The Indian Premier League (IPL) is set to make a grand return with its 17th edition scheduled for March-April 2024. As cricket enthusiasts eagerly await the thrilling action, seasoned veterans are gearing up to make their mark in the tournament, eyeing a potential spot in their national teams for the upcoming T20 World Cup in the West Indies and the United States.
Over its 16-year history, the IPL has witnessed the invaluable contributions of experienced stalwarts who have played pivotal roles for their respective teams. From Shane Warne’s leadership for Rajasthan Royals in the inaugural season to MS Dhoni’s masterful captaincy guiding Chennai Super Kings to multiple titles, seasoned players have left an indelible mark on the tournament.
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As the anticipation builds for the 2024 edition, all eyes are on the veterans who continue to add value to their teams with their wealth of experience and skill. Let’s take a closer look at the oldest players from each team competing in IPL 2024:
#1 Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) – Bhuvneshwar Kumar
Leading the fast-bowling unit for Sunrisers Hyderabad, 33-year-old Bhuvneshwar Kumar brings a wealth of experience to the team. As the leading wicket-taker for SRH, Bhuvneshwar has been a vital asset since 2014, with his ability to pick crucial wickets and maintain an economical bowling rate.
#2 Gujarat Titans (GT) – Mohit Sharma
At 35, Mohit Sharma is the senior statesman in the Gujarat Titans squad. His impressive performance in the 2023 IPL edition, where he emerged as the second-highest wicket-taker, showcases his enduring skill and determination to excel in the league.
#3 Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) – Andre Russell
With a formidable record of 2269 runs in 111 matches, 35-year-old Andre Russell remains a key player for Kolkata Knight Riders. Despite a dip in form in the previous season, KKR has shown faith in Russell’s abilities, banking on his potential to deliver match-winning performances.
#4 Mumbai Indians (MI) – Rohit Sharma
While no longer the captain, 36-year-old Rohit Sharma remains a pivotal figure in the Mumbai Indians lineup. With five IPL titles under his belt, Rohit’s experience and batting prowess make him a valuable asset for MI as they aim for another successful campaign.
#5 Delhi Capitals (DC) – David Warner
Having assumed captaincy in Rishabh Pant’s absence, 37-year-old David Warner faces high expectations to lead Delhi Capitals to glory in IPL 2024. Despite a challenging previous season, Warner’s vast experience and proven track record make him a crucial player for DC.
#6 Rajasthan Royals (RR) – Ravichandran Ashwin
Leading the spin department for Rajasthan Royals, 37-year-old Ravichandran Ashwin brings a wealth of experience to the team. With an impressive career spanning over 14 years, Ashwin’s expertise and guile make him a formidable force in the IPL.
#7 Punjab Kings (PBKS) – Shikhar Dhawan
At 38, Shikhar Dhawan assumes the mantle of leadership for Punjab Kings, aiming to inspire the team to success in IPL 2024. With a prolific IPL career and vast international experience, Dhawan’s leadership and batting prowess will be instrumental for PBKS.
#8 Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) – Faf du Plessis
As captain of Royal Challengers Bangalore, 39-year-old Faf du Plessis shoulders the responsibility of leading the team to victory. With a stellar performance in the previous season, du Plessis aims to continue his impressive form and guide RCB to glory.
#9 Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) – Amit Mishra
In the spin department for Lucknow Super Giants, 41-year-old Amit Mishra brings his wealth of experience to the fore. With a successful comeback in the previous season, Mishra’s expertise and skill will be crucial for LSG’s campaign in IPL 2024.
#10 Chennai Super Kings (CSK) – MS Dhoni
At 42, MS Dhoni remains the epitome of leadership for Chennai Super Kings. With an illustrious career as captain and wicketkeeper-batsman, Dhoni’s tactical acumen and experience make him an invaluable asset for CSK as they aim to defend their title.
