Veterans of IPL 2020 – Five oldest players in this IPL edition
Pravin Tambe was set to be not only the oldest player of IPL 2020 but also the oldest player in the IPL history when he was bought by Kolkata Knight Riders in the auction for IPL 2020. But Tambe was disqualified from the IPL because of him featuring in the UAE T10 League. Despite Tambe’s absence, the modified 2020 edition could witness at least three players with the age of 40-plus years.
Needless to say Chennai Super Kings lead this department. This IPL season is going to be challenging for all senior players with a lack of consistent training due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Players who have not been active at International cricket before lockdown, are likely to take time for regaining match fitness.
Here are the top five oldest players of the 2020 IPL: (Age as on August 27, 2020)
5. MS Dhoni – 39 years 51 days:
MS Dhoni, who announced retirement from international cricket a few weeks ago, will be playing his first IPL edition as a former Indian player. Dhoni will be the 5th oldest player and also the 2nd oldest Indian of the IPL 2020. The keeper-batsman will be playing his first professional match since the 2019 World Cup semi-final during the tournament.
4. Shane Watson – 39 years 71 days:
Shane Watson is set to be the oldest Australian and the 4th oldest player to be part of the 2020 edition of IPL. Watson produced some big knocks in the PSL earlier this year through which he was warming-up for the IPL. The COVID-19 outbreak turned Watson’s plans upside down and the Australian stayed at home without any match practice.
3. Harbhajan Singh – 40 years 55 days:
Harbhajan Singh turned 40 earlier this year but is still open to making a comeback to the Indian team. Due to some personal concerns, the off-spinner has decided to not take part in this year’s IPL. In case he returns to the Yellow Army, he will be the oldest Indian player and also the 3rd oldest player of this tournament.
2. Chris Gayle – 40 years 341 days:
Chris Gayle escaped from being a COVID-19 victim after attending Usain Bolt’s birthday bash which resulted in the sprinter affecting by the virus. The Universe boss has successfully completed the formalities before taking the flight to Dubai. The West Indies batsman is expected to open the batting for the Kings XI Punjab. He will be the 2nd oldest player of this IPL season and also celebrates his 41st birthday on the 3rd day of the tournament.
1. Imran Tahir – 41 years 153 days:
Imran Tahir, the South African leg-spinner, will be the oldest player of the IPL 2020. He will also enter the top five list of oldest players in the IPL history. Tahir is currently representing the Guyana Amazon Warriors in the CPL and it could be a good warm-up for him before joining the Chennai Super Kings.
