Top 5 Oldest Players in the IPL 2026 Mini Auction

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 usually have an eye for new talent with a high ceiling to build the future. However, the official player list shows that experience and domestic origins still have a powerful appeal. Among the hundreds of young players and established stars, a handful of experienced cricketers stand out, all approaching or already over 37, who are ready to prove that age is just a number.

A mix of domestic toppers and international veterans, these five players bring with them 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. An all-rounder, Saxena is an undisputed titan of Indian first-class cricket. He is famously the first Indian cricketer to achieve the monumental Ranji Trophy double of 6,000 runs and 400 wickets. His recent consistency in the shorter formats, including the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, makes him a very reliable utility player.

Despite making 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 an excellent, cost-effective backup option for any team looking to strengthen its Indian core.

2. Karn Sharma (Age: 38)

Karn has been a quiet constant in the IPL landscape for over a decade. The leg-spinner from Uttar Pradesh has represented some of the most successful franchises and has a distinguished reputation as a ‘trophy winner’, having been part of several IPL-winning squads. With 83 wickets in 90 IPL matches, his strength lies in his ability to maintain a tight economy and take wickets in the crucial middle overs. He is a cunning operator who can outsmart 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 extensive experience in various 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)

A veteran Indian international fast bowler, Umesh has been a regular in the IPL since 2009. Known for his blazing pace and ability to swing the new ball, Umesh is one of the league’s most experienced pace exponents. With 144 wickets from 148 IPL matches, he has delivered match-winning spells for teams like Delhi and Kolkata in his career. While his form has seen minor fluctuations, his ability to provide explosive pace and early breakthroughs remains undeniable.

Umesh has opted for a high base price (₹1.5 crore), reflecting his confidence in his continued pace. Teams looking for a senior Indian fast bowler to lead the attack in the Powerplay overs – a role in which he excels – are likely to spark a bidding war for the veteran.

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4. Richard Gleeson (Age: 38)

England’s Gleeson embodies the spirit of perseverance after making his international debut at the age of 34. The right-arm fast-medium bowler is celebrated for his ability to hit hard lengths and deliver crucial cutters. Gleeson has a reputation for performing in global franchise competitions, and his short but impressive IPL spells with Chennai Super Kings and Mumbai Indians have shown that he can perform under pressure. His highlights include dismissing top Indian batsmen during his first international appearances.

Offered at a base price of ₹75 lakh, Gleeson is an attractive option for franchises looking for an experienced overseas pacer, especially those who want a bowler who can hit the deck hard and offer subtle variations in the middle and death overs.

5. Dwaine Pretorius (Age: 37)

South African all-rounder Pretorius is a proven asset in T20 cricket and brings a rare combination of lower-order batting and excellent change-of-pace bowling, especially at the death. Pretorius has been a key player for Chennai Super Kings and has experience in the demanding, high-stakes atmosphere of the IPL. His bowling, focused on clever off-cutters and seam variations, makes him a difficult proposition for even the best finishers.

With a base price of ₹1 crore, Pretorius is a sought-after product for its all-round skills. He fills a specific niche as an overseas death bowler and power hitter, a role that several teams will desperately try to secure to balance their squads.

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