The IPL mega auction It is always a spectacle that catches the attention of cricket fans and franchises. Some of the oldest players on the roster will be in the spotlight as the 2025 auction approaches, scheduled for November 24 and 25 in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. This year, there are five remarkable cricketers who are not only legends of the game, but also at a stage that could be their last chance to make an impact in the IPL.
Five oldest players to participate in IPL 2025 mega auction
James Anderson – Veteran Swing King (Age: 42)
James Andersonthe famous English fast bowler makes headlines as the oldest player in this auction at the age of 42. Known for his extraordinary swing bowling and longevity in international cricket, Anderson recently retired from Test cricket but remains fit and competitive. His experience in high-pressure situations makes him a valuable asset to 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 in need of an experienced bowler.
Faf du Plessis – Calm Leader (Age: 40)
Faf du Plessisformer captain South Africa and Royal Challengers BengaluruAt 40, he continues to be a formidable presence. His consistent performances in T20 leagues around the world highlight his aggressive batting style and leadership qualities. Du Plessis has shown that he can still compete at the highest levels, which makes him an attractive option for teams in need of reliable top-order corpses. With a base price set at INR 2 crore, he will be one of the most sought-after players during the auction.
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Mohammad Nabi – Afghan Dynamo (Age: 40)
Afghan all-rounder Muhammad Nabi At the age of 40, he is preparing to make his mark again. Known for his off-bowling and explosive batting, Nabi brings a wealth of experience from T20 leagues around the world. His tactical insight and ability to perform under pressure make him an invaluable asset to any team looking to strengthen their all-round options. With a base price of INR 1.5 crore, Nabi’s proven track record could see him picked by franchises looking for game changers.
Ravichandran Ashwin – Tactical Genius (Age: 38)
Ravichandran Ashwin Enters the auction at 38 but remains one of the smartest bowlers in T20 cricket. His spin abilities coupled with his ability to score quick runs make him an attractive option for teams looking for both bowling prowess and batting depth. Ashwin’s strategic thinking on the field could also benefit the younger players, potentially positioning him as a mentor in any squad he joins. With a base price of INR 2 crore, his dual role as a seasoned player and mentor can be eye-catching.
David Warner – Explosive Wrench (Age: 38)
David Warner At the age of 38, he enters the IPL mega auction, still full of strength and determination. A former IPL winning captain and one of the league’s most consistent performers, Warner has scored an impressive 6,565 runs at an average of 40.52 in his IPL career. His aggressive hitting style makes him a prime candidate for teams looking for explosive starts at the top of the lineup. With a base price set at INR 2 crore, Warner’s expertise and experience could see him attract significant bids from franchises looking to boost their batting ranks.
| Player Name | Nationality | Role | Covered or Uncovered | Base Price (INR) | Age |
| James Anderson | England | Bowler | Covered | 1.25 mln | 42 |
| Faf du Plessis | South Africa | Dough | Covered | 2 million | 40 |
| Muhammad Nabi | Afghanistan | Comprehensive | Covered | 1.5 mln | 40 |
| Ravichandaran Ashwin | India | Comprehensive | Covered | 2 million | 38 |
| David Warner | Australia | Dough | Covered | 2 million | 38 |
Why would teams bid on these veterans?
The inclusion of these experienced players in the IPL mega auction reflects not only their individual skills but also their potential contribution to team dynamics. As franchises aim to balance youth with experience, these veterans offer invaluable insights and leadership qualities that can guide young players in high-stakes matches.
Furthermore, each player’s unique skill set meets the specific needs of the team – be it bowling depth, middle-order consistency or strategic acumen – making them highly desirable options despite their age. For many of these players, this auction is the last 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 iconic cricketers who have dedicated their lives to the sport.
