Top 3 cricketers who made their international debut after turning 35

The twenties are widely regarded as the ideal time to begin a career in sport, with athletes typically at their physical peak and full of youthful energy. Once they cross the age of 30, it is often believed that reflexes begin to slow and performances start to decline.

However, cricket has witnessed several remarkable exceptions, with some players defying the odds and making their international debut only after turning 35. Here are three notable cricketers who earned their first international cap later than most players:

1. Michael Klinger (Australia)

Michael Klinger's road to international cricket was full of hardships. A prolific run-scorer in Australia's domestic circuit for South Australia and later Western Australia, Klinger amassed thousands of first-class and List A runs before finally receiving his opportunity at the highest level.

He made his T20I debut for Australia against Sri Lanka in Melbourne on February 17, 2017, at the age of 36 years and 228 days. He could only play three T20Is in his career, scoring 143 runs at an average of 47.66 and a strike rate of 127.67.

2. Shaun von Berg (South Africa)

Shaun von Berg's international debut was a reward for nearly two decades of hard work in South African domestic cricket. The leg-spinning all-rounder consistently impressed across formats but had to wait until his late 30s before earning a national call-up.

Von Berg finally made his Test debut against New Zealand in Hamilton on February 13 2024, at the age of 37 years and 150 days. He has played just one Test in his career and scored 40 runs, while remaining wicketless after bowling 29 overs.

3. C. K. Nayudu (India)

India's first-ever Test captain, C. K. Nayudu, also belongs on this unique list. When India played their inaugural Test match against England at Lord's in 1932, Nayudu led the side and made his international debut at 36 years and 238 days.

Nayudu played seven Tests in his career, scoring 350 runs and registering two half-centuries. He also scalped nine wickets at the international level with his off-spin.