Age is just a number in cricket, and some players have proved it on the T20 stage. On Saturday, August 23, South African spinner Imran Tahir showed why he is still one of the best. The 46-year-old became the first player in T20 cricket history to take a five-wicket haul after turning 40. His passion and energy continue to inspire fans across the world.
But Tahir is not the oldest cricketer to feature in a top T20 league. That record belongs to India’s Pravin Tambe. The leg-spinner played in the Caribbean Premier League (CPL) at the age of 48 in 2020. Tambe represented Trinbago Knight Riders and created history as the oldest CPL player.
Oldest players in top T20 leagues
In the SA20 league, Imran Tahir holds the record. He played for Joburg Super Kings in the 2025 season at the age of 45. Even at that age, he was a regular performer and played a key role for his team.
In the Indian Premier League (IPL), the record belongs to Australia’s Brad Hogg. The left-arm wrist-spinner played his last IPL game in 2016 for Kolkata Knight Riders. He was 45 years and 92 days old at that time.
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For The Hundred in England, Imran Tahir again features on the list. He played for Birmingham Phoenix in 2022 at the age of 43 years and 149 days. His skill and experience made him one of the most valuable players in the short-format competition.
In the Pakistan Super League (PSL), the oldest player has been Misbah-ul-Haq. The former Pakistan captain played his final PSL match in 2019 for Peshawar Zalmi. He was 44 years old at that time.
In the Big Bash League (BBL) in Australia, Brad Hogg once again takes the crown. He played for Melbourne Renegades in 2018. At that time, he was 46 years and 350 days old, making him the oldest cricketer in BBL history.
These players have shown that fitness, determination, and love for the game can push the limits of age. Fans continue to celebrate their contributions to T20 cricket across the globe.
