THE Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 The mini-auction, which will take place in Abu Dhabi, is a battleground where young people often dictate the narrative. Teams are generally looking for new, high-level talent to build for the future. However, the official player list reveals that experience and national pedigree still have a powerful appeal. Among the hundreds of young players and established stars stand out a handful of veteran cricketers, all close to or already 37, who are out 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, unique skills and the quiet hunger of cricketers looking for 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 an excellent domestic record can keep the dream alive. Saxena, an all-rounder and all-rounder, is an undisputed titan of Indian first-class cricket. He is known for being the first Indian cricketer to achieve the monumental Ranji Trophy double of 6,000 runs and 400 wickets. His recent consistency in shorter formats, including the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, makes him a very reliable utility player.
Despite limited IPL appearances for franchises like Punjab Kings, his low base price (₹40 lakh) and dual threat as a reliable off-spinner and solid middle-order batsman make him a great, cost-effective backup option for any team looking to strengthen their Indian core.
2. Karn Sharma (Age: 38)
Karn has been a quiet constant in the IPL landscape for over a decade. The Uttar Pradesh leg-spinner has represented some of the most successful franchises and enjoys a distinguished reputation as a ‘trophy winner’, having been part of several IPL winning teams. With 83 wickets in 90 IPL matches, his strength lies in his ability to maintain a tight economy and pick up wickets in the crucial middle overs. He is a cunning operator, able to outwit batsmen with subtle variations in pace and flight.
After being released by Mumbai Indians, Karn enters 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 that need an experienced Indian spinner who can deliver reliable performances when called upon.
3. Umesh Yadav (Age: 38)
A seasoned Indian international fast bowler, Umesh has been a fixture in the IPL since 2009. Known for his 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 victories to teams like Delhi and Kolkata. Although his form has seen minor fluctuations, his ability to provide explosive pace and early breakthroughs remains undeniable.
Umesh opted for a high base price (₹1.5 crore), reflecting his confidence in its sustainable pace. Teams looking for a senior Indian fast bowler to lead the attack in the Powerplay overs – a role he excels in – will likely spark a bidding war for the veteran.
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4. Richard Gleeson (Age: 38)
England’s Gleeson embodies 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 difficult lengths and deliver crucial cuts. Gleeson has a reputation for playing in the global franchise leagues, and his brief but impactful IPL stints with Chennai Super Kings and Mumbai Indians have shown he can deliver under pressure. His high point includes dismissing India’s best batsmen in his first international outings.
Listed at a base price of ₹75 lakh, Gleeson is an attractive option for franchises looking for an experienced pacer overseas, especially those who want a bowler who can hit hard on the play and offer subtle variations in the middle and at the death.
5. Dwaine Pretorius (Age: 37)
South African all-rounder Pretorius is a proven asset in T20 cricket, bringing a rare combination of lower-order power hitting and excellent change-of-pace bowling, particularly at the death. Having been a key player for the Chennai Super Kings, Pretorius has the experience of thriving in the demanding, high-stakes atmosphere of the IPL. His bowling, with its emphasis on smart falls and seam variations, makes it a difficult proposition even for the best finishers.
With a base price of ₹1 crore, Pretorius is a hot commodity for his all-around skills. He fills a specific niche as an overseas bowler and power hitter, a role that several teams will be desperate to secure to balance their XI.
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