The game of cricket has come a long way since its inception. Gone are the days of one or two technically sound players ruling the roost over others. Fitness levels have touched the skies, and all players are extremely technical in their approach. However some players still manage to stand out. Here we look at some of them.
1. Virat Kohli (India):
Virat is rightly referred to as King Kohli. Ever since his debut he has been smashing bowlers left, right and center. The Indian captain is one of the hardest workers in the game. His shots are as perfect as they could get. He rarely plays a bad shot. Though he can play all shots smoothly his cover drive is his specialty, which is a joy to watch.
2. Joe Root (England):
The England captain is the perfect example of a modern test player. His ability to switch gears is exemplary. His stance gives him the ability to play almost all deliveries. His back foot shots are arguably the best in the world.
3. Steve Smith (Australia):
After a rough patch, on and off the field, Smith came back strong by blasting 2 centuries and a double century in the ashes. He has a strange batting stance, having a big gap between both feet and often shuffling and walking across the line. However, his odd stance has proven successful as plays all types of shot with ease including unconventional ones.
4. Shai Hope (West Indies):
At just 26, Hope is touted to be one of the best test batsmen of this generation. His poignant style resembles Rahul Dravid a bit, so he is called the “wall of windies”. He can hold up an innings for long and also get runs on board.
5. Babar Azam (Pakistan):
Azam is simply the best Pakistani red ball player right now. His drives are so delicate that and sweet that one could literally hear the pure sound of the ball hitting the bat on TV. His straight drives and cover drives are treats for eyes.
6. Kane Williamson (New Zealand):
The Kiwi captain is the definition of Captain Cool in cricket right now, after MSD. His stats touch skies. His technique is simple. He plays as straight as possible, whilst covering his stumps with a watertight defence and playing the ball late.
7. Faf du Plessis (South Africa):
The Proteas captain is the oldest on this list. He has been proving is metal for years now. His intense batting style makes him a fan favourite. He keeps simple and hits his shots as smoothly as possible, while always rotating strikes.
8. Mushfiqur Rahim (Bangladesh):
Rahim has been starring for Bangladesh for several years. He is always their go to guy in clutch situations. Shots over extra cover are his USP; also his foot movement is one of the best in the game.
