The Indian Premier League (IPL) is a breeding ground for new talent, with young cricketers often stealing the spotlight. However, the 2025 season is proving that experience still holds an edge in the game. From fiery fast-bowling legends like Ishant Sharma to the ageless MS Dhoni, several veteran players are showing that age is just a number in this high-octane league. As IPL 2025 kicks off, here’s a closer look at the oldest players still making their mark and how their experience continues to shine on the grand stage.
These seasoned cricketers, despite being in the later stages of their careers, continue to make valuable contributions to their teams. Let’s dive into the list of the oldest players expected to make waves in IPL 2025, showcasing their skill, leadership, and undying passion for the game.
Top Oldest Players in IPL 2025
The Indian Premier League (IPL) has always been a competition that thrives on youthful energy, but some of the oldest players in the league still manage to steal the spotlight with their experience and skill. In IPL 2025, several seasoned cricketers continue to play pivotal roles in their respective teams, proving that age is just a number. Let’s take a look at the oldest players still going strong in the IPL and what they bring to the game this season.
| Player Name | Age (Years:Days) | Team | Role |
|---|---|---|---|
| MS Dhoni | 43:288 | Chennai Super Kings | Wicketkeeper, Captain |
| Faf du Plessis | 40:282 | Delhi Capitals | Batsman, Captain |
| Ravichandran Ashwin | 38:216 | Chennai Super Kings | Bowler |
| Rohit Sharma | 37:356 | Mumbai Indians | Batsman, Former Captain |
| Moeen Ali | 37:307 | Kolkata Knight Riders | All-rounder |
| Karn Sharma | 37:180 | Mumbai Indians | Bowler |
| Andre Russell | 36:357 | Kolkata Knight Riders | All-rounder |
| Ajinkya Rahane | 36:319 | Kolkata Knight Riders | Batsman, Captain |
| Ishant Sharma | 36:231 | Gujarat Titans | Bowler |
1. MS Dhoni – The Timeless Captain (Age: 43 Years)
MS Dhoni, the face of Chennai Super Kings (CSK), remains one of the most influential figures in IPL. At 43, Dhoni is not just a player; he’s the heart of CSK. His leadership, ability to handle pressure, and unmatched wicket-keeping skills still make him an invaluable asset. Whether it’s his calmness behind the stumps or his game-changing decisions with the bat, Dhoni continues to prove that age has nothing on his cricketing acumen. He’s still one of the most formidable players in the league.
2. Ishant Sharma – The Veteran Fast Bowler (Age: 36 Years)
Ishant Sharma, a seasoned fast bowler with immense experience, continues to dominate IPL 2025 with his raw pace and pinpoint accuracy. At 36, Ishant is still one of the key bowlers for Gujarat Titans. His towering height and ability to generate bounce make him a unique asset in modern T20 cricket. Despite the younger generation of pacers coming up, Ishant’s consistency and skill make him one of the most reliable bowlers in the IPL, offering invaluable insights and mentoring opportunities for the younger squad members.
3. Ajinkya Rahane – The Calm and Composed Leader (Age: 36 Years)
Ajinkya Rahane, known for his composed nature and consistent batting at the top order, is another vital veteran in IPL 2025. As the skipper of Kolkata Knight Riders, Rahane’s experience in pressure situations is unparalleled. At 36, he brings leadership and stability to the middle order, often providing the team with vital runs during crucial moments. Rahane’s contributions in both domestic and international cricket have earned him the respect of his peers, and he remains one of the most dependable figures in IPL 2025.
4. Andre Russell – The Explosive All-Rounder (Age: 36 Years)
Andre Russell, the big-hitting all-rounder from the West Indies, is still one of the most dynamic and exciting players in IPL. At 36, his power-hitting and ability to turn a game around within a few overs make him a key player for Kolkata Knight Riders. Russell’s raw athleticism and finishing abilities have made him a fan favorite, and even in 2025, he remains one of the top all-rounders in the IPL, delivering crucial performances with both bat and ball.
5. Karn Sharma – The Veteran Leg Spinner (Age: 37 Years)
Karn Sharma, playing for Mumbai Indians, is another IPL veteran who continues to make his mark in the 2025 season. At 37, Sharma is a reliable leg spinner whose variations and intelligence in the middle overs are crucial for his team. His ability to bowl in pressure situations and maintain a tight line makes him an effective weapon, especially in the ever-important middle overs.
6. Moeen Ali – The Versatile All-Rounder (Age: 37 Years)
Moeen Ali, representing Kolkata Knight Riders in IPL 2025, continues to provide balance with both bat and ball. At 37, Moeen’s aggressive batting and sharp spin bowling make him a crucial all-rounder. His versatility is unmatched, whether it’s spinning the ball or anchoring the innings in the middle order. Moeen’s leadership and experience also add value to his team, making him one of the most sought-after players in the league.
7. Rohit Sharma – The Mumbai Indians Captain (Age: 37 Years)
Rohit Sharma, the former Mumbai Indians captain, is not just an experienced batsman but a master tactician as well. At 37, Rohit’s expertise in crafting innings and guiding his team in crunch moments continues to shine in IPL 2025. Known for his composure under pressure and exceptional leadership skills, Rohit remains a vital player for the Mumbai Indians, contributing significantly with the bat and as a strategic captain.
8. Ravichandran Ashwin – The Tactical Spinner (Age: 38 Years)
Ravichandran Ashwin, the legendary off-spinner from Chennai Super Kings, is 38 years old but shows no signs of slowing down. Known for his sharp cricketing mind, Ashwin continues to be a key player in the IPL, using his tactical brilliance to break partnerships and take wickets in crucial moments. His experience and skill make him an irreplaceable asset for his team.
9. Faf du Plessis – The Fearless Leader (Age: 40 Years)
Faf du Plessis, the South African legend, is 40 years old and still going strong. Playing for Delhi Capitals, Faf brings leadership, experience, and consistency to the team. His ability to anchor innings while maintaining a high strike rate makes him a top performer in IPL 2025. As one of the oldest players in the tournament, Faf’s commitment and passion for the game are as fierce as ever.
10. Shane Watson – The All-Rounder Legend (Age: 44 Years)
Shane Watson, the Australian all-rounder, continues to be a dominant force in IPL even at 44. While he may be towards the tail end of his career, Watson’s ability to contribute with both bat and ball still makes him a valuable asset for his team. His aggressive batting style and tactical bowling make him a unique player, capable of turning games on their head in an instant.
Why Experience Still Matters in IPL 2025
While IPL is traditionally known for young talent and fast-paced action, the presence of these older players adds immense value. They bring a wealth of experience, leadership qualities, and mental toughness, which can prove to be game-changers. Their ability to adapt, mentor young players, and deliver in pressure situations is what makes them so indispensable. In IPL 2025, age is merely a number, and these players continue to defy the odds and inspire future generations.
Here’s a Quick Look at the Oldest Players in IPL 2025:
| Player | Team | Age (2025) |
|---|---|---|
| MS Dhoni | Chennai Super Kings | 43 Years |
| Ishant Sharma | Gujarat Titans | 36 Years |
| Ajinkya Rahane | Kolkata Knight Riders | 36 Years |
| Andre Russell | Kolkata Knight Riders | 36 Years |
| Karn Sharma | Mumbai Indians | 37 Years |
| Moeen Ali | Kolkata Knight Riders | 37 Years |
| Rohit Sharma | Mumbai Indians | 37 Years |
| Ravichandran Ashwin | Chennai Super Kings | 38 Years |
| Faf du Plessis | Delhi Capitals | 40 Years |
| Shane Watson | Rajasthan Royals | 44 Years |
Conclusion: Legends Who Defy Time
The IPL 2025 season will feature some of the oldest and most experienced cricketers in the tournament. From the strategic brilliance of MS Dhoni to the all-round prowess of Andre Russell, these veterans continue to deliver exceptional performances, proving that age is no barrier to success. Their unmatched experience, wisdom, and skills not only elevate their teams but also inspire young cricketers around the world to believe in the power of hard work and dedication.
As we head into IPL 2025, keep an eye on these seasoned stars who, despite being older, continue to defy expectations and shine brightly in the league. They are true testaments to the fact that in cricket, as in life, experience and passion never fade.
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