In this article, we’ll uncover a rare and surprising record of the Oldest Players to Win IPL Man of the Match Award. The IPL isn’t just a cricket league; it’s a full-blown craze in India players from around the world dream of being a part of it. While we often hear about records like most sixes or highest scores, today we’re diving into something unexpected veteran legends who defied age and stole the spotlight.
5. Chris Gayle (KXIP) – 41 Years, 35 Days vs KKR, Sharjah (2020)
Even in the twilight of his career, Chris Gayle proved that age is no barrier to dominance. At 41 years and 35 days old, the Universe Boss showed no signs of slowing down when he took the field for Kings XI Punjab against Kolkata Knight Riders in Sharjah during the 2020 IPL season. Known for his monstrous six-hitting ability and cool demeanor, Gayle delivered a classic performance that reminded fans why he is one of the most feared batsmen in T20 history.
In that match, Gayle played a match-winning knock that combined experience, timing, and brute power. Despite the pressure of the chase, he remained composed and unleashed a flurry of boundaries that dismantled the KKR bowling attack. His ability to read bowlers and accelerate at the right moment showed the class that comes only with years of top-level cricket. The Man of the Match award was well-deserved, highlighting that even at 41, Gayle could turn a game on its head.
| Match Details | Performance |
|---|---|
| Team | Kings XI Punjab |
| Opponent | Kolkata Knight Riders |
| Venue | Sharjah |
| Year | 2020 |
| Age | 41 Years, 35 Days |
| Awarded For | Match-winning innings under pressure |
4. Adam Gilchrist (KXIP) – 41 Years, 181 Days vs RCB, Bengaluru (2013)
Adam Gilchrist’s impact in the IPL went far beyond his leadership. At 41 years and 181 days old, during a game between Kings XI Punjab and Royal Challengers Bangalore in 2013, Gilchrist rolled back the years with a brilliant all-round performance that earned him the Man of the Match award.
What made this performance so iconic wasn’t just his batting—it was the surprise element. Gilchrist stunned everyone by deciding to bowl the final over of the match, and to everyone’s amazement, he took a wicket with his very first delivery! It was the kind of moment only Gilchrist could deliver: entertaining, unpredictable, and effective. With the bat, he guided the chase with confidence and ensured victory for his side.
At a time when most cricketers transition into commentary or coaching, Gilchrist proved he could still outplay much younger opponents on the field. His energy, competitive spirit, and cricketing intelligence were on full display.
| Match Details | Performance |
|---|---|
| Team | Kings XI Punjab |
| Opponent | Royal Challengers Bangalore |
| Venue | Bengaluru |
| Year | 2013 |
| Age | 41 Years, 181 Days |
| Awarded For | All-round match-winning performance including a surprise wicket |
3. Shane Warne (RR) – 41 Years, 211 Days vs DD, Jaipur (2011)
Shane Warne was a magician with the ball, and his leadership in the IPL helped shape the identity of Rajasthan Royals. At 41 years and 211 days old, during a match against Delhi Daredevils in Jaipur in 2011, Warne put on a masterclass in leg-spin bowling that earned him the Man of the Match award.
In that match, Warne’s guile, variation, and accuracy tied the Delhi batters in knots. Despite the format heavily favoring batsmen, Warne’s bowling remained a puzzle too complex for many to solve. His ability to outthink opponents and vary his pace and flight made him a lethal weapon even at 41.
His performance was a reminder that cricket isn’t only about youth and strength—it’s also about outsmarting the opposition. Warne’s efforts that day were vintage, proving that true legends never lose their touch.
| Match Details | Performance |
|---|---|
| Team | Rajasthan Royals |
| Opponent | Delhi Daredevils |
| Venue | Jaipur |
| Year | 2011 |
| Age | 41 Years, 211 Days |
| Awarded For | Outstanding leg-spin bowling performance |
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2. Pravin Tambe (RR) – 42 Years, 200 Days vs RCB, Abu Dhabi (2014)
If there’s one player who defied all odds in the IPL, it’s Pravin Tambe. At 42 years and 200 days old, he earned the Man of the Match award in a game against Royal Challengers Bangalore in Abu Dhabi during the 2014 season. Tambe’s journey to the IPL is inspirational—he made his debut at an age when most players retire.
In that match, Tambe dismantled the RCB batting lineup with his clever leg-spin. His control, variations, and fearless attitude surprised everyone. He wasn’t the fastest, strongest, or most athletic—but he used his mind, skills, and passion to dominate top-class batsmen. His performance silenced critics and inspired many aspiring cricketers to chase their dreams, regardless of age.
Tambe’s story reminds us that passion and perseverance can take you further than anyone expects.
| Match Details | Performance |
|---|---|
| Team | Rajasthan Royals |
| Opponent | Royal Challengers Bangalore |
| Venue | Abu Dhabi |
| Year | 2014 |
| Age | 42 Years, 200 Days |
| Awarded For | Game-changing leg-spin spell |
1. MS Dhoni (CSK) – 43 Years, 282 Days vs LSG, Lucknow (2025)
At the top of the list stands the legendary Mahendra Singh Dhoni, who became the oldest player to win the Man of the Match award in IPL history at a stunning 43 years and 282 days. In a highly anticipated clash between Chennai Super Kings and Lucknow Super Giants in 2025, Dhoni showed the world that “Thala” still had plenty left in the tank.
With CSK in a tricky situation, Dhoni walked out to bat and turned back the clock. In true finisher style, he smashed quick runs in the death overs, guiding his team to a strong total. But it wasn’t just his batting—his wicketkeeping reflexes remained lightning-fast, and his tactical captaincy created immense pressure on LSG throughout the match.
At an age when most players are long retired, Dhoni’s hunger, fitness, and cricketing mind allowed him to stand tall among the younger generation. This historic performance added another feather to his already iconic cap.
| Match Details | Performance |
|---|---|
| Team | Chennai Super Kings |
| Opponent | Lucknow Super Giants |
| Venue | Lucknow |
| Year | 2025 |
| Age | 43 Years, 282 Days |
| Awarded For | Classic finishing knock and sharp wicketkeeping |
