Test debut at the age of 49… 5 cricketers of the world, who made their debut at the oldest age, got captaincy at 50

New Delhi. In today's era, youth of 20-22 years of age are being considered as 'experienced'. As soon as one crosses the age of 35, discussions about retirement start. Then the pages of the history of Test cricket tell a different story. In the 149 years of cricket, there have been some players who made their international debut at the age when today's players are seen in the coaching or commentary box. We are going to tell you about the 5 oldest players of Test cricket who created history right from their debut match. Let us know about these 'white bearded cricketers'.

In the first Test match of cricket history (1877), a record was made which is unbreakable even today. When James Southerton of England played his first Test match, he was 49 years and 119 days old. Interestingly, he was the first player in the history of Test cricket and also the oldest debutant. Souderton was a brilliant spinner, but unfortunately his career was limited to only two matches, as he died shortly after his debut.

The second name in this list is that of Meeran Baksh of Pakistan. In 1955, when there was a match between India and Pakistan in Lahore, Miran Baksh made his Test debut at the age of 47 years and 284 days. Meeran was considered a legend of domestic cricket, but he got his chance on the international stage quite late. He impressed with his off-spin against India, but due to his increasing age his international journey was also short.

The magic of spin at the age of 46
Australia's Don Blackie played his first Test against England in 1928 at the age of 46 years and 253 days. He was an off-spinner and in his debut match itself he showed what experience is. Blackie maintained excellent fitness even at that age and became an important part of the Australian bowling attack.

Herb Iron Monger made his test debut at the age of 46
Just one match before Don Blakey's debut, Australia gave a chance to another older player. Herb Iron Monger started his Test career at the age of 46 years and 237 days. He was such a bowler who could deceive any batsman with the magic of his fingers. Iron Monger's career lasted till the age of 50, which is an example in itself.

Captaincy and debut of Nelson Betancourt together
Nelson Betancourt of West Indies made his debut against England in 1930 at the age of 42 years and 242 days. His story is special because he not only got a chance to debut, but he also captained the team. He was one of the pillars of the early era of West Indies cricket who gave discipline and strength to the game.

compulsion or respect for talent
Looking at these figures the question that comes to mind is why so much delay? There were many reasons behind this. Due to the first and second world wars, 5-10 years of the career of many players were ruined. In that era, teams used to tour once in a year, due to which there were less opportunities. These players proved themselves in domestic cricket for decades, after which the doors of the national team opened.