Shining examples: The best New Zealand cricketers of all time

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New Zealand has an underrated history in the sport of cricket. Over the decades, the Kiwis have produced world-class talent who have shaped their national team. Players from the Black Caps have been influential in global cricket, but a certain few have stood out. 

Before diving into the Black Caps’ history, first identify what makes a good cricketer.

What makes a top cricketer?

Defining greatness in cricket goes beyond the statistics. A top cricketer is someone who consistently performs at the highest level, even under the most intense pressure possible. Here are the criteria you should be aware of when gauging New Zealand’s best cricketers:

The best candidates for New Zealand

Here are some of the cricketers from New Zealand that fit the criteria:

Richard Hadlee

Widely regarded as New Zealand’s greatest cricketer, Sir Richard Hadlee is one of the best fast bowlers in the history of cricket. He was the first bowler in Test history to claim 400 wickets, a milestone that cemented his legacy. 

He is known for accuracy, pace, and the ability to swing the ball in both ways. Hadlee was a menace against the world’s best batsmen in the 1970s and 1980s. He was one of the most consistent players for the Black Caps, as he could influence the matches through his bowling, but he was also a capable batsman. 

Hadlee turned matches with his quick runs. The well-rounded performances helped New Zealand rise to become a top competitive nation. The Kiwis started believing that New Zealand could compete with the giants of the sport, and they were proven right with their record with Hadlee. 

As he ended his career, he was knighted, as he has been the benchmark for excellence in New Zealand sport.

Martin Crowe

Remembered by many as one of New Zealand’s most elegant and technically gifted batsmen, Martin Crowe was a fantastic player. During his career, New Zealand often lacked depth in their batting order, but Crowe was always reliable. During his career, he scored over 5,000 runs in Test cricket and played many match-winning innings. 

Beyond his dominance over bowlers with both grace and precision, leadership was a big part of Crowe’s legacy. As a captain, he innovated some strategies for the Black Caps, especially in the one-day international (ODI) format. In 1985, Crowe was the Wisden Cricketer of the Year, a rare honour for a Kiwi player. 

Despite the injuries he suffered, Crowe had a strong influence as a batsman, captain, and commentator after his career. He left an enduring legacy in the world of cricket that most people won’t forget.

Kane Williamson

The modern embodiment of New Zealand cricket, Kane Williamson, is the best representative of 21st-century Kiwi cricket. As one of the calmest and most composed cricketers on the field, Williamson fits the bill as one of the best players in the country’s history.

He is the highest run-scorer in Test cricket, but he is effective across many formats. Williamson has been the anchor for Test innings to guide run chances in ODIs and T20s, which has made him one of the most versatile players in the 21st century. 

As the captain, New Zealand led the Black Caps to winning the World Test Championship in 2021. That was the country’s greatest achievement in its history in cricket. Williamson was a big part of that, as he contributes on the field and is also the loudest voice in the dressing room. 

Brendon McCullum

A transformative player, Brendon McCullum is known for a fearless attacking style. He redefined how the Black Caps approached the game, as he set the record for the fastest Test century, doing so with only 54 balls in 2016. McCullum is one of the most explosive batsmen in Black Caps history, which is influential for the country.

During his time as captain, he instilled an aggressive style with a positive mindset within the team. They reached the 2015 ICC Cricket World Cup final during his captaincy, which they did by being fearless, as McCullum encouraged them to keep fighting. 

The aggressive philosophy was a big part of their success, and McCullum was the catalyst for that through his leadership and his performances.

Daniel Vettori

Making his debut at only 18, Daniel Vettori amassed over 700 international wickets, which proved his skill and consistency. He was not only a bowler, as he was also a talented batsman. With his genuine skill as an all-rounder, he became such a top player.

He served as captain and was known for being a smart and calm player. He was admired for his professionalism and leadership, which helped him become a shining example for younger players. The long career made him iconic for the Black Caps, and a vital figure for the program for over a decade. 

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Five unforgettable final over finishes that shook cricket fans

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Careful planning, great players, and a bit of luck are all factors that determine the outcome of any matchup. One side will always have more of either element and end up dominating with a decisive lead. The fun starts when both sides have equal strengths, leading to an exciting clash where every over counts down to a thrilling finish. 

These are the matches that go down in history, where the winner is decided by a nail-biting final over finishes. Learn about five of the top stories cemented in history as some of the most unforgettable examples right here:

England vs Australia (2005 Ashes)

The second Test of the 2005 Ashes at Edgbaston produced one of the most dramatic finishes in cricket history. England had set Australia 282 to win, and the match came down to the final over on 6 August 2005. The crowd held its breath as Australia pushed for a narrow victory, needing just a few runs with only one wicket left. 

England’s Andrew Flintoff had already made his mark with both bat and ball, while Simon Jones and Steve Harmison also played vital roles earlier in the match. In the tense final moments, it was Michael Kasprowicz and Brett Lee who fought bravely for Australia, edging closer with each run. Kasprowicz battled bravely, nearly completing a famous chase. 

Steve Harmison trapped Kasprowicz with a short delivery that was caught by Geraint Jones. England won by two runs, one of the narrowest margins in Test history, a victory that evened the series and shifted momentum in what became one of cricket’s greatest contests.

India vs Pakistan (2007 ICC World Twenty20)

The final of the 2007 ICC World Twenty20 in Johannesburg on 24 September delivered a finish worthy of cricket’s fiercest rivalry. India set Pakistan 158 to win, but the contest boiled down to a nail-biting last over that stunned the packed stadium. India’s innings had been anchored by Gautam Gambhir, who struck 75, while Rohit Sharma provided a late flourish. 

Pakistan fought back with Misbah-ul-Haq at the crease, bringing the target down to just 13 runs needed off the final over. He hit a six off Joginder Sharma and looked set to finish the match. India claimed a five-run victory in one of the most tense finals ever played. 

It was the first ICC World Twenty20 title for India, remembered for its extraordinary climax and the rise of a new generation. Their victory led to a strong, dedicated following that laid the foundation for the country’s domestic cricket league, which is now an undisputed giant in the sport. 

​​Sri Lanka vs India (2014 ICC World Twenty20)

The 2014 ICC World Twenty20 final in Dhaka on 6 April ended with Sri Lanka finally lifting a long-awaited trophy. Chasing 131 to beat India, the match concluded with a calm but decisive finish in the final overs as Sri Lanka’s experienced campaigners sealed the win. 

India’s batting had been built on Virat Kohli’s 77, but the lack of late acceleration left Sri Lanka a reachable target. Lasith Malinga and Nuwan Kulasekara had earlier restricted India with the ball, ensuring the contest would remain balanced. Kumar Sangakkara led the chase in his final T20 international, partnering with Thisara Perera. 

Sangakkara finished unbeaten on 52, while Perera struck crucial blows to chase down the target in the 18th over. Sri Lanka triumphed by six wickets, finishing 134 for 4, ending a streak of four previous ICC final losses. 

England vs New Zealand (2019 Cricket World Cup)

The 2019 ICC Cricket World Cup final at Lord’s on 14 July had both teams tied twice, once in regular play and again in the super over. Ben Stokes led Team England, anchoring the innings with 84 not out under immense pressure. 

Jos Buttler also played a vital role, while Chris Woakes and Jofra Archer kept England in the game with the ball. New Zealand had Kane Williamson and Martin Guptill carry the weight of expectation, while Jimmy Neesham nearly won it for New Zealand in the super over. 

In the end, England were crowned champions based on the boundary count after both teams scored 15 in the super over, making it the national team’s first-ever World Cup triumph. The match is still regarded as the most dramatic one-day international in cricket history, not just for English and New Zealanders, but worldwide. 

Barbados Tridents vs Guyana Amazon Warriors (2019 CPL)

The 2019 Caribbean Premier League final at Brian Lara Academy on 12 October ended Guyana Amazon Warriors' unbeaten campaign. Barbados Tridents, who had been written off earlier in the tournament, produced a defiant finish to claim their second Caribbean Premier League (CPL) title.

The Tridents’ innings revolved around Jonathan Carter, who struck a rapid 50 not out from 26 balls. Ashley Nurse and Raymon Reifer provided support, while Jason Holder’s leadership shaped the bowling plan. For the Warriors, Brandon King’s 43 was the highlight, though the chase faltered against disciplined bowling from Reifer, Harry Gurney and Nurse.

Barbados Tridents posted 171/6 and then restricted Guyana Amazon Warriors to 144/9. It ended Guyana’s 11-match winning streak and marked their fifth loss in the CPL final.

Final over finishes: Anything can happen at the last second

Final overs are the hardest test of a cricketer’s skill and composure. Each delivery determines the result, shifts momentum, and ultimately decides the winner. These moments show the balance between clear decision-making and strength, where bowlers must defend narrow leads and batters push for difficult runs. 

Cricket is built on uncertainty, and no stage shows this more clearly than the last over. Every ball matters until the end, and no side is safe until the final delivery. From record chases to sudden losses, these finishes explain why the sport continues to attract strong attention worldwide. 

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Gold standard: The best bowlers in modern cricket history

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Since the 1990s, cricket has undergone a huge transformation due to the introduction of new play styles and the rise of some players. Amid that growth, bowlers have become the driving force for shaping matches through fiery pace or an unhittable spin. 

Batters often dominate the headlines, but the bowlers turn the game around on its head. Have a look at the gold standard of modern cricket through the many bowlers who could be among the greats.

What makes a great modern-day bowler?

In modern cricket, greatness cannot be defined by only one trait. A great bowler combines many traits and attributes to reach their ceiling. They leave a lasting mark on the game by exhibiting specific qualities. Here are some of them: 

Glenn McGrath (Australia)

Glenn McGrath was one of the best fast bowlers in the world, and he did not have to rely on sheer pace. He had an immaculate line and length, which made it hard to hit his bowls. He also practised with solid discipline, as he could extract all kinds of movement with the ball on any surface. He was always accurate, making the batters’ lives harder.

Australia was dominant in the late 1990s and early 2000s, cementing itself as a cornerstone. He was a big part of the Test side’s success, getting 563 Test wickets and 381 ODI scalps as an example of how he did during his time with the national team. 

In ICC tournaments, McGrath loved playing under pressure. He finished as the all-time leading wicket-taker in men’s Cricket World Cups with 71 wickets. McGrath stood out with his consistency and impact on the biggest stages in cricket, making him one of the modern era’s greatest fast bowlers.

Dale Steyn (South Africa)

Dale Steyn is one of the best examples of raw pace combined with immense skill. The South African quick bowler was known for consistently bowling over 145 kilometres per hour. He swings the ball late to trouble even the best batters. The aggressive style and fiery personality made him one of the toughest fast bowlers of the modern era.

He was superb across all three formats, particularly in Test cricket. He was dominant in Tests, getting 439 wickets in only 93 Test matches. That made him one of the greatest ever bowlers in Test cricket. 

Steyn had a solid strike rate, as he placed himself alongside the greats statistically. Apart from the numbers, Steyn was unforgettable in challenging conditions, as he was a leader for South African cricket.

Steyn was a true game-changer who created a lasting legacy of high-level fast bowling. He was always a tough player to go against, as he made the batters’ lives harder for South Africa across many formats.

James Anderson (England)

Known as the ‘King of Swing’, James Anderson mastered the art of moving the ball both ways with surgical precision. He had strong control of seam and swing, which dismantled the top batting lineups around the world. He was superb whenever he played in England, as he was always comfortable standing out in his home country.

Anderson sustained his brilliance across different formats. However, he stood out in Test cricket, as he amassed over 700 wickets in the format. That is the most by any fast bowler in history, cementing his place as the linchpin for England’s attack for two decades.

The adaptability kept him relevant, as he continued to stand out in an evolving sport. He refined his techniques to remain effective against the younger batters. Anderson is more than a record-breaker; he is a symbol for England due to his resilience and excellence. His age was not an issue, as he mastered cricket as he matured.

Shane Warne (Australia)

Shane Warne was more than a bowler; he was a phenomenon who was known for his leg spin. He had an arsenal of variations with the flipper, slider, googly, and the ripping leg-break. Warne mesmerised batters and made spin bowling an attacking weapon again. 

He transcended mere numbers with his 708 Test wickets and countless match-winning spells. Warne inspired a generation of spinners, and that has made him one of the most charismatic and smartest players in modern cricket.

Muttiah Muralitharan (Sri Lanka)

Muttiah Muralitharan was a craftsman at work as the off-spinner for Sri Lanka. He rewrote the record books with 800 Test wickets, the most in history. He had a mastery of his ability to spin on many surfaces, as he changed the pace of his bowl for a long period. 

Muttiah carried Sri Lanka on his back for over a decade, which made him one of the most complete bowlers ever. He is the rightful example of a star player for a country. Sri Lankan cricket has been inconsistent since Muralitharan retired. They might have won the 2014 T20 World Cup without him, but they are not as consistent as they were with Muralitharan.

Those are the modern era’s best bowlers, and the position will continue to have new stars moving forward.

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England’s most significant cricket moments of the 21st century

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Throughout the 21st century, England have become one of the most prominent cricketing countries. With this rise, they have created some unforgettable moments across different formats. They have staged some of the most intense and iconic clashes in international cricket, including the Ashes and World Cup glory. 

Here are some of the defining highlights of modern English cricket:

The dramatic 2005 Ashes win

For many cricket fans, the 2005 Ashes is one of the greatest series of cricket ever. England had not beaten Australia in an Ashes contest since 1986-87, so getting some payback was long overdue. 

The Aussies had one of the most dominant teams in cricket history over those two decades, with names like Shane Warne, Glenn McGrath, Adam Gilchrist, and Ricky Ponting leading the way. That meant England had to overcome a tough team when they played in the 2005 Ashes.

This series began with Australia taking the first Test rather easily. However, England managed to roar back and win a close match at Edgbaston by only two runs. It is still one of the most discussed matches in cricket history due to its level of thrill and the close result.

It was a see-saw series between the two powerhouses at Old Trafford and Trent Bridge. In the decisive fifth Test, Kevin Pietersen’s 158 in the second innings secured a draw, clinching a 2-1 series win for England.

The first ICC trophy for England

During the 21st century, England were competitive against other countries. However, they did not have a major ICC trophy in the 2000s. That is why the 2010 ICC Men’s T20 World Cup was a massive success for the team when they won the tournament held in the West Indies. 

Spearheaded by Paul Collingwood, England had a mix of strong batting and amazing bowling. Kevin Pietersen was present again with his powerful stroke play, but he had awesome support from his teammates, including Craig Kieswetter with his powerful hitting and Graeme Swann’s talent.

The final was played against Australia, and England made sure not to lose to their rivals. They were chasing 148, which led to Kieswetter and Pietersen dismantling Australia’s bowlers. They secured a seven-wicket win with more than three overs to spare. They won their first major ICC title, signalling the start of a new era.

This victory set the tone for England, as they would win the ICC Cricket World Cup in 2019,  and they won the ICC T20 World Cup again in 2022. England are one of the best countries in the cricket world, with multiple trophies in the 21st century.

A magical 481 against Australia in 2018

For the Test side of the Ashes, 2005 would be most people’s favourite moment. For white-ball cricket, the 2018 ODI series could be considered the peak. England broke the world record for the highest ODI total, getting 481/6 against Australia at Trent Bridge.

The Three Lions demolished Australia during that June 2018 day, as Jonny Bairstow and Alex Hales were the stars of the show. Australia’s bowlers did their best, but England were in their best form on that day. Adil Rashid and Eoin Morgan chipped in with some fiery batting to end the match and surprise the rest of the cricket world.

In addition to their batting dominance, England also had Moeen Ali and Rashid performing well with their bowling. This was a fearless England squad, and under Morgan’s leadership, they continued their aggressive and relentless style of playing cricket.

Stokes’ heroics in the 2019 Ashes

Ben Stokes has become one of the most recognisable cricket players in the world. When it comes to English cricket, he is one of the first names mentioned as a contributor. His best moments for the England team were during the 2019 Ashes, as England were trying to chase an improbable 359 in the Third Test.

Stokes had an innings for the ages, as he started cautiously but kept hunting. He kept improving throughout his stint, unleashing a counterattack to drag England from the jaws of defeat to a one-wicket victory.

The reaction in the stadium and on commentary cemented how significant this moment was. Even the most neutral fans were shocked by what happened, and that is due to Stokes’ stellar performance. Of course, the Aussies would win the urn at the end of the series, but people mostly remember 2019’s Ashes due to Stokes’ performance.

The 2019 World Cup victory against New Zealand

England have always been involved in dramatic matches, but the 2019 ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup final against New Zealand is an important one for the sport. After their struggles in the 2015 World Cup, England came into this matchup as the favourites.

Unfortunately, this was not a cakewalk for the English team, as New Zealand posted 241/8. It was a tough yet reachable target that motivated England. Stokes anchored the innings for his team, but the game went to a Super Over.

Jofra Archer had to bowl the most important over of his life, and yet New Zealand matched England’s 15. It was another dramatic moment, but England won on the boundary countback rule, becoming the ODI world champions for the first time. This cemented their place among the best teams in the ODI format, as they are often contenders.

England will continue to have these moments

From the glory of the 2005 Ashes to their success in the World Cup tournaments, England will continue to succeed in the 21st century. They might have some dark months or even years, but they have the infrastructure to become one of the brightest cricketing countries alongside the likes of Australia, India, and the West Indies.

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Why Newcastle United and Man United are interested in Šeško

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After months of being linked to Arsenal, Benjamin Šeško was passed over by the Gunners. The North London club opted to sign Viktor Gyökeres instead, mostly due to the outstanding valuation that RB Leipzig was putting on the 22-year-old Slovenian striker.

It would have been a golden opportunity for Šeško to join one of the best clubs in Europe. Now, he will be looking to join other English clubs, mainly Newcastle United and Manchester United.

Newcastle United want to get the Isak replacement

In the 2025 summer transfer window, Newcastle United have struggled to get their business going. That worsened when Alexander Isak made his stance known, as he wants to join Liverpool on a transfer. He is their star striker and best player, so losing him would be a massive loss for the club. 

They want to keep the Swedish striker, but they also know this is the right time to cash in on their star player. Newcastle has set the transfer price at £150 million. If Liverpool cannot match that valuation, they will struggle with signing him as their new striker. However, that can change and decrease slightly if they acquire another striker for the squad.

That is where Šeško comes in, as he could be the ideal replacement for Isak. He does not have the most eye-popping numbers, but he has all the talent and physical tools to become the new star striker for the Magpies.

Man United wants to get the next great striker

The other club interested in getting Šeško is Manchester United. This is another striker signing they could make after their experiments with Rasmus Højlund and Joshua Zirkzee have failed. 

Šeško is talented, so Manchester United are willing to take the gamble. They might not have Champions League football in the 2025-26 season, but they want a star player like Šeško to lead the line for them as a striker to match up with other new transfers like Matheus Cunha and Bryan Mbeumo.

If Man United can pull this off, the pressure is on, as they need him to become their next great striker. They have struggled to maximise their players’ talents, so this can be a double-edged sword.

Šeško could become one of the world’s best strikers

With his potential as a 22-year-old, Šeško could become a top player. He has the ball-striking power, but he can also link up well with his teammates, as he has great football IQ. His jumping ability also makes him one of the best headers of the ball. 

It will be a massive signing for either Newcastle or Man United, as Šeško has the potential. This is a worthwhile gamble for either side’s future.

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Italy shocks Europe: Your guide to their T20 cricket rise

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This year, Italy has qualified for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026. Next summer, they’ll be playing against top teams like India and Sri Lanka, but don’t expect them just to wave 'ciao'. Be ready to see a fierce and well‑prepared side. Italy’s captain, Joe Burns, says the qualification feels surreal. It’s a story of guts, hard work, and careful planning.

Planning and preparation: The road to success

You might wonder how Italy pulled off this upset. It wasn’t luck, it was careful planning. Burns told ICC Digital that they trained extensively: a week in Rome, followed by a week in the UK. On day one back in Rome, he told the team: 'I don’t care if we’re playing Luxembourg in the first Sub-Regional game or India in a World Cup Final. I just want us to be the most prepared team in world cricket'.

With this, they looked at every detail: the pitch, the format, the opponents. By the time they took the field, they had run through every possible scenario. Nothing surprised them. They just did what they had practised.

Dominating in Voorburg

At the European Regional Final in Voorburg, Italy, they will not play as underdogs but as game leaders. They hit all the right notes: strong batting, clever bowling, and sharp fielding.

In one big match, they beat Scotland decisively, winning by 12 runs after putting up a solid score of 167. Burns says they even studied how the pitch would behave and tailored their plans to suit that. Their strategy at work was on autopilot, as they knew exactly how they had prepared.

Adapting on the day

Burns explains they needed to play smart in a match that allowed only narrow losses. Against the Dutch, Italy fell behind early, but you would have seen how they shifted gear. They recovered, set a decent score of 133, and then relied on their spinners.

Burns trusted Crishan Kalugamage and Ben Manenti to lock things down. You watched them bowl with patience and precision, slowing the game and forcing mistakes. The team called this 'damage control', and it worked.

A leader with heritage

Burns had a successful Test career with Australia and qualifies to play for Italy thanks to his family ties. In early 2024, before Sub‑Regional qualifying began, he set a clear goal: he wanted Italy’s success to inspire players with Italian roots around the world. His shirt number, 85, honours his late brother Dominic.

He believes that fans can now see a team that came together because of shared stories. In Rome, they spent time talking about culture, family sacrifices, and heritage. Some players and their ancestors moved to or from Italy, which strengthened the squad’s bond.

Burns says this goal goes beyond the 11 players on the field. They want a legacy, more funding, more facilities, and new generations who choose cricket in Italy.

Grassroots and growth

Cricket is growing fast in Italy. With the sport now linked to the Olympics, the Italian National Olympic Committee is helping. You will soon see better training grounds, maybe even turf wickets, for local clubs.

There are over 100 clubs in Italy now. Some players come from those clubs and now represent the national side. But Italy’s coach, Kevin O’Brien, admits they’ve also used player‑eligibility rules. You’ll see names like Emilio Gay, Thomas Draca, Grant Stewart, and brothers Ben and Harry Manenti boosting the squad.

Wayne Madsen will rejoin soon, too. These players brought skills and experience, but you should focus on the coaching group, who bring decades of Associate‑level wisdom. They have former players from Canada, Scotland, Ireland, and Australia involved.

The coaching team

Former Canada international John Davidson is the head coach. Former Scotland all‑rounder Dougie Brown and Ireland’s Kevin O’Brien assist.

O’Brien joined in 2022 after retiring as a player. He watched the team grow, so he saw more than just cricket skills improving. He saw attitude, fitness, cricket smarts, and hunger improve, too. He compares their journey to Ireland’s win over Pakistan in the 2007 World Cup. At that time, he was playing. He sees the same spark in Italy now.

Learning from associates

Burns stresses how hard Associate‑level teams have to work. You don’t just play matches, you play for funding, for survival. That pressure builds tough characters. The coaches had walked this path themselves. So they’re not just coaches, they’re guides who know the road.

Eyes on the 2026 World Cup

Now that Italy has qualified, you should expect a new challenge. Burns says he’d love to face India, Australia, and England, the best. He wants Italy to go in at the deep end. That’s what this team wants: no easy matches, no safe plays.

For fans, the hope is this: Italy’s success will bring Italians together worldwide. Some live in Italy, others have Italian roots and live far away. Burns wants all of them to feel proud and connected.

What you should know going forward

Italy’s path to the 2026 ICC T20 World Cup is a major step for their cricket journey. For the first time, they earned a spot in the men’s tournament, showing how far a team can go with the right mix of planning, training, and pride. Built on strong roots and a shared goal, the squad brought together players from many backgrounds. Now, they face bigger tests ahead, but their story is already one that could spark a new wave of hope, much like Ireland did in 2007.

The journey is just beginning

Italy’s cricket story is more than a surprise win. It’s a blueprint for growth: smart tactics, hard work, unity, and heritage. If you follow them into the 2026 World Cup, expect to see a team that’s not just participating, they’re competing.

Italy wants more than wins; they want to change how people in Italy and Italians around the world see cricket. You may find yourself cheering them on, not just as underdogs, but as a team that earns respect through discipline, culture, and pride. Stay tuned, Italy is ready to show you what it can do on the world stage.

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Excitement builds for cricket at the 2025 SEA Games in Bangkok 

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The 33rd Southeast Asian Games will take place from 9 to 20 December 2025 in Thailand, across Bangkok, Chonburi, and Songkhla. One of the headline sports rejoining the program is cricket, organised jointly by the Asian Cricket Council (ACC) and the Cricket Association of Thailand.

The 2025 SEA Games cricket tournament will include both men’s and women’s divisions, with all matches hosted at the TerdThai Cricket Ground in Lat Krabang, Bangkok. Here are the participating teams:

Men’s Division
  • Cambodia
  • Indonesia
  • Malaysia
  • Philippines
  • Singapore
  • Thailand
Women’s Division
  • Cambodia
  • Indonesia
  • Malaysia
  • Philippines
  • Singapore
  • Thailand
  • Myanmar

Cricket's previous appearances at the SEA Games

Cricket is the world’s second most popular sport, yet it has only appeared twice at the SEA Games, first in 2017 in Malaysia and again in 2023 in Cambodia. Both events had wildly different structures, from the roster of participants to the formats featured.

Here’s an overview of the previous events:

The 29th edition of the SEA Games took place in Malaysia, featuring three events in the Twenty20 (T20) and 50 overs formats. It was split into three events: the Men’s T20, Men’s 50 Overs, and Women’s T20. 

Here were the results of the events:

Gold
  • Singapore - Men’s T20
  • Malaysia - Men’s 50 overs
  • Thailand - Women’s T20
Silver
  • Malaysia - Men’s T20
  • Singapore - Men’s 50 overs
  • Indonesia - Women’s T20
Bronze
  • Indonesia - Men’s T20
  • Thailand - Men’s 50 overs
  • Malaysia - Women’s T20
Total medals awarded3 gold, 3 silver, and 3 bronze (9 medals)

The 2023 SEA Games in Cambodia were much more eventful for cricket fans. They hosted 8 events, featuring men's and women’s divisions for each format, namely Six-a-side (6s), Ten-over (T10), T20, and 50 overs. 

Here are the medals they won:

MedalistMedals won and division
Cambodia
  • Gold - Men’s T10
  • Gold - Men’s T20
  • Gold - Men’s 50 overs
  • Silver - Men’s 6s
Thailand
  • Gold - Women’s T10
  • Gold - Women’s T20
  • Gold - Women’s 50 overs
  • Bronze - Men’s 50 overs
Indonesia
  • Gold - Women’s 6s
  • Silver - Women’s T20
  • Silver - Women’s 50 overs
  • Bronze - Men’s 6s
Singapore
  • Gold - Men’s 6s
  • Bronze - Men’s T10
  • Bronze - Men’s T20
Malaysia
  • Silver - Men’s T10
  • Silver - Men’s T20
  • Silver - Men’s 50 overs
  • Bronze - Women’s T10
  • Bronze - Women’s T20
  • Bronze - Women’s 50 overs
Philippines
  • Silver - Women’s 6s
  • Silver - Women’s T10
Myanmar
  • Women’s 6s
Total medals awarded8 gold, 8 silver, and 8 bronze

What will the 2025 SEA Games cricket be like?

Full details for the upcoming cricket events at the 2025 SEA Games have yet to be confirmed, but the tournament may be smaller in scale than the 2023 edition. The tentative competition schedule for the 33rd SEA Games currently lists only four gold medals for cricket, suggesting a reduced program.

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Cricket masterminds: The greatest coaches in history

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When fans talk cricket, the conversation often starts and ends with legendary players—batsmen, bowlers, all-rounders. However, behind every successful team or standout performance, a coach usually calls the shots, shapes strategies, and builds mental strength from the sidelines.

Cricket coaches play an important role that is often not given enough attention. To introduce you to their role, here are some of the best and most successful coaches who have guided teams from the sidelines.

John Buchanan

John Buchanan might just be the most successful coach in cricket history. He led Australia to two ICC World Cup wins in 2003 and 2007, as well as multiple Ashes and Champions Trophy victories. His coaching era from 1999 to 2007 gave Australia numerous major victories.

Some people said Buchanan was lucky to have a strong team, but his focus on discipline, mental strength, and new ideas helped the players improve even more. His organised way of leading gave stars like Ricky Ponting and Adam Gilchrist a good stepping stone for success.

Bob Woolmer

Bob Woolmer was known as a smart and forward-thinking coach. He used a more scientific way of coaching when he worked with South Africa in the 1990s and later with Pakistan in the 2000s. He focused on fitness, studying game data, and helping players understand the game better, which changed how teams trained and played. 

Because of his excellence and contribution to Pakistan’s team, he was given a high-ranking award called the ‘Sitara-e-Imtiaz’. Sadly, he passed away during the 2007 World Cup, which was a big shock to the cricket world. Even so, he is still remembered as a great coach and teacher of the game.

Gary Kirsten

Gary Kirsten was a calm and smart coach who was well-respected by many. People say his coaching helped the team work well together and stay focused. While he was the coach, India won the 2011 Cricket World Cup, their first in 28 years. 

Former captain MS Dhoni often said that Kirsten was ‘the best thing that’s ever happened to Indian cricket’ because of his excellence in coaching. He was also a retired cricketer who holds the record for the highest number of runs in a single inning in an ODI by a South African player. 

Ravi Shastri

After quitting cricket as a player, he became the head coach of India’s cricket team from 2017 to 2021. Because of his previous experience in the field, he managed to be a part of some historic wins in Test matches, including a series win in Australia in 2018-19. 

In history, he is often referred to as the most popular coach in the history of Indian Cricket. His team management and excellence in coaching led to multiple successes, even defeating Australia on their home court. However, he failed to secure a major ICC title during his tenure. Despite this, many still believe he is one of the greatest coaches. 

Duncan Fletcher

The Englishman Duncan Fletcher is considered one of the greatest coaches of the early 2000s. One of his biggest achievements was helping England win the 2005 Ashes series, which ended a long-standing 18-year losing streak against Australia. He was known for his smart thinking and mixing old-school coaching with new ideas. 

He also coached the Indian team and managed to win the Champions Trophy. However, he came when many senior players were retiring and no longer part of the squad. Even though that was the case, India still reached the semi-finals of the 2015 World Cup. Despite successes, his contract with the Indian team was not extended, signifying that it was his last dance with them. 

The heroes behind the limelight

These are just some of the greatest coaches to ever grace the world of cricket. From John Buchanan’s top-notch strategies to Duncan Fletcher’s end of an 18-year losing streak, these achievements will forever be etched in history.

The players they handled were thankful they got to work side-by-side with them, with M.S. Dhoni even telling the world that Gary Kirsten is ‘the greatest to ever happen in the Indian Team.’

Whenever a star player reaches great heights, think of the one who supported them as well: their coach. 

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Godfather of Cricket: Everything you need to know

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Every sport has its legends, like football with Lionel Messi and Pelé or basketball with Michael Jordan and LeBron James. Cricket has multiple players throughout its illustrious history who could be considered some of its greatest representatives. 

Some names pop up in the cricket world, and you can always rely on them to be considered some of the greatest. Die-hard cricket fans would label a player like this the ‘Godfather of Cricket’ due to their significant impact on the sport and their profound influence on fans. Do you want to know the best candidates? Get to know more about them, but learn first the criteria! 

How does one become the Godfather of Cricket?

The term ‘Godfather’ is a special title in cricket as it signifies that a specific player had a monumental impact on the sport. It’s not outright the best player in cricket’s history, but the Godfather should be an all-time great who made an impact only matched by a small group of players who could also be candidates for the tag.

Here are some factors that could be considered when deciding a cricketer’s impact: 

The best candidates for the Godfather of Cricket

Don Bradman (Australia)

Donald Bradman is an immortal name in cricket history, largely due to his unparalleled test batting average of 99.94. He set tremendous records that are hard to believe today, which made him the golden standard of cricket during his time as a star player. 

Bradman was a big deal in Australia as he became a cultural symbol. The country saw him as something to believe in, as they got through the Great Depression and the post-war times. He was also crucial in growing the sport worldwide with his performances at the Ashes against England, and his influential batting technique.

Viv Richards (West Indies)

If you want a cricket player who brings flair and a defiant attitude to the sport, look no further than Sir Viv Richards. He redefined what it meant to be a top cricketer in the modern age, as he cemented the West Indies as a powerhouse in the sport. 

Richards was scoring plenty of runs, but he made it fun. He did it with swagger, which was enticing to the young fans of the sport. His fearless batting made him an icon and the symbol of pride in the Caribbean. Richards was also a leader who dominated cricket for over a decade, and his attacking influence remains today.

MS Dhoni (India)

Mahendra Singh (MS) Dhoni is known for being one of India’s top stars. His exceptional leadership helped India win the first-ever T20 World Cup in 2007 and led his country to win the 2011 ODI World Cup. 

Dhoni was always a calm player, earning him the moniker ‘Captain Cool’, which was a fantastic name for him as it described him well. Dhoni had a great attitude that people admired because he was always quietly focused on his tasks. With that focus on the matches, he put in some key performances as a wicketkeeper and batsman.

He mentored a new generation of Indian players, and he is a big reason why the country is such a powerhouse in the sport. With his humble approach to the sport, the younger generation felt they could be like him. His influence on the younger players has led to another golden generation of talented cricketers in India and other countries.

Jacques Kallis (South Africa)

While he often gets overlooked, Jacques Kallis is an underrated Godfather of the sport. He has over 10,000 runs and 290 wickets across Test and ODI cricket. Kallis is arguably the greatest all-rounder cricket has ever seen, which is common now, but only a few can do it at a high level like Kallis.

During his career, Kallis was always the focus of the opponents’ scouting report. Former England captain Michael Vaughan was always wary of playing against Kallis because everyone knew the South African player would always make an impact as a batsman or a bowler.

He was a big reason behind South Africa’s success with batting, and he did that while serving as a frontline seamer. The influence might often be understated by casual cricket fans, but true cricket fans know how much Kallis deserves all the love he is getting. 

Cricket will keep getting new Godfather candidates

Across the sport of cricket, multiple nations have produced legends. Most cricketing countries will bring out top-tier players again, who could become bigger legends than those who precede them.

In most sports, some players are good enough to have long-lasting legacies. They could be famous beyond their careers because they were impactful and influential enough to be remembered by multiple generations. All the cricketers mentioned here are potential Godfathers of the sport, and their names deserve to be etched into history.

GOATs of cricket: The most iconic players in history

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Over the years, several cricket players have made their mark on the sport. A few stand out as true legends. These athletes not only changed the game but also inspired millions with their skill, grit, and heart.

From the powerful batsmen who smashed records to the bowlers who dominated the field, each greatest of all time (GOAT) has a story to tell. Get to know some of them below: 

Donald Bradman (Australia)

Born in Australia, Don Bradman, ‘The Don,’ rose to fame with a bat in hand. From 1927 to 1949, his skills were on display. His test statistics were remarkable, with nearly 7,000 runs to his name. 

However, what sets him far apart is his batting average. At 99.94, it's a record few can chase. It stands as proof of his class and grace. His style was his own, and he would tap the bat, lift it high, then strike with force as the ball flew by. This allowed Bradman to time each hit, showing an exceptional play. 

Garfield Sobers (West Indies)

Garfield Sobers played for the West Indies from 1954 to 1974, leaving a huge mark on the sport. Sobers is not just a batsman; he is a true all-rounder. His skills with both bat and ball changed how the game was played.

Sobers made waves in domestic cricket as well, playing for teams like Barbados and Nottinghamshire in England. He is known for his flair and power. One of his most famous feats is hitting six sixes in a single over, a record that shocked fans and players alike.

He once held the record for the highest individual Test score, 365 not out, a milestone that stood until 1994. This achievement showed his ability to dominate the game. His left-arm bowling was equally impressive, making him a threat in any match.

With his talent, Sobers redefined what it meant to be a cricketer. His talent and passion inspired future generations and set new standards in the game. He remains a legend, regarded for his skill and sportsmanship.

Sachin Tendulkar (India)

Sachin, known as the 'God of Cricket', is regarded as one of the best to ever play. His time in the sport lasted 24 years, a feat in its own right. He set many records that made him a star worldwide.

Sachin played for India from 1989 to 2013. He represented Mumbai in domestic cricket and made history as the first overseas player for Yorkshire. His unmatched concentration and skill were further proven when he became the first cricketer to score 100 international centuries.

Jacques Kallis (South Africa)

Jacques Kallis played for South Africa from 1995 to 2014, and people see him as the best all-rounder of the modern age. Kallis is great with both the bat and the ball. He also played for teams like Western Province and Kolkata Knight Riders. 

Kallis is known for his steady play. He scored over 10,000 runs and took more than 250 wickets in both Tests and ODIs, a rare feat. Kallis holds the record for most Test tons by a South African. His batting style is classic and sure, and his bowling is handy. Many see Jacques Kallis as one of the best to ever grace the sport.

Wasim Akram (Pakistan)

Wasim Akram is a name that rings with speed and skill. His gift for swing made him a star, and his work still inspires players today. Wasim could move the ball in ways that left batters in shock. 

He is the first bowler to reach the 500-wicket mark in ODIs. His in-swinging balls were a sight to see, often hitting the mark. Wasim's skill and drive have made him a role model for many aspiring players, making him stand tall as a true icon of the sport.

Brian Lara (West Indies)

Brian Lara represented the West Indies from 1990 to 2007, and his breathtaking style still captivates cricket fans around the world. In addition to his international success, he played domestically for Trinidad and Tobago and Warwickshire in English county cricket.

Lara holds the record for the highest individual score in Test cricket, an unbeaten 400 against England in 2004. He also owns the record for the highest first-class score, having made 501 not out for Warwickshire in 1994. These monumental innings cemented his status as one of the most prolific and elegant batters in the history of the game.

Shane Warne (Australia)

Shane Warne was a spin bowler who played for the Australian team from 1992 to 2007. Warne played for teams like Victoria and Hampshire. He took 708 wickets in Tests, making him the second-highest wicket-taker ever. This feat shows his skill and power on the field.

One of his most famous moments is the ‘Ball of the Century,’ which changed how spin bowling is seen. Warne's clever tactics turned leg-spin into a strong weapon, making him a feared bowler.

The X-factor: What every great cricketer has in common

In the world of cricket, some players shine brighter than others. They have a spark, a unique quality that sets them apart. This special trait, known as the X-factor, is what makes these athletes great. 

Some of the unique traits that every great cricket player has in common include: 

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