Shane Warne’s tastes, Surav Ganguly and Rahul Dravid are also on the list.
Age is just a number, but in cricket, it often becomes a subject of discussion when seasoned players challenge expectations and continue to occur at the highest level. The Indian Premier League (IPL) saw several legendary cricket players playing well in the late 1930s and early 1940s, proving that experience and skills can sometimes prevail over the exuberance of young people.
One of the most remarkable examples is Ms DhoniWho played for Chennai Super Kings (CSK) against Gujarat Titans (GT) May 28, 2023at the age of 41 years and 325 days. Its leadership and finishing capacities have remained unprecedented, which makes it a crucial figure in CSK’s success.
In the same way, Shane WarneThe legendary Australian Spinner, led the Royals of Rajasthan (RR) against the Indians of Mumbai (Mi) May 20, 2011has 41 years and 249 days. Warne’s tactical radiance and mentorship played an important role in the first RR IPL campaigns.
Adam GilchristAnother great Australian, played for kings XI Punjab (now Punjab Kings) against Mi on May 18, 2013has 41 years and 185 days. His aggressive striker and his lively goalkeeper were still obvious despite his advanced age.
Rahul DravidKnown for its classic striker and clever leadership, represented RR against Mi on May 24, 2013has 40 years and 133 days. His ability to anchor the sleeves and guide young players was invaluable.
Surav GangulyThe former Indian captain, played for Pune Warriors India (PWI) against Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) May 19, 2012has 39 years and 316 days. His presence added an experience and a strategic depth to the team.
More recently, Faf du Plessis, the South African striker, played for the royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) against RR on May 22, 2024, at 39 and 314 days. Its physical shape and its prowess in the stick continue to make it a vital asset.
The oldest captains of IPL
41 years 325 days – MS DHONI – CSK VS GT, May 28, 2023
41 years old 249 days – Shane Warne – RR vs Mi, May 20, 2011
41 years old 185 days – Adam Gilchrist – KXIP (PBKS) vs Mi, May 18, 2013
40 years 133 days – Rahul Dravid – RR vs Mi, May 24, 2013
39 years 316 days – Surav Ganguly – Pwi vs KKR, May 19, 2012
39 years 314 days – FAF DU PLESSIS – RCB vs RR, May 22, 2024
Publisher’s choice
Does Cricket KL Rahul deserve a place in India Squad for the T20 2026 World Cup, as Kevin Pietersn claims?
High level stories