As of the 2025 Indian Premier League (IPL) season, nine players who participated in the inaugural 2008 season are still active:
1. Mahendra Singh Dhoni: The iconic captain of Chennai Super Kings (CSK) has been with the franchise since 2008, except for the 2016 and 2017 seasons when CSK was suspended.
2. Rohit Sharma: Starting his IPL journey with Deccan Chargers in 2008, Rohit moved to Mumbai Indians (MI) in 2011 and has led them to multiple titles.
3. Virat Kohli: A stalwart for Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB), Kohli has remained loyal to the franchise since the league’s inception.
4. Ajinkya Rahane: Debuting with Mumbai Indians in 2008, Rahane has represented several teams over the years and is currently leading Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in the 2025 season.
5. Ravichandran Ashwin: Ashwin began his IPL career with CSK in 2008, played for various franchises, and has returned to CSK for the 2025 season.
6. Ravindra Jadeja: Jadeja started with Rajasthan Royals in 2008, played a pivotal role in their title win, and has been a key player for CSK in recent years.
7. Manish Pandey: Beginning with Mumbai Indians in 2008, Pandey has played for multiple teams and is currently with KKR.
8. Ishant Sharma: Ishant’s IPL journey started with Kolkata Knight Riders in 2008, and he is now part of the Gujarat Titans (GT) squad.
9. Swapnil Singh: A lesser-known name, Swapnil was with Mumbai Indians in 2008 and continues to be active in domestic circuits.
It’s noteworthy that while these players were part of the 2008 season, their participation in every subsequent season varies. Some, like Kohli, have been ever-present, while others have had intermittent appearances.