Cricket is a game of gentleman, but the needless aggression and sledging on the field have downgraded the essence of the game. Almost every other cricketer in today’s generation is filled with rage that’s got nothing to do with the game. Patience and tolerance are quickly vanishing from the game. However, a few cricketers have upheld the gentlemanship of cricket with their fair plays and an amiable attitude in the middle. These nice guys of cricket have shouldered the responsibility of maintaining the high standards of the game. Without them, the cricketing world might not have witnessed the scenes of pure kindness and self-sacrifice.
Here are the 10 nice guys of cricket:
1- Sachin Tendulkar
The legend of the game is remembered for his on-field etiquette along with his grandeur record. He was loved by fans and cricketers alike. Sachin had created a reputation that exceeded any other cricketer during his generation. Tendulkar’s selfless decision of walking back to the dugout when he was out without waiting for the umpire’s decision has inspired the cricketer to play like gentlemen.
2- Rahul Dravid
Another Indian legend has an aura that is revered by all his teammates, followers and opponents. There were only one or two instances on the cricketing field when Rahul Dravid showed his anger. He is remembered as a professional who minded his business and helped whoever asked for it. Many young cricketers who developed under his wing at NCA have called him their role model.
3- Pat Cummins
Pat Cummins, the current Australian captain of the Test team, completely differs from his predecessor skippers of the Kangaroos. Cummins is a lively character who refrains from sledging and anything underhanded. His stint in the IPL with Kolkata Knight Riders has brought out his kind and funny nature. He contributed a hefty sum to India’s covid relief fund during the pandemic.
4- AB De Villiers
Ask any of the youngsters who is their favourite cricketer? They will most likely reply with AB De Villiers. The South-African legend let his bat do the talking throughout his career. He became a phenomenon in India for his kind personality and 360-degree strokeplay. He is perhaps the most-loved cricketer worldwide of this generation.
5- Kane Williamson
The Kiwi skipper is the epitome of calmness in world cricket. Former New Zealand captain Brendon McCullum says that he has never seen a cooler cricketer than Kane Williamson in his career. Williamson has never been involved in any controversy throughout his elusive career.
6- Adam Gilchrist
Perhaps the only player from the ruthless Australian team that showed compassion and empathy. His on-field nature was highly contagious, and the opponents found him the only likeable cricketer in the Australian squad. During that era, he stayed away from sledging and taunting adopted by the Kangaroos.
7- Mohammed Rizwan
The current opener for Pakistan in shorter formats of the game, Mohammed Rizwan is a quiet cricketer who does not interfere with anyone and believes in doing his job for the team. he has a likeable personality that is adored by the Pakistani fans.
8- Jos Buttler
The wicketkeeper-batsman from England is a true gentleman of the game. His recent gesture of removing his orange cap in an IPL game when Hardik Pandya surpassed him as the leading run-getter won the hearts of the cricketing fraternity. He is a gem of world cricket.
9- Jonty Rhodes
The fierce point guard from South Africa has a mellow personality that wins everyone over. Rhodes has gained a lot of popularity through his stint as a fielding coach in IPL. He is a legend of the game whom the opponents admired.
10- Brendon McCullum
Last but not least on the list of nice guys in cricket is the current head coach of Kolkata Knight Riders, Brendon McCullum. The former Kiwi skipper has played cricket worldwide, and no matter where he went, he was praised for his dedication and determination for the game of cricket.
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