IPL 2026: 5 Oldest players still playing

The Indian Premier League (IPL) is one of those rare tournaments where rising stars and seasoned veterans share the same stage. Teams aren’t just built on raw talent—they rely on a balanced mix of youthful energy and experienced minds. While young players often grab headlines with their fearless performances, it’s the senior players who bring calmness, strategy, and guidance when it matters most.

These experienced cricketers play a crucial role both on and off the field. They mentor younger teammates, handle pressure situations with composure, and use their years of knowledge to outthink opponents.

As IPL 2026 approaches, plenty of young talents will be in the spotlight—but don’t overlook the veterans. Some of the oldest players in the tournament will still be making headlines, proving that experience never goes out of style.

In this article, let’s take a look at the top five oldest players in IPL 2026.

5. Ishant Sharma – Gujarat Titans (37 years)

Ishant Sharma has been retained by Gujarat Titans for IPL 2026, adding valuable experience and depth to their bowling attack.

At 37, Ishant remains one of the most seasoned pacers in the league. Over the course of 117 IPL matches, he has taken 96 wickets, maintaining an average of 35.18 and an economy rate of 8.38. His presence will give GT a reliable and experienced option, especially in high-pressure situations.

4. Ajinkya Rahane – Kolkata Knight Riders (37 years)

Ajinkya Rahane will continue as captain of Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) for IPL 2026, with the team placing its trust in his experience and leadership. He took over the role last season, but KKR couldn’t make it to the playoffs under his captaincy.

Now 37, Rahane is set to cross a major milestone this season, as he approaches 200 IPL matches. So far, he has played 198 games and scored 5,032 runs, highlighting his consistency and long-standing presence in the league.

3. Sunil Narine – Kolkata Knight Riders (37 years)

Sunil Narine remains one of the most experienced and reliable players for Kolkata Knight Riders heading into IPL 2026. The team showed their trust in him by retaining the veteran spin all-rounder for ₹12 crore.

With an impressive record of 192 wickets in 188 matches, Narine has firmly established himself as one of the most successful spinners in IPL history. Once again, he will play a key role in leading KKR’s spin attack alongside Varun Chakravarthy.

In simple terms, Narine isn’t just an experienced player — he’s one of KKR’s biggest match-winners, especially when it comes to controlling the game with his spin.

2. Rohit Sharma – Mumbai Indians (38 years)

Former Mumbai Indians captain Rohit Sharma has turned 38, yet he’s ready to take the field for another IPL season. Although he no longer leads the team, he continues to be a crucial opener for Mumbai.

With 7,046 runs in 272 matches, the right-handed batter stands as the second-highest run-scorer in IPL history, underlining his enduring impact on the tournament.

1. MS Dhoni – Chennai Super Kings (44 years)

MS Dhoni will be the oldest player in the IPL 2026, taking the field at 44 for the Chennai Super Kings (CSK).

The legendary wicketkeeper-batter will bring his vast experience to the team, mentoring captain Ruturaj Gaikwad and the young talents in the squad. With 278 IPL matches under his belt, Dhoni also holds the record for playing the most games in the tournament’s history.

Cover Credits - IPL.com