IPL 2022 will start on March 26th with the game between Chennai Super Kings and Kolkata Knight Riders. Over the years, IPL has managed to change the notion that the T20 format is best suited only for youngsters. It has been proven multiple times that experience does hold value in the format. CSK’s title-winning campaign in 2018 is the best example of the same. In line with this, a few cricketers, who are on the other side of their age with respect to a playing career, are set to participate in IPL 2022. In this article, we take a look at the five oldest players who will play in IPL 2022.
5) Mohammad Nabi (Kolkata Knight Riders) – 37 Years
Afghanistan all-rounder Mohammad Nabi was one of the final picks for KKR at the IPL 2022 Mega-Auctions. The player had been part of Sunrisers Hyderabad ever since he made his debut in IPL.
Nabi could have a tough time getting a chance in the playing XI. There are already two off-spinners in the form of Sunil Narine and Varun CV in the team. Moreover, with Andre Russell and Venkatesh Iyer operating as the all-rounders, Nabi might not get an opportunity unless there is an injury.
4) Wriddhiman Saha (Gujarat Titans) – 37 Years
West Bengal wicket-keeper Wriddhiman Saha is one of the oldest players who will play in IPL 2022. It was right at the end that Gujarat Titans, who were on the lookout for a wicket-keeper, that Saha was signed at the auctions.
In recent years, Saha operated at Sunrisers Hyderabad. His game time was not consistent and so was his performances. The player enjoyed his best phase in IPL when he was with Punjab around 2014. He famously once scored a hundred in the finals but still ended up on the losing side. Gujarat does not have too many domestic options in this department and hence, Saha, who is now out of Team India, might fancy a few games.
3) Faf du Plessis (Royal Challengers Bangalore) – 37 Years
Newly-appointed captain of RCB, Faf du Plessis also belongs to this list. While most of the batters of his age have been having issues, Faf is enjoying his form.
He was the second-highest run-getter in IPL 2021 and helped CSK win the trophy. RCB will hope that Faf is in a similar form. Like always, Faf is in good fitness and is expected to be a contributor in the fielding department, as well.
2) Dwayne Bravo (Chennai Super Kings) – 38 Years
Dwayne Bravo has retired from international cricket, but will yet again form an important part of the CSK bowling attack next season. He was signed by the franchise at IPL 2022 Mega-Auctions.
Bravo is on the cusp of becoming the highest wicket-taker in the league. Hence, it will be an exciting tournament for the West Indian player. Also, with Deepak Chahar missing a few games, Bravo will have more responsibility in the bowling department.
1) MS Dhoni (Chennai Super Kings) – 40 Years
MS Dhoni stands at No.1 in this list of the oldest players who will play in IPL 2022. Before the auctions, many thought that MSD will bid adieu to his career. However, he was retained by CSK and hence, it was confirmed that he would play IPL 2022.
Although his recent form with the bat is worrisome, MSD’s impact as a wicket-keeper and captain is phenomenal. CSK anyways has had a deep batting line-up in the last few seasons and if Dhoni can play with freedom, he could still win a few games for his team with the willow.
