Georgetown: Age has proved no barrier for South African veteran spinner Imran Tahir, who has created another remarkable record in T20 cricket. At 47 years and 166 days, Tahir became the oldest player to take a five-wicket haul in the format during the Caribbean Premier League 2026.
Representing Guyana Amazon Warriors, Tahir delivered a superb spell of four overs, finishing with figures of 5 for 17. His performance played a major role in Guyana’s four-wicket victory over Saint Lucia Kings after the Kings were bowled out for 119.
Tahir’s achievement surpassed the previous record held by Cook Islands cricketer Tomakanute Ritawa, who had taken five wickets in a T20 match at the age of 46 years and 299 days in 2022.
The veteran spinner’s latest milestone is particularly impressive because it is not his first appearance among the oldest players to achieve the feat. Tahir had previously registered five-wicket hauls at the ages of 46 years and 148 days in 2025, 44 years and 323 days in 2024, and 42 years and 135 days in 2021.
His latest effort came in the 31st match of the CPL 2026 league stage. Tahir was supported by Bangladesh all-rounder Mehidy Hasan Miraz, who claimed three wickets as Saint Lucia’s innings collapsed.
Chasing 120, Guyana Amazon Warriors reached the target in 18.3 overs, although they lost six wickets along the way. Glenn Phillips contributed 37 runs from 40 deliveries, while Quentin Sampson provided a rapid boost with 37 off just 11 balls, including five sixes and a four.
Tahir’s record-breaking spell once again underlined his extraordinary longevity and ability to remain effective in elite T20 cricket. At 47, he continues to produce match-defining performances and has now added another landmark to one of the most enduring careers in the shortest format.
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