Royal Challengers Bengaluru successfully defended their IPL title with a five-wicket win over Gujarat Titans in the year IPL 2026 Final at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad. Although the season was full of remarkable performances from young talents, the title clash belonged to them Virat KohliAn unbeaten 42-ball 75 took RCB to the trophy under pressure.
The veteran batsman’s heroics earned him the Man of the Match award and put him second on the list of oldest cricketers to receive the honor in an IPL final. At 37 years and 207 days, Kohli has once again demonstrated that experience remains one of the most valuable assets in high-stakes encounters.
Experience shines on the biggest stage
IPL finals often produce moments when seasoned campaigners rise above the pressure. Over the years, several older stars have proved that age is no barrier to excellence by turning in certain performances when it matters most.
5 oldest players to win Man of the Match award in IPL final
1. Anil Kumble – 38 Years, 219 Days (2009 Final)
Former Indian captain Anil Kumble He remains the oldest player to win the award in an IPL final. Kumble, who led Royal Challengers Bangalore against Deccan Chargers in Johannesburg in 2009, produced a sensational spell of 4 for 16 in four innings.
Despite RCB being on the losing side, his bowling performance was so exceptional that he was adjudged Man of the Match. To this day, he remains the only player to receive the award from the winning team in the IPL final.
2. Virat Kohli – 37 Years, 207 Days (2026 Finals)
Kohli’s recent masterclass against Gujarat Titans secured him the second spot in this prestigious list. Chasing a target of 156 on a tough surface, RCB anchored the valiant innings with authority and composure.
The right-hander reached his half-century in just 25 deliveries, the fastest IPL fifty, unbeaten till the end to seal the title. His performance highlighted the value of experience in pressure situations and added another memorable chapter to his illustrious IPL career.
3. Faf du Plessis – 37 Years, 94 Days (2021 Final)
Chennai Super Kings opener Faf du Plessis In 2021, he played a decisive role in the fourth triumph of the franchise. Against Kolkata Knight Riders in Dubai, the South African smashed a perfect 86 off 59 balls.
His innings provided the platform for CSK’s impressive total, which ultimately proved a lot for KKR. Du Plessis’ consistency and calm approach earned him the Player of the Match award.
4. Shane Watson – 36 Years, 344 Days (2018 Final)
One of the biggest innings in IPL finals history has arrived Shane Watson During Chennai Super Kings’ successful chase against Sunrisers Hyderabad in 2018.
After a slow start, Watson turned the competition around with a breathtaking unbeaten knock of 117 off 57 balls. His century turned a potentially difficult chase into a one-sided affair and remains one of the most iconic final performances in the history of the tournament.
5. Krunal Pandya – 34 Years, 71 Days (2025 Final)
Krunal Pandya Completes the top five after RCB’s all-round contribution in their victorious IPL 2025 campaign. The experienced all-rounder made key contributions with both bat and ball during the summit clash.
His ability to impact the game in multiple departments proved vital as RCB secured their maiden IPL title, setting the stage for the championship run that followed.
Veteran stars continue to set the tone
The list highlights a continuing trend in T20 cricket. While young players often dominate the league stage, the finals often belong to those with years of experience and the ability to thrive under pressure. Kohli’s performance in the 2026 final was a reminder that cricket’s biggest occasions often bring out the best in seasoned professionals. As IPL history continues to unfold, these veteran match winners remain shining examples of how class and composure can trump age when the championship is on the line.
Also WATCH: IPL 2026 – Virat Kohli and Anushka Sharma hit the dance floor after RCB’s title
