The IPL mega auction is always a spectacle, drawing attention from cricket fans and franchises alike. As the 2025 auction approaches, scheduled for November 24 and 25 in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, the spotlight will be on some of the oldest players in the list. This year features five remarkable cricketers who are not only legends of the game but are also at a stage where this could be their final chance to make an impact in the IPL.
Five oldest players to feature in the IPL 2025 mega auction
James Anderson – The veteran swing king (Age: 42)
James Anderson, the iconic English fast bowler, is making headlines as the oldest player in this auction at 42 years old. Known for his exceptional swing bowling and longevity in international cricket, Anderson has recently retired from Test cricket but remains fit and competitive. His experience in high-pressure situations makes him a valuable asset for any franchise looking to bolster their bowling attack. Despite not having played T20 cricket since 2014, his tactical acumen and skill set could attract significant interest from teams needing a seasoned bowler.
Faf du Plessis – The calm headed leader (Age: 40)
Faf du Plessis, the former captain of South Africa and Royal Challengers Bengaluru, continues to be a formidable presence at 40 years old. His consistent performances in T20 leagues worldwide highlight his aggressive batting style and leadership qualities. Du Plessis has shown that he can still compete at the highest levels, making him an attractive option for teams needing a reliable top-order batter. With a base price set at INR 2 crore, he is likely to be one of the most sought-after players during the auction.
Also READ: Top 5 openers franchises can target in the IPL 2025 mega auction
Mohammad Nabi – The Afghan dynamo (Age: 40)
Afghan all-rounder Mohammad Nabi is set to make his mark once again at age 40. Renowned for his off-spin bowling and explosive batting lower down the order, Nabi brings a wealth of experience from T20 leagues around the globe. His tactical insight and ability to perform under pressure make him an invaluable asset for any team looking to strengthen their all-rounder options. With a base price of INR 1.5 crore, Nabi’s proven track record could see him picked up by franchises looking for game-changers.
Ravichandran Ashwin – The tactical genius (Age: 38)
Ravichandran Ashwin enters the auction at 38 years old but remains one of the most intelligent bowlers in T20 cricket. His off-spin capabilities combined with his ability to score quick runs make him an appealing choice for teams seeking both bowling prowess and batting depth. Ashwin’s strategic thinking on the field can also benefit younger players, potentially positioning him as a mentor within any squad he joins. With a base price of INR 2 crore, his dual role as an experienced player and mentor could attract considerable attention.
David Warner – The explosive opener (Age: 38)
David Warner enters the IPL mega auction at 38 years old, still brimming with power and determination. A former IPL-winning captain and one of the league’s most consistent performers, Warner has racked up an impressive 6,565 runs in his IPL career at an average of 40.52. His aggressive batting style makes him a prime candidate for teams seeking explosive starts at the top of the order. With a base price set at INR 2 crore, Warner’s experience and track record could see him attract significant bids from franchises looking to enhance their batting lineup.
| Player Name | Nationality | Role | Capped or Uncapped | Base Price (INR) | Age |
| James Anderson | England | Bowler | Capped | 1.25 crore | 42 |
| Faf du Plessis | South Africa | Batter | Capped | 2 crore | 40 |
| Mohammad Nabi | Afghanistan | All-rounder | Capped | 1.5 crore | 40 |
| Ravichandaran Ashwin | India | All-rounder | Cappped | 2 crore | 38 |
| David Warner | Australia | Batter | Capped | 2 crore | 38 |
Why teams will bid on these veterans?
The inclusion of these seasoned players in the IPL mega auction reflects not only their individual skills but also their potential contributions to team dynamics. As franchises aim to balance youth with experience, these veterans offer invaluable insights and leadership qualities that can guide younger players through high-stakes matches.
Moreover, each player’s unique skill set addresses specific team needs—be it bowling depth, middle-order stability, or strategic acumen—which makes them highly desirable picks despite their age. For many of these players, this auction represents a final opportunity to showcase their talents on one of cricket’s biggest stages. As the IPL Mega Auction approaches, all eyes will be on these five remarkable cricketers who have dedicated their lives to the sport.