Cricket is a sport that has captured the hearts and minds of people around the world. It is a game that is played with a bat and a ball, and is known for its long history, technical skill, and intense competition. Over the years, there have been many great cricketers who have made their mark on the game. From legends of the various era’s, we have compiled a list of the 20 best cricketers in the world of all time.
1) Sir Don Bradman – Australia
Sir Don Bradman is widely regarded as the greatest cricketer of all time, and for good reason. His statistics speak for themselves. Bradman’s Test average of 99.94 is a record that has stood for over 70 years, and it is unlikely to be broken any time soon. In fact, no other player in history has come close to this remarkable achievement.
During his illustrious career, Bradman scored a staggering 6,996 runs in just 52 Test matches, with 29 centuries and 13 half-centuries to his name. He was the backbone of the Australian team during the 1930s and 40s and played a crucial role in their success during this period. Bradman’s batting technique was flawless, and he was known for his impeccable timing and footwork. He had a unique style that allowed him to score runs with ease, and his ability to read the game was unparalleled.
Bradman’s career was not without its challenges, though. He suffered a serious illness in 1934, which threatened to end his career prematurely. However, he made a remarkable recovery and went on to achieve even greater success. Despite his phenomenal success, Bradman was always humble and never forgot the importance of hard work and dedication. He was a true role model for aspiring cricketers and inspired generations of players to follow in his footsteps.
2) Sachin Tendulkar – India
Sachin Tendulkar is a name that needs no introduction in the world of cricket. He is widely regarded as one of the greatest batter of all time and has been a true icon of the game for over two decades. His list of achievements is simply staggering, and his impact on the sport is immeasurable. Tendulkar’s career spanned an incredible 24 years, during which he played 664 international matches and scored a total of 34,357 runs. He was a master of his craft and had a unique ability to adapt to any situation, whether it was against the best fast bowlers or the trickiest spinners.
One of Tendulkar’s most remarkable achievements is his record-breaking tally of 100 international centuries. This is a feat that no other cricketer has been able to achieve, and it is a testament to his incredible skill and consistency over the years. He is a true icon of the game and will always be remembered as one of the greatest cricketers to have ever played the sport.
Throughout his career, Tendulkar has been a true ambassador for the sport. He has always been a gentleman on and off the field, and his dedication to the game has inspired countless young cricketers around the world. But Tendulkar’s legacy goes beyond his impressive statistics and achievements. He was a true champion for his team and a leader on and off the field. He played a crucial role in India’s triumph in the 2011 World Cup, which was a historic moment for Indian cricket.
3) Sir Vivian Richards – West Indies
Sir Vivian Richards was the backbone of the West Indies team and was one of the greatest batter to have ever played the game and played a key role in the West Indies’ dominance during the 1970s and 1980s. He was a true champion of the sport and a role model for cricketers around the world. He was a true leader on the field and led by example. He played a crucial role in the West Indies’ success in the 1979 and 1983 World Cups and was a key member of the team that dominated Test cricket for over a decade.
Richards was known for his aggressive batting style and his ability to take on any bowler. He had a unique ability to read the game and was always a step ahead of his opponents. He scored a total of 8,540 runs in Test cricket at an impressive average of 50.23. He scored 24 centuries and 45 half-centuries in his career, and his impact on West Indian cricket cannot be overstated.
In addition to his batting prowess, Richards was also an exceptional fielder. He was known for his agility and athleticism on the field and took some of the most remarkable catches in the history of the game. Richards was more than just a cricketer, though. He was a true ambassador for the sport and a source of inspiration for millions of cricket fans around the world. His dedication, passion, and sportsmanship set a benchmark for future generations of cricketers to follow. He will always be remembered as one of the greatest cricketers to have ever played the game.
4) Sir Gary Sobers – West Indies
Sir Gary Sobers was one of the most versatile cricketers of all time. He was a true all-rounder, and his ability to bat, bowl, and field at the highest level made him one of the most versatile cricketers of all time. Sobers was a left-handed batter who was known for his elegant strokeplay and his ability to score runs at a brisk pace. He scored a total of 8,032 runs in Test cricket, including 26 centuries and 30 half-centuries. His highest score in Test cricket was an unbeaten 365, which was a world record at the time.
But Sobers was not just a batter. He was also an excellent left-arm spinner who could turn the ball both ways. He took a total of 235 wickets in Test cricket, and his bowling average of 34.03 is a testament to his skill and consistency. In addition to his batting and bowling skills, Sobers was also an exceptional fielder. He had a safe pair of hands and took some of the most remarkable catches in the history of the game.
Sobers’ impact on West Indian cricket cannot be overstated. He played a key role in the team’s dominance during the 1960s and 1970s and was a true champion of the sport. He was a leader on and off the field and set a benchmark for future generations of cricketers to follow. Sobers’ legacy goes beyond his impressive statistics and achievements. He will always be remembered as one of the most iconic cricketers of all time.
5) Shane Warne – Australia
Shane Warne is a name that strikes fear in the hearts of many batters around the world. He is widely regarded as one of the greatest spin bowlers to have ever played the game, and his statistics speak for themselves. Warne took a total of 708 Test wickets, which is the second-highest in the history of the game. He was a master of deception and had an uncanny ability to spin the ball both ways. His ability to bowl a perfect leg-break or a googly made him a nightmare for even the best batters in the world.
But Warne was not just a bowler. He was also an excellent fielder and a useful lower-order batsman. He scored a total of 3,154 runs in Test cricket, including 12 half-centuries. Warne played a crucial role in Australia’s dominance in the late 90s and early 2000s. He was part of the legendary Australian team that won three consecutive World Cups and dominated Test cricket for over a decade.
His performances in the 2005 Ashes series against England, where he took 40 wickets, are considered to be some of the best in the history of the sport. He revolutionized the art of spin bowling and inspired a generation of young cricketers to take up the craft. His charisma and personality made him a fan favorite, and he remains one of the most popular cricketers of all time.
6) Wasim Akram – Pakistan
Wasim Akram is one of the most iconic left-arm fast bowlers to have ever graced the cricket field. He is widely regarded as one of the greatest bowlers in the history of the game, and his record speaks for itself. Akram was a master of swing bowling, and his ability to move the ball both ways at high speeds made him a nightmare for even the best batters in the world. He had a smooth and rhythmic run-up, which made his action look effortless, but his deliveries were anything but easy to face.
In his illustrious career, Akram took a total of 414 Test wickets, which is the highest for any left-arm fast bowler. He also took 502 wickets in ODI cricket, which is the second-highest in the history of the game. His ability to take wickets in all conditions and on all surfaces made him a valuable asset to the Pakistani team. Akram was a key player in Pakistan’s World Cup-winning team in 1992. His performances in the tournament were exceptional, and he played a crucial role in helping Pakistan lift the trophy.
Apart from his bowling skills, Akram was also a handy lower-order batter and a brilliant fielder. He scored over 3,000 runs in Test cricket, including three centuries, and took 96 catches in his career. Wasim Akram’s contribution to the game of cricket is immeasurable. His mastery of swing bowling and his ability to take wickets in all conditions make him one of the greatest bowlers of all time.
7) Imran Khan – Pakistan
Imran Khan was one of the greatest all-rounders of all time. He was not only a gifted cricketer but also a charismatic leader who inspired his team to great heights. Imran was a versatile player who excelled in all aspects of the game. As a fast bowler, Imran was feared by even the best batters in the world. His pace, accuracy, and ability to swing the ball made him a formidable opponent. He took 362 Test wickets and 182 ODI wickets in his career, which are impressive numbers for any bowler.
Imran was also a brilliant batter who could turn a match on its head with his aggressive stroke play. He scored over 3,000 runs in Test cricket, including six centuries and 18 half-centuries. He also scored over 3,000 runs in ODI cricket, including a century and 19 half-centuries. However, it was Imran’s leadership skills that truly set him apart from his contemporaries. He was a natural leader who had the ability to motivate and inspire his team to perform at their best.
He led Pakistan to their first-ever World Cup win in 1992, which remains one of the most significant achievements in the history of Pakistani cricket. After retiring from cricket, Imran became a politician and served as the Prime Minister of Pakistan from 2018 to 2021. He remains a beloved figure in Pakistan and is widely respected for his contributions both on and off the cricket field.
8) Jacques Kallis – South Africa
Jacques Kallis was a formidable cricketer and is widely regarded as one of the greatest all-rounders to have played the game. He was a complete package, who excelled in all aspects of the game – batting, bowling, and fielding. He was a rock-solid middle-order batsman, a crafty seam bowler, and an agile fielder, making him a valuable asset to the South African cricket team.
Kallis had an illustrious career, scoring over 13,000 runs in Test cricket at an average of 55.37. He scored 45 Test centuries and 58 half-centuries, and his highest Test score was an unbeaten 224. He was equally successful in the shorter format of the game, scoring over 11,000 runs in ODIs, including 17 centuries and 86 half-centuries.
Kallis was also a brilliant seam bowler, capable of swinging the ball both ways, and his nagging line and length made him a tough bowler to face. He took 292 Test wickets and 273 ODI wickets, a testament to his all-round abilities. Kallis was a lynchpin of the South African cricket team during his career, and he played a vital role in their success. He was instrumental in helping South Africa reach the semifinals of the 1999 and 2007 World Cups, and he played a key role in South Africa’s Test series wins over Australia and England.
9) Rahul Dravid – India
Rahul Dravid, popularly known as “The Wall,” was one of India’s greatest cricketers. He was a solid and dependable batsman who earned the respect and admiration of cricket fans worldwide for his technical excellence and unwavering composure under pressure. Dravid is considered one of the greatest Test batsmen of all time and was an integral part of the Indian cricket team for over a decade.
Dravid made his Test debut for India in 1996 against England and went on to play 164 Test matches, scoring 13,288 runs at an average of 52.31, including 36 centuries and 63 half-centuries. He was equally successful in One-Day Internationals (ODIs), scoring 10,889 runs at an average of 39.16, including 12 centuries and 83 half-centuries.
Dravid was known for his technical proficiency, patience, and ability to grind out runs, making him the perfect anchor in the Indian batting line-up. He was also an excellent slip fielder, holding the record for the most number of catches (210) taken by a non-wicketkeeper in Test cricket. Dravid’s contribution to Indian cricket extends beyond his individual performances. Dravid’s impact on Indian cricket was recognized when he was inducted into the ICC Hall of Fame in 2018.
10) Kumar Sangakkara – Sri Lanka
Kumar Sangakkara is widely recognized as one of the finest wicket-keeper batter in the history of cricket. He was a prolific run-scorer and an astute leader who played a crucial role in the success of the Sri Lankan cricket team.
Sangakkara made his international debut for Sri Lanka in 2000 and went on to play 134 Tests, scoring 12,400 runs at an average of 57.40, including 38 centuries and 52 half-centuries. In One-Day Internationals (ODIs), he amassed 14,234 runs at an average of 41.98, including 25 centuries and 93 half-centuries.
Sangakkara’s batting prowess was complemented by his exceptional skills as a wicket-keeper. He holds the record for the most dismissals (1,062) by a wicket-keeper in international cricket and was renowned for his agility, sharp reflexes, and safe hands behind the stumps. Apart from his individual achievements, Sangakkara was also a highly respected captain who led Sri Lanka with distinction in all formats of the game. He played a key role in guiding Sri Lanka to the final of the 2011 World Cup and the semi-final of the 2012 World Twenty20.
11) Ricky Ponting – Australia
Ricky Ponting is regarded as one of the greatest batsmen and captains in the history of cricket. He was a prolific run-scorer who dominated world cricket for over a decade and played a pivotal role in Australia’s success during the 2000s. Ponting made his international debut for Australia in 1995 and went on to play 168 Tests, scoring 13,378 runs at an average of 51.85, including 41 centuries and 62 half-centuries. In One-Day Internationals (ODIs), he amassed 13,704 runs at an average of 42.03, including 30 centuries and 82 half-centuries.
However, Ponting’s contribution to Australian cricket goes beyond his individual achievements. He was a natural leader who captained Australia in 77 Tests, winning 48 of them, and 230 ODIs, winning 165 of them. He led Australia to two World Cup victories in 2003 and 2007, cementing their status as one of the greatest teams in cricket history.
Ponting was renowned for his attacking stroke-play, impeccable timing, and ability to dominate opposition bowlers. He was equally comfortable against pace and spin and had an excellent technique against both. He was also a brilliant fielder who took some of the most stunning catches in cricket history. After retiring from international cricket in 2012, Ponting continued to be involved in the game as a coach and commentator. He is widely respected for his cricketing knowledge and his contributions to the game, and remains an icon for cricket lovers around the world.
12) Brian Lara – West Indies
Brian Lara is considered as one of the most talented batter in the history of cricket. He was known for his elegant batting style and was a treat to watch for cricket lovers all around the world. Lara scored 11,953 runs in Test cricket, including 34 centuries and 48 half-centuries. He also scored 10,405 runs in One Day Internationals (ODIs).
One of his most memorable innings was his world record-breaking 400 not out against England in 2004. Lara became the first and only player in the history of cricket to score 400 runs in a single innings, breaking the previous record of 380 set by Matthew Hayden. His innings helped West Indies win the Test match by an innings and 99 runs.
Lara also played a crucial role in the West Indies team during his career. He was the captain of the team and led them to their first Test series win in England since 1969. He also played a vital role in leading West Indies to the final of the 2004 ICC Champions Trophy. He is remembered as one of the most talented and entertaining batsmen to have ever played the game. His record-breaking innings will always be remembered as a highlight of his illustrious career.
13) Courtney Walsh – West Indies
Courtney Walsh is a former Jamaican cricketer and one of the greatest fast bowlers in the history of West Indian cricket. He was known for his remarkable consistency and accuracy, which helped him take a staggering 519 wickets in Test cricket. Walsh’s dedication to the game and his team-first mentality were admired by cricket fans and players alike. He was inducted into the ICC Cricket Hall of Fame in 2010, cementing his legacy as one of the all-time greats of the sport.
Walsh made his debut for the West Indies in 1984 and played until 2001, during which he formed a formidable bowling partnership with Curtly Ambrose. He was renowned for his ability to generate pace and bounce on any surface, and his mastery of the swinging ball was unparalleled. His performances were instrumental in helping the West Indies achieve their many victories in the 1980s and 90s.
In addition to his impressive Test record, Walsh also took 227 wickets in One Day Internationals (ODIs), making him one of the most successful bowlers in the format. He was also known for his leadership skills, having captained the West Indies in 22 Tests and 43 ODIs.
14) Glenn McGrath – Australia
Glenn McGrath was an Australian cricket legend and one of the most successful fast bowlers of all time. With his impeccable line and length, he terrorized batsmen from all over the world and was a crucial factor in Australia’s success in the 1990s and 2000s. In a career that spanned over 14 years, McGrath took a total of 563 Test wickets at an average of 21.64, making him one of the most consistent and lethal bowlers in history. He was also a force to be reckoned with in One Day Internationals (ODIs), taking 381 wickets in 250 games.
McGrath had an incredible record in Test cricket, with an economy rate of just 2.49 runs per over. He was known for his unerring accuracy, relentless line and length, and his ability to make the ball swing both ways. His ability to extract bounce from any pitch made him one of the most feared bowlers in the world. McGrath was also a fierce competitor and never shied away from a challenge.
McGrath played a vital role in Australia’s dominance of world cricket, helping them win three consecutive World Cups in 1999, 2003, and 2007. He was also a recipient of several prestigious awards, including the Wisden Cricketer of the Year in 1998 and the Australian Test Player of the Year in 2000. McGrath’s career was marked by several outstanding performances, including his 8 for 24 against Pakistan in 2004, which remains one of the best bowling figures in Test cricket. His record in the Ashes was also impressive, taking 157 wickets in 30 matches against England.
15) Muttiah Muralitharan – Sri Lanka
Muttiah Muralitharan is widely regarded as the greatest spinner to have ever played the game of cricket. He was born in Sri Lanka in 1972 and made his international debut in 1992. Muralitharan was a right-arm off-spinner who bowled with an unorthodox action that confused many batters.
Muralitharan played in 133 Test matches for Sri Lanka, taking a record-breaking 800 wickets at an average of 22.72. He also played in 350 One Day Internationals, taking 534 wickets at an average of 23.08. Muralitharan was a crucial member of the Sri Lankan cricket team that won the World Cup in 1996. He was also a master of deception, often disguising his variations to keep the batsmen guessing. Muralitharan’s ‘doosra’, a delivery that spun away from the right-handed batsmen, was his most potent weapon.
Muralitharan’s career was not without controversy, however. He was called for throwing early in his career, and his action was scrutinized for many years. Despite this, he continued to take wickets and became one of the most respected cricketers in the world. Muralitharan retired from international cricket in 2011, but his legacy lives on. His record of 800 Test wickets is unlikely to be broken, and he will forever be remembered as one of the greatest cricketers to have ever played the game.
16) Brendon McCullum – New Zealand
Brendon McCullum was an aggressive opening batsman and a successful captain for the New Zealand cricket team. He played 101 Tests, 260 One Day Internationals (ODIs), and 71 Twenty20 Internationals (T20Is) for his country. He is regarded as one of the greatest batsmen and captains in New Zealand’s cricketing history.
McCullum was known for his aggressive style of batting and his ability to take on any bowler. He scored over 6,000 runs in Test cricket and more than 6,000 runs in ODI cricket, making him one of the most successful batsmen for New Zealand. He was particularly known for his fast scoring rates, and his innings often set the tempo for the rest of the New Zealand batting line-up.
McCullum was also an outstanding captain and led New Zealand to the final of the 2015 World Cup, which they lost to Australia. He was instrumental in transforming the team into a competitive unit and instilling a never-say-die attitude. He also played a crucial role in developing a number of talented cricketers who went on to become key players for the New Zealand team.
17) Allan Border – Australia
Allan Border, a former Australian cricketer, was a crucial figure in the Australian cricket team during their rebuilding phase in the 1980s. He was a reliable batsman who could be relied upon to score runs consistently, and his leadership skills were equally impressive.
Border scored over 11,000 runs in Test cricket, with 27 centuries and 63 half-centuries to his name. He was the first player to cross the 10,000-run mark in Test cricket and held the record for the most runs in Test cricket until it was surpassed by Brian Lara in 2005.
Border’s greatest achievement as captain came in 1987 when he led Australia to their first-ever World Cup victory. He played a vital role in the team’s success, scoring 447 runs in the tournament, including a match-winning 70 not out in the final against England. Border’s captaincy was marked by his tenacity, grit, and determination, which was reflected in his approach to the game.
18) Kapil Dev – India
Kapil Dev was a legendary cricketer from India who made a significant impact in the sport. He was a fast bowling all-rounder, which means he could bowl fast and also contribute significantly to the team’s batting and fielding performances.
Kapil Dev’s most remarkable moment in his career was his captaincy of the Indian cricket team that won the 1983 Cricket World Cup. He led his team to a stunning victory over the mighty West Indies in the final match.
Kapil Dev was also a prolific batsman, scoring over 5,000 runs in Test cricket at an average of 31.05. He also took 434 wickets, making him one of the best all-rounders of his time. He was a vital cog in the Indian team during the 1980s and 1990s and is still considered one of India’s greatest cricketers.
19) Sunil Gavaskar – India
Sunil Gavaskar, also known as “Sunny” or “Little Master,” is widely regarded as one of the greatest opening batsmen in the history of cricket. He made his debut for the Indian cricket team in 1971 and played for over 16 years, amassing a staggering 10,122 runs in Test cricket at an average of 51.12.
Gavaskar was known for his impeccable technique and ability to bat for long periods of time. He was the first player to score 10,000 Test runs and held the record for the most runs in Test cricket until it was broken by Allan Border in 1993. He also scored 34 centuries in Test cricket, which was a world record at the time.
Gavaskar played a crucial role in India’s victory in the 1983 World Cup, where he scored two centuries and three half-centuries. He was also part of the Indian team that won the 1971 Test series against the West Indies, where he scored a crucial 124 in the final match of the series.
20) Steve Waugh – Australia
Steve Waugh, the former Australian cricket captain, was a master of determination and mental toughness. He was a middle-order batsman who scored over 10,000 runs in Test cricket with an average of 51.06. He was known for his ability to score runs under pressure and his skill at rotating the strike.
In addition to his batting prowess, Waugh was also an outstanding leader, and his captaincy is regarded as one of the best in the history of the game. He led Australia to victory in the 1999 and 2003 World Cups and to a record 16 consecutive Test wins between 1999 and 2001, a feat that earned him the nickname “the conqueror”.
Waugh was also a brilliant fielder, known for his athleticism and his ability to take spectacular catches. He retired from international cricket in 2004 as one of the most successful captains and batsmen in the history of the game.
In conclusion, these are the 20 best cricketers in the world of all time. Each of these players has left a lasting legacy on the game and has inspired generations of cricketers. They have shown what it takes to be the best, with their technical skill, mental toughness, and unwavering dedication to the game. It is their excellence that has made cricket the sport that it is today, and their legacy will continue to inspire future generations of cricketers.
