Top 5 Oldest players to score a century in IPL
The Indian Premier League (IPL) is a stage where young and experienced players showcase their batting skills. Scoring a century in the IPL is a big achievement, but doing it at an older age is even more special. These players have shown that age is just a number by smashing hundreds against tough opponents. So, who are the top 5 oldest players to score a century in IPL history?
1. Adam Gilchrist
Adam Gilchrist, the former Australian wicketkeeper-batsman, tops the list of the oldest players to score a century in IPL. Playing for Kings XI Punjab, Gilchrist was 39 years and 184 days old when he scored 106 runs against Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) in Dharamsala on 17 May 2011. His knock came off just 55 balls, with 8 fours and 9 sixes, at a strike rate of 192.72.
Gilchrist’s explosive innings helped his team chase a big total. His ability to dominate bowlers at such an age made this century unforgettable. Therefore, Gilchrist holds the record as one of the oldest players to score a hundred in IPL.
2. Sanath Jayasuriya
Sanath Jayasuriya, the Sri Lankan legend, is second on the list. Playing for Mumbai Indians, Jayasuriya was 38 years and 319 days old when he smashed an unbeaten 114 against Chennai Super Kings (CSK) at Wankhede Stadium on 14 May 2008. His century came off just 48 balls, with 9 fours and 11 sixes, at an incredible strike rate of 237.50.
Jayasuriya’s aggressive batting set the tone for Mumbai’s chase. His quick scoring showed why he was a feared batsman even in his late 30s. As a result, Jayasuriya is among the oldest players to score a century in IPL.
3. Chris Gayle
Chris Gayle, the West Indian power-hitter, takes the third spot. Playing for Kings XI Punjab, Gayle was 38 years and 210 days old when he scored an unbeaten 104 against Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) in Mohali on 19 April 2018. His century came off 63 balls, with 1 four and 11 sixes, at a strike rate of 165.07.
Gayle’s knock was a mix of patience and aggression, guiding his team to victory. His ability to hit big sixes at this age thrilled fans. Consequently, Gayle’s name shines among the oldest players to score a hundred in IPL.
4. Sachin Tendulkar
Sachin Tendulkar, India’s cricket icon, is fourth on the list. Playing for Mumbai Indians, Tendulkar was 37 years and 356 days old when he scored an unbeaten 100 against Kochi Tuskers Kerala at Wankhede Stadium on 15 April 2011. His century came off 66 balls, with 12 fours and 3 sixes, at a strike rate of 151.51.
Tendulkar’s elegant innings helped Mumbai post a strong total. His calm and classy batting at nearly 38 years old inspired millions. Thus, Tendulkar is one of the oldest players to score a century in IPL.
5. Rohit Sharma
Rounding off the list is Rohit Sharma, the Mumbai Indians captain. Sharma was 36 years and 350 days old when he scored an unbeaten 105 against Chennai Super Kings (CSK) at Wankhede Stadium on 14 April 2024. His century came off 63 balls, with 11 fours and 5 sixes, at a strike rate of 166.66.
Sharma’s knock was a brilliant display of leadership and skill, though his team fell short. His ability to score big at 36 made this century special. Therefore, Sharma is among the oldest players to score a hundred in IPL.
These centuries had a huge impact on their teams and fans. For instance, Gilchrist’s 106 and Jayasuriya’s 114* led to memorable victories. Similarly, Tendulkar’s 100* set up a strong total, while Gayle’s 104* ensured a comfortable chase. Although Sharma’s 105* couldn’t win the game, it showed his fighting spirit. Consequently, these knocks by the oldest players to score a century in IPL are etched in IPL history.
Top 5 oldest players to score a century in IPL:
| Player | Team | Age | Runs | Balls Faced | 4s | 6s | Strike Rate | Opposition | Ground | Date |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| AC Gilchrist | Kings XI Punjab | 39y 184d | 106 | 55 | 8 | 9 | 192.72 | RCB | Dharamsala | 17 May 2011 |
| ST Jayasuriya | Mumbai Indians | 38y 319d | 114* | 48 | 9 | 11 | 237.50 | CSK | Wankhede | 14 May 2008 |
| CH Gayle | Kings XI Punjab | 38y 210d | 104* | 63 | 1 | 11 | 165.07 | SRH | Mohali | 19 Apr 2018 |
| SR Tendulkar | Mumbai Indians | 37y 356d | 100* | 66 | 12 | 3 | 151.51 | Kochi | Wankhede | 15 Apr 2011 |
| RG Sharma | Mumbai Indians | 36y 350d | 105* | 63 | 11 | 5 | 166.66 | CSK | Wankhede | 14 Apr 2024 |
The top 5 oldest players to score a century in IPL are Adam Gilchrist, Sanath Jayasuriya, Chris Gayle, Sachin Tendulkar, and Rohit Sharma. Their centuries, filled with fours and sixes, thrilled fans and helped their teams. Whether it’s Jayasuriya’s blazing 114* or Sharma’s gritty 105*, these knocks are IPL classics.
