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R Ashwin Retires At 38: 5 Oldest Indian Cricketers To Play Test Cricket

Abhinav Tyagi

R Ashwin and Rohit- (Source:@Johns/X.com)R Ashwin and Rohit- (Source:@Johns/X.com)

On Wednesday, December 18, R Ashwin shook the world after he announced his international retirement at the age of 38. He bid adieu to the game after serving the nation for 15 years from 2010-2024. 

Ashwin was a part of the ongoing BGT series and featured in just one Test. He held a press conference after the Gabba Test and revealed his decision. Age is one of the reasons behind the decision as he is 38 years and 90 days would have turned 39 before the next home Test series in October 2025.

This article will shed light on the five oldest cricketers to have played for India. 

5. Erapalli Prasanna - 38 years and 163 days

The legendary Indian spinner, who was a part of the renowned Indian spin quartet- Chandrashekhar, Bishan Singh Bedi, and Venkataraghavan. Prasanna, who made his India debut at the age of 22 in 1962, played his last match in 1978 at the age of 38 years and 163 days. 

4. Rahul Dravid - 39 years and 13 days old

Rahul Dravid, one of the finest Test batters in the world, made his India debut in 1996 at the age of 23 and played his last Test in 2012 when he was 39 years and 13 days old. 

3. Sachin Tendulkar - 40 years and 204 days

The master blaster, who holds the record for the longest career in men's cricket, made his international debut in 1989 at the age of 16. Tendulkar featured in his last game for India in 2013 at his home ground in Wankhede Stadium at the age of 40 years and 204 days.

2. C. K. Nayudu - 40 years and 289 days

The legendary C.K Nayudu, who was the first captain of the Indian team, made his international debut in 1932 at the age of 37 and retired after a four-year-long career at the age of 40 years and 289 days.

1. Vinoo Mankad - 41 years and 305 days

Vinoo Mankad, who was touted as one of the best spinning all-rounders of his time, made his India debut at the age of 29 in 1946. He represented the side for 13 years and last played a match at the age of 41 years and 305 days. 

To date, Mankad is the oldest cricketer to play for India in Test cricket.