The Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) is one of the most popular teams in the Indian Premier League (IPL), with a loyal fan base that extends far beyond the borders of India. Over the years, the team has had some of the biggest names in cricket play for them, including legendary players like Virat Kohli, AB de Villiers, and Chris Gayle.
However, while the team has always focused on bringing in fresh talent and nurturing young players, there are some seasoned veterans in the squad who continue to play at the highest level. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the three oldest players in the RCB squad, their contributions to the team, and how they continue to defy age and perform at the highest level in one of the world’s most competitive cricket leagues.
3. Karn Sharma (October 23, 1987 – present)
Age: 35 years old
Height: 5 ft. 8 in.
Batting: Left-handed
Role: All-rounder
photo source: StarsUnfolded
Karn Sharma is an experienced all-rounder who brings a wealth of knowledge and skill to the RCB squad. Born in Meerut, Uttar Pradesh, India, Sharma is 35 years old and has been playing cricket at a professional level for over a decade. He has played for several teams in the IPL, including the Mumbai Indians, Sunrisers Hyderabad, and Chennai Super Kings, before being picked up by RCB for the 2021 season.
Sharma is known for his ability to vary his pace and deceive the batsmen with his spin, making him a valuable asset to any team. In the RCB squad, Sharma provides a strong spin-bowling option alongside fellow leg-spinner Yuzvendra Chahal. While he has not had many opportunities to play for RCB due to the team’s strong lineup, Sharma’s experience and skills make him an important player in the squad.
Did You Know?
He has won the IPL title three times, twice with the Mumbai Indians in 2013 and 2015, and once with the Chennai Super Kings in 2018.
2. Dinesh Karthik (June 1, 1985 – present)
Age: 37 years old
Height: 5 ft. 7 in.
Batting: Right-handed
Role: Wicket-keeper batsman
photo source: News18
Dinesh Karthik is a veteran wicketkeeper-batsman with a wealth of experience in the world of cricket. Born in Chennai, India, Karthik has played for several teams in the IPL, including the Kolkata Knight Riders, Gujarat Lions, and Kings XI Punjab, before being picked up by RCB for the 2021 season. Karthik is known for his quick reflexes behind the stumps and his ability to score runs quickly when batting.
He is a natural leader on the field and has captained several teams throughout his career, including the Kolkata Knight Riders in the 2018 and 2019 seasons. In the RCB squad, Karthik provides a strong option as both a wicketkeeper and a middle-order batsman. While he has not had many opportunities to play for RCB so far, his experience and leadership make him an important member of the team.
Did You Know?
Apart from his cricketing skills, Dinesh Karthik is also known for his passion for fitness and is a regular at the gym.
1. Faf du Plessis (July 13, 1984 – present)
Age: 38 years old
Height: 5 ft. 11 in.
Batting: Right-handed
Role: Batsman
photo source: The Indian Express
Considered to be the oldest RCB player, Faf du Plessis is a South African cricketer who is known for his incredible batting skills and his experience on the field. Born in Pretoria in 1984, du Plessis has had a long and illustrious career in cricket, having played for the South African national team since 2011. In the RCB squad, he is currently the oldest player at 37 years old and brings with him a wealth of experience and knowledge.
Du Plessis is known for his aggressive batting style and his ability to anchor innings, making him a valuable asset to any team. He is also an excellent fielder and has taken some incredible catches throughout his career. In addition to his cricketing skills, du Plessis is also a natural leader on the field, having captained the South African national team in several matches.
Did You Know?
Before focusing on cricket, du Plessis was an accomplished rugby player, having played as a scrum half in his youth. He was even offered a contract to play professional rugby in South Africa but chose to pursue cricket instead.
