Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 The mini-auctions taking place in Abu Dhabi are a battleground where youth often dictate the narrative. Teams usually look to new, top-level talent to build for the future. However, the official player list shows that experience and home-grown pedigree is still a powerful attraction. Amidst the hundreds of young players and established stars stand out some veteran cricketers who are nearing or have already crossed 37, who are ready to prove that age is just a number.
These five players, a mix of domestic stalwarts and international veterans, bring a wealth of match experience, unrivaled skills and a quiet hunger for cricketers seeking one last chance in the world’s most competitive T20 league.
5 oldest players in IPL 2026 auction
1. Jalaj Saxena (Age: 39)
At 39, Jalaj is the oldest player to register for the IPL 2026 auction, proving that a great domestic record can keep the dream alive. An off-spinning all-rounder, Saxena is an undisputed legend of Indian first-class cricket. He is famously the first Indian cricketer to achieve the double of 6,000 runs and 400 wickets in Ranji Trophy. His recent consistency in the shorter formats, including the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, makes him a highly dependable utility player.
Despite limited IPL performances for franchises like Punjab Kings, his low base price (₹40 lakh) and his dual challenge as a reliable off-spinner and a solid middle-order batsman make him an excellent, cost-effective backup option for any team looking to strengthen their Indian core.
2. Karan Sharma (Age: 38)
Karn has been a quiet player in the IPL scene for over a decade. The leg spinner from Uttar Pradesh has represented some of the most successful franchises and has earned a distinct reputation as a “trophy winner” by being a part of several IPL-winning teams. With 83 wickets in 90 IPL matches, his strength lies in his ability to maintain tight economy and take wickets in the crucial middle overs. He is a clever operator, able to deceive batsmen with subtle changes in pace and flight.
After being released by Mumbai Indians, Karn entered the auction with a base price of ₹30 lakh. His vast experience in different team environments and pressure situations makes him an ideal, low-cost option for teams in need of an experienced Indian spinner who can deliver reliable performances when called upon.
3. Umesh Yadav (Age: 38)
An experienced Indian international fast bowler, Umesh has been in the IPL since 2009. Known for his intense pace and ability to swing the new ball, Umesh is one of the most experienced pace exponents in the league. With 144 wickets in 148 IPL matches, his career has seen him deliver match-winning spells for teams like Delhi and Kolkata. Although his form has seen slight ups and downs, his explosive pace and ability to provide early success remains undisputed.
Umesh has chosen a high base price (₹1.5 crore), which shows his confidence in his sustainable pace. With teams looking for a senior Indian fast bowler to lead the attack in the powerplay overs – a role he excels in – there will likely be a bidding war for the veteran.
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4. Richard Gleeson (Age: 38)
England’s Gleeson epitomizes the spirit of perseverance, having made his international debut at the age of 34. The right-arm fast-medium bowler is celebrated for his ability to hit tough lengths and deliver crucial cutters. Gleeson has a reputation for performing in global franchise leagues, and his brief but impressive IPL stints with Chennai Super Kings and Mumbai Indians have shown that he can perform well under pressure. His highlight reel includes dismissing top Indian batsmen in his debut international matches.
Listed at a base price of ₹75 lakh, Gleeson is an attractive option for franchises looking for an experienced overseas fast bowler, especially those who want a bowler who is capable of hitting the deck hard and offering subtle variations in the middle and death overs.
5. Dwayne Pretorius (Age: 37)
South African all-rounder Pretorius is a proven asset in T20 cricket, bringing a rare combination of lower-order hitting power and excellent change-of-pace bowling, especially in the death overs. Having been a key player for the Chennai Super Kings, Pretorius has the experience to thrive in the demanding, high-risk environment of the IPL. His bowling, focused on clever off-cutters and seam variations, makes him a difficult proposition even for the best finishers.
With a base price of ₹1 crore, Pretorius is a hot commodity for his all-round skills. He fills a niche as an overseas death bowler and power-hitter, a role that many teams will be desperately trying to secure to balance their XI.
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