In modern cricket, age is no longer a big barrier. IPL 2026 has shown that experienced players can still perform at a high level and win matches for their teams. Many players above 30 are delivering strong performances and deserve a chance in India’s T20I team.
Here are five such players who are making a strong case with their performances.
1. Shreyas Iyer
Shreyas Iyer has been one of the most consistent middle-order batters in recent years. At 31, he brings both experience and leadership to the team.
He played a key role in helping Kolkata Knight Riders win the IPL 2024 title and later led Punjab Kings to the final in 2025. In IPL 2026, he has already scored multiple half-centuries in just a few matches.
His ability to handle pressure and guide the team makes him a strong option for India’s T20 setup.
2. Rajat Patidar
Rajat Patidar has quietly become one of the most reliable batters in the IPL. At 32, he is in great form and continues to deliver in the middle order.
In IPL 2026, he has played important innings like 31, 48 not out, 63, and 53 against strong teams such as SRH, CSK, RR, and MI.
He was also part of Royal Challengers Bengaluru’s title-winning campaign, which shows his ability to perform on big occasions.
3. Krunal Pandya
Krunal Pandya, now 35, is still proving his value as an all-rounder. He brings balance to the team with both bat and ball.
In IPL 2025, he took 17 wickets in 15 matches and maintained a good economy rate. In IPL 2026, he has already picked up 5 wickets in 4 matches.
His experience and control in pressure situations make him a useful option for India again.
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4. Prasidh Krishna
Prasidh Krishna is known for his wicket-taking ability. At 30, he is in peak form and continues to trouble batters.
He won the Purple Cap in IPL 2025 and has carried that form into IPL 2026. So far, he has taken 10 wickets in just 4 matches.
Even though he sometimes gives away runs, his ability to take important wickets makes him valuable in T20 cricket.
5. Mohammed Shami
Mohammed Shami has made a strong comeback after injury. At 35, he is still bowling with great control and experience.
He performed well in domestic cricket and is now doing a solid job in IPL 2026. He has taken 4 wickets in 4 matches with a good economy rate.
Shami has also dismissed big players like KL Rahul and Abhishek Sharma, showing he can still compete at the top level.
Key Stats at a Glance
| Player | Age | Role | IPL 2026 Performance | Key Achievement |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Shreyas Iyer | 31 | Batter / Captain | Multiple fifties in few matches | IPL-winning captain (2024), PBKS finalist (2025) |
| Rajat Patidar | 32 | Batter | 31, 48*, 63, 53 | IPL title winner with RCB |
| Krunal Pandya | 35 | All-rounder | 5 wickets in 4 matches | 17 wickets in IPL 2025 |
| Prasidh Krishna | 30 | Fast Bowler | 10 wickets in 4 matches | Purple Cap winner (2025) |
| Mohammed Shami | 35 | Fast Bowler | 4 wickets in 4 matches | Strong comeback after injury |
Final Thoughts
These players prove that experience still matters in T20 cricket. If they continue performing like this in IPL and domestic matches, they can definitely be considered for India’s T20I team.
Selectors will be watching closely, and strong performances in the coming matches could open the door for their return to international cricket.
