remained not out. In the second innings, West Indies were bowled out for 286 runs, and left-arm off-spinner, Rhodes picked up the final wicket of the innings. Rhodes once again remained not out in the third innings after scoring 11 runs as England declared for 272/9. The match was drawn as West Indies scored 408 runs in the fourth innings for the loss of five wickets. Rhodes once again picked up just one wicket.
Oldest players in Tests
Here are the top 10 oldest players to play in a test match:
| Player | Opposition | Age | Match date |
| Wilfred Rhodes (England) | West Indies | 52 years 165 days | 3rd April 1930 |
| Herbert Ironmonger (Australia) | England | 50 years 327 days | 23rd February 1933 |
| WG Grace (England) | Australia | 50 years 320 days | 1st June 1899 |
| George Gunn (England) | West Indies | 50 years 303 days | 3rd April 1930 |
| James Southerton (England) | Australia | 49 years 139 days | 31st Match 1877 |
| Miran Bakhsh (Pakistan) | India | 47 years 301 days | 12th February 1955 |
| Jack Hobbs (England) | Australia | 47 years 249 days | 16th August 1930 |
| Frank Woolley (England) | Australia | 47 years 87 days | 18th August 1934 |
| Don Blackie (Australia) | England | 46 years 309 days | 1st February 1929 |
| Herbert Strudwick (England) | Australia | 46 years 202 days | 14th August 1926 |
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