Like in any sport success in cricket depends a lot on the age factor. The legendary Sachin Tendulkar made his international debut at the age of 16 and scored a cumulative total of 100 centuries in Tests and ODIs by the time he retired when he was 40 years old. No wonder coaches lay so much emphasis on “catch them young” policy.

But not all cricketers are lucky enough to be spotted at an early age. Some of them go on and become leading figures of domestic cricket while others are unable to realise their true potential. Interestingly, some cricketers find the lady luck smiling on them late into their careers. Yet, they do not let the age factor deter them from leaving a mark.

Here we look at the careers of two such cricketers who made their debut at the highest level way past the age of 30 years and yet picked more than 100 wickets: 

1. Dilip Doshi

Dilip Doshi is someone who needs no introduction. He was the wily left-arm spinner who became an integral part of the Indian team led by Kapil Dev since making his debut at the age of 32 years. He played 33 Tests during four years from 1979-1983. He reached the milestone of 100 wickets in just 28 Tests.

It is indeed a remarkable feat that speaks volumes about his class and determination as a cricketer. Before Doshi got the chance to play for India he had made a name for himself as a brilliant spinner in county cricket. He played in an era when India boasted of legendary spinners like Bishan Singh Bedi. 

2. Clarrie Grimmett

Clarrie Grimmett was born in Dunedin, New Zealand, and later migrated to Australia where he started playing cricket at the domestic level. He made his debut as an international cricketer for Australia at the age of 34 years. Interestingly, he picked up 11 wickets in the very first Test that he played against England.

Grimmett was a leg spinner who is credited for introducing the flipper to the Gentleman’s Game as a potent weapon to outsmart batsmen. He played a total of 37 Tests and picked up 216 wickets at an impressive average of 24.22. It is indeed remarkable what Grimmett was able to achieve.

Doshi and Grimmett are the only cricketers in the history of cricket to reach the milestone of 100 wickets having debuted after the age of 30 years. The feat undoubtedly puts them amongst the rarest of the rare breed of cricketers that the world has ever produced. They have proved that with sheer talent and determination it is possible to defy age in sports