In the past, after cricketers used to retire from internationals, they used to take up commentatory or coaching. However, in recent years, thanks to the rise of T20 cricket, players continue to be a part of the game. In this article, we take a look at a strong and balanced XI of players aged above 40 who are yet to retire from the game.
Initially, T20 was considered a format for youngsters. However, on multiple occasions, it has been proven that experience is also an important aspect. Cricket is more of a skill-based game right now, and hence, at least in the shorter formats, age is not a very big factor.
Note: The player for this XI has been selected as of December 14th, 2021.
Openers: Chris Gayle and Mohammad Hafeez
Chris Gayle and Mohammad Hafeez will open the batting for this balanced XI of players aged above 40 who are yet to retire from the game. Incidentally, both are yet to retire from international cricket and even took part in the recent T20 World Cup. That said, in the upcoming months, the duo could hang up their boots. Especially Gayle, who is set to play his farewell game in a short time. However, there is no clarity if he would continue in the league-based tournaments. Hafeez, on the other hand, might continue playing franchise cricket.
Middle-Order: Yuvraj Singh and MS Dhoni (C&WK)
Yuvraj Singh and MS Dhoni will be the middle-order batsmen for this XI of players aged above 40 who are yet to retire from the game. Yuvi, who recently turned 40, has announced that he will be back to competitive cricket. MS Dhoni has confirmed his intentions of playing IPL 2022 after CSK retained him. Hence, he is the obvious choice as the skipper and the wicket-keeper of this team.
All-Rounders: Shahid Afridi, R Satish and Darren Stevens
One of the legends of T20 cricket, Shahid Afridi will play in PSL 2022. Many feel that it might be his last campaign in the league. However, with Afridi, it is not better to predict too much. R Satish, who has played in ICL and IPL, recently lit up TNPL with a few good performances. He is an all-rounder and he could take part in the next season as well. Darren Stevens is 45-years-old but put on a good show in the recent County season. There is no clarity if he would continue, but it looks like there could be another season in him.
Bowlers: Harbhajan Singh, Rayad Emrit, Santha Moorthy, and Imran Tahir
Harbhajan Singh is close to announcing his retirement from all forms of the game. However, since he is yet to retire, he will be part of the spin attack for this XI that also features Imran Tahir. The South African is still active in franchise-based cricket and is also yet to fully announce his international retirement.
Rayad Emrit and Santha Moorthy will complete the bowling attack. Emrit took part in the recent CPL and T10 League. Santha Moorthy played last season for Pondicherry and is yet to announce his retirement. Moorthy did well with the cherry last season.
