Introduction
Cricket is more than just a sport; it’s a passion, a legacy, and for many, a way of life. Across continents and cultures, cricket evokes powerful emotions, fierce loyalties, and spirited debates. One of the most frequently asked and hotly debated questions among fans, analysts, and former players alike is, “Who is the best cricket player in the world?” It’s a question that sparks discussions that stretch across generations, formats, and personal biases. The complexity of this question lies in the sheer diversity of cricket Test matches, One-Day Internationals (ODIs), and the shortest format, T20s, all of which require different skill sets. The game has evolved, and so have the players, making the debate even more nuanced.
Choosing the best cricket player in the world isn’t as straightforward as comparing statistics or counting trophies. It’s about assessing influence, versatility, consistency, adaptability, and the ability to rise to the occasion under pressure. In this exploration, we’ll examine what it means to be the best, discuss the modern greats, reflect on historical legends, and ultimately strive to understand why this question remains so compelling.
The Definition Of “Best” In Modern Cricket
To determine the best cricket player in the world, one must first define what “best” actually means in the context of modern cricket. Is it about the sheer volume of runs or wickets? Or perhaps the ability to perform under pressure, lead a team, or dominate in all formats? Some might argue that adaptability across formats should be the deciding factor, while others place a higher value on longevity and the impact it has over time. Still, some look at a player’s influence on the game, how they’ve changed or shaped cricket with their unique style or unmatched excellence.
In the current era, where cricket is played in all corners of the world with varying pitches, climates, and crowds, the best player is one who can succeed in all conditions and across formats. It’s not enough to be a good Test player or a T20 specialist, the truly elite stand out in every version of the game.
Virat Kohli: The Modern Icon
When discussing the best player in the world, it’s impossible not to mention Virat Kohli. The Indian batsman has dominated world cricket for over a decade with his consistent run-scoring ability, intensity, and unmatched work ethic. Kohli’s statistics speak volumes, but it’s his presence and passion that truly set him apart. Whether he’s playing a gritty Test innings in England or blasting boundaries in a high-pressure T20 chase, Kohli has proven time and again that he thrives under pressure.
His adaptability is one of his biggest strengths. In Tests, he has scored centuries in Australia, South Africa, and England—places known for challenging batting conditions. In ODIs, he averages well over 50, a feat few can match over such a long period. His run-chases in ODIs are the stuff of legend, earning him the nickname “Chase Master.” Moreover, Kohli’s leadership brought a new aggression and energy to the Indian team, fostering a culture of fitness, discipline, and fearlessness.
Even during a lean patch in his career, Kohli never lost his status as one of the most feared and respected players in the game. His return to form and subsequent dominance in ICC tournaments and bilateral series reaffirm his place in the elite club of modern greats. Kohli is not just a cricketer—he’s a brand, a role model, and an inspiration to millions around the globe.
Babar Azam: The Graceful Maestro
Across the border in Pakistan, Babar Azam has risen as one of the most technically sound and stylish batsmen of the modern era. Often compared to Kohli, Babar’s elegance, timing, and composure have made him a standout performer. As of now, he is the only batsman to be ranked in the top five across all formats, a rare and commendable achievement.
What makes Babar special is his calm demeanor and classical technique, especially in a time when explosive T20 hitting tends to overshadow traditional cricketing skills. He has consistently been Pakistan’s top scorer and has carried the batting lineup during challenging series. In ODIs and T20s, he’s a model of consistency, and in Tests, he has proven his ability to play long innings under pressure.
Babar’s leadership has also come under the spotlight. Leading Pakistan in a cricket-crazed country with high expectations is no easy feat. While he may not yet have the legacy of a Kohli or the flamboyance of a de Villiers, Babar’s consistency, growth, and grace at the crease make him a serious contender in any “best player” discussion.
Steve Smith: The Test Genius
If we narrow the discussion to the red-ball format, Steve Smith of Australia undoubtedly comes into the picture. His unorthodox technique may raise eyebrows, but there’s no denying his effectiveness. Smith’s batting average in Test cricket has consistently been among the highest of his era, rivaling even the greats like Sachin Tendulkar and Ricky Ponting.
Smith is known for his hunger for runs, especially in Ashes contests, where he has repeatedly tormented English bowlers with monumental innings. His ability to read the game, adjust mid-innings, and grind bowlers down is a rare gift in today’s cricket. While he may not be as impactful in the shorter formats as Kohli or Babar, his dominance in Test cricket alone makes him a heavyweight in this debate.
Smith’s comeback after a one-year suspension for the ball-tampering scandal showed his mental toughness and resilience. Not only did he return to the team, but he did so with match-winning performances that reestablished him as one of the best in the world. In the purest form of the game, Smith is a master craftsman.
Ben Stokes: The Ultimate Game-Changer
No discussion of modern cricket greats is complete without Ben Stokes, the English all-rounder whose name is now synonymous with impact. Whether it’s a crucial wicket, a gravity-defying catch, or an unforgettable innings, Stokes has a knack for producing magic when it matters most.
His performance in the 2019 World Cup final is etched into cricketing folklore. The way he anchored the chase, kept his nerve in the Super Over, and dragged England to their first World Cup win is the stuff of legends. But it wasn’t just a one-off moment. Later that summer, his heroic 135* at Headingley in the Ashes added another unforgettable chapter to his story.
What separates Stokes from others is his multi-dimensional skill set. He is not just a powerful batsman; he’s also a fierce competitor with the ball and an outstanding fielder. His ability to turn a game single-handedly makes him one of the most valuable players in world cricket today. While he may not consistently top the stats charts, his influence and match-winning ability are second to none.
Kane Williamson: The Gentleman Genius
Kane Williamson might not have the loudest fanfare or the flashiest highlights, but his class, composure, and cricketing intellect make him a strong contender in any “best player” discussion. The New Zealand captain has been a pillar of consistency and grace, with a technique that’s admired around the world.
Williamson has led New Zealand to great heights, including a World Test Championship victory and two World Cup finals. What stands out about him is his humility and calmness under pressure. He’s the kind of player who lets his bat do the talking. In all formats, he is known for constructing innings with intelligence and timing, rarely looking rushed or uncomfortable.
His ability to thrive in challenging conditions, play spin in the subcontinent, and pace his innings with precision shows his mastery over the game. Williamson is proof that you don’t have to be flamboyant to be effective. In an era dominated by power-hitters and aggressive play, his classical style is a refreshing contrast.
The T20 Titans: Suryakumar Yadav And Jos Buttler
In the shortest format of the game, the names that frequently come up are Suryakumar Yadav and Jos Buttler. Both of them have revolutionized T20 batting with their innovation, aggression, and adaptability.
Suryakumar Yadav, in particular, has taken T20 cricket by storm with his 360-degree batting. His ability to find gaps, play audacious shots, and maintain a high strike rate even against top-quality bowling makes him a standout performer. His consistency in T20 Internationals and the IPL has elevated him to a world-class level in a very short span.
Jos Buttler, on the other hand, has long been a dominant force in T20 cricket. Whether it’s for England or his franchise teams, Buttler’s explosive batting, cool head, and tactical acumen have made him one of the best white-ball players of his generation. As a wicketkeeper-batsman, he brings added value and is known for his big-game temperament.
Legends Of The Past: A Benchmark For Greatness
While the focus is often on current players, no conversation about the “best” is complete without acknowledging the legends who shaped the game. Sachin Tendulkar’s records, Brian Lara’s flair, Muttiah Muralitharan’s spin wizardry, and Jacques Kallis’ all-round excellence continue to serve as benchmarks for aspiring cricketers.
Tendulkar, in particular, is often referred to as the “God of Cricket” due to his unbelievable records and two-decade-long career. His 100 international centuries and ability to carry the hopes of a billion people remain unmatched. Even now, players like Kohli and Babar are compared to him, which speaks volumes about his legacy.
Similarly, players such as AB de Villiers, Kumar Sangakkara, Ricky Ponting, and MS Dhoni have all left behind legacies that continue to influence the game to this day. Their contributions serve as reminders that greatness is not just about statistics, but also about impact, influence, and inspiration.
Conclusion
So, who is the best cricket player in the world? The answer is as diverse and multifaceted as the game itself. It depends on the format, the era, and the individual’s criteria for greatness. Virat Kohli stands tall with his unmatched consistency and passion. Babar Azam continues to impress with his elegance and reliability. Steve Smith remains a Test colossus. Ben Stokes brings unmatched impact. Kane Williamson exudes calm brilliance. In T20s, Suryakumar Yadav and Jos Buttler shine with their innovative and powerful batting.
The beauty of this debate lies in its subjectivity. Each fan sees greatness through a different lens, shaped by personal experiences, national pride, and cricketing philosophy. What is clear, however, is that cricket continues to be blessed with an abundance of talent, and the game is richer for it.
The best cricket player in the world? There may never be a definitive answer and that’s what keeps the game so endlessly fascinating.