Oldest Players in T20 World Cup 2026:
While T20 cricket is often seen as the domain of youthful vigour, the 2026 World Cup will highlight the prowess of experienced players who defy age norms. These players, stepping onto the field on February 7th, are at an age when many have already retired.
In recent years, teams blending youth and seasoned veterans have excelled in T20 cricket. This edition will showcase players over 40 years old who remain fit and formidable.
Brendan Taylor (Zimbabwe):
The seasoned wicketkeeper-batsman from Zimbabwe, Brendan Taylor, is making a sensational comeback after his ban ended. Celebrating his 40th birthday on February 6th, Taylor has scored 1,185 runs in 58 T20 Internationals, including six half-centuries and a century. Last year, he became the oldest to score a T20I century against Botswana.
Source: aajtak
Mohammad Nabi (Afghanistan):
A reliable name in Afghanistan Cricket, Mohammad Nabi was part of their inaugural T20 World Cup in 2010 and has captained the team. Now 41, Nabi has amassed 2,430 runs and claimed 104 wickets in 147 T20I matches. His all-round skills are vital to Afghanistan’s strategy, especially on home-like pitches.
Source: aajtak
Roelof van der Merwe (Netherlands):
Having represented South Africa and later the Netherlands, van der Merwe celebrates his 41st birthday on December 31st. In 67 T20I matches, he has scored 561 runs and taken 74 wickets. His bowling prowess is highlighted by an average of 18.85 and an economy rate of 6.51, phenomenal stats in T20 cricket.
Source: aajtak
Wayne Madsen (Italy):
Leading the Italian Cricket Team, Wayne Madsen turns 42 on January 2nd. Born in Durban, he has played seven T20I matches, scoring 205 runs, including two half-centuries. His recent 61-run innings against Ireland was a key performance.
Source: aajtak
Mohammad Nadeem (Oman):
Topping the age chart, former Oman captain Mohammad Nadeem will be the oldest player in T20 World Cup 2026. At 43, born in Sialkot Pakistan, Nadeem has aggregated 805 runs and taken 40 wickets in 70 T20I games, serving as a pillar of experience and leadership for Oman.
Source: aajtak
This eagerly awaited tournament, co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka, runs from February 7 to March 8, 2026, featuring 20 teams divided into four groups. A total of 54 exhilarating matches are set to unfold.
Group A: India, Pakistan, Ireland, USA, Canada
Group B: Australia, Sri Lanka, Zimbabwe, Namibia, Netherlands
Group C: England, West Indies, Scotland, Nepal, Italy
Group D: South Africa, New Zealand, Afghanistan, Oman, UAE
