Why Newcastle United and Man United are interested in Šeško
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.
Italy shocks Europe: Your guide to their T20 cricket rise
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.
Excitement builds for cricket at the 2025 SEA Games in Bangkok
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:
2017 SEA Games - Malaysia
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 awarded
3 gold, 3 silver, and 3 bronze (9 medals)
2023 SEA Games - Cambodia
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:
Medalist
Medals 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 awarded
8 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.
Cricket masterminds: The greatest coaches in history
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.
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:
Cultural influence - For a player to be crowned as a Godfather, they should have a strong impact on the sport’s culture. They should be icons due to their exceptional talent, making them a big influence in their countries and worldwide. A cricket Godfather should be well-known worldwide, not only to their country’s cricket fan base. They should be recognised whenever on screen, or their name at least invokes a reaction from the fans.
A strong legacy as a cricketer - At its core, the Godfather tag should be given to players who have the talent to be called superstars. The player should have achieved notable statistics, success, and a lasting impact on cricket history.
A pioneer of the sport - To be a Godfather, one must have made a significant impact on the sport. They must be a pioneer or someone who transformed the sport because of their 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
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:
Skill and technique → Top players master their craft. They have sharp skills in batting, bowling, and fielding. This skill shows in their smooth swings and precise throws. Solid technique allows them to handle tough situations with ease.
Mental toughness → Cricket is as much a game of mind as it is of skill. Great cricketers stay calm under pressure, allowing them to focus, even when the game gets tense. This mental strength helps them bounce back from errors and keep pushing forward.
Work ethic → The best cricket players train long hours, perfecting every move. Their dedication to practice sets them apart. They push through tough days, always aiming to improve.
Passion for the game → A true love for cricket drives many top cricket players. This passion fuels their desire to play and win. It’s not just a job for them; it’s a way of life.
Commanders in white: Who are cricket's ultimate field captains?
Being captain isn’t simply about setting the field or calling heads or tails. Captains need to understand their teammates and adjust to different situations. Their decisions affect team mood, tactics, and results. For fans, the question of who's the best captain is always a fun yet heated debate. Here's a look at the top leaders who’ve best stood out on the field:
The mark of a good captain: What skills lead to greatness?
Great captaincy requires handling pressures that fans rarely notice. For instance, modern leaders must deal with media scrutiny and guide their teams through changes after retirement.
They also need to balance their roles between franchise and national duties. Their job goes well beyond the boundary rope, where calm judgment, communication, and a long-term vision show their value.
Here are the things that make a great cricket captain:
Win/loss ratios
A captain’s win/loss record gives a quick look at how well they’ve done. However, the full story is more than simple numbers. Winning often with a strong team can make the record look better than it is.
On the other hand, leading a weak or new team can hurt the record, even if the captain does a good job. Doing well under pressure, despite the odds, is a true mark of greatness that no numbers can measure.
Strength of opposition
Wins against weaker teams can make the numbers look nice, but they don’t tell much. It’s the tough, close games against strong sides that test a captain. These games show if a captain can stay calm and think fast. Playing well against the best teams shows real skill. Even if the team doesn’t always win, the captain earns respect.
Team progression
A great captain helps the team get better than before. This can show in higher rankings, a stronger bench, or a clearer playstyle. Even when the team is rebuilding, good leaders prepare for future wins. Real progress often comes from work done off the field, not only from what happens during the game.
Tactical decisions
Picking different bowlers or changing the batting order can win or lose matches. Great captains watch the game closely and change plans as things happen. They notice when the game swings or how the pitch is playing.
Using both feeling and planning, they can beat teams with better players. While some choices are easy, the brave and well-timed ones show real skill.
Player development
Captains help young players get better and support the experienced ones. A good leader makes a safe space where players can learn from mistakes and grow.
Trust and encouragement help players find their place in the team. Giving players real jobs can change their careers. Many top players say they did well because a captain believed in them early.
Versatility
Being a captain today means leading in Tests, ODIs, and T20s. Each game is different and needs a different direction. Changing from slow and steady play to fast and risky is not easy. Captains who can change their style for each game, place, and player’s need should be flexible. These captains often keep their teams strong for a long time.
The finest captains under the spotlight
Today’s top cricket teams owe much of their success to strong leaders. India, England, and Australia have improved because their captains bring the team together. Watching these captains shows how important they are for keeping and growing the best teams in cricket.
Here are the top cricket captains today:
Virat Kohli (India)
Virat Kohli led India’s Test team with bold captaincy and great batting. He scored 7,000 Test runs in only 138 innings, among the fastest in cricket history. Kohli played well in other countries and built a strong and tough team. His leadership changed Indian cricket by mixing a strong fighting spirit with helping young players.
Pat Cummins (Australia)
Pat Cummins stands out as Australia’s calm and smart captain. He has helped the team win major trophies while excelling as a bowler. Cummins is one of the fastest to take 150 Test wickets. He recorded one of the best bowling performances by an Australian captain with 6/23.
Kane Williamson (New Zealand)
Kane Williamson is renowned for his tactical genius and calmness under pressure. He leads New Zealand with quiet confidence, fostering a strong team spirit.
Over his career, he ranks among New Zealand’s most experienced leaders, having captained in nearly 100 ODIs. Williamson has also scored centuries in both innings of a Test match, demonstrating remarkable skill and steady focus.
Ben Stokes (England)
Ben Stokes leads England’s ‘Bazball’ style with bold and fearless play, transforming Test cricket through brave decisions and innovative tactics. As captain, he supports attacking play and taking risks instead of following old ways. His biggest record includes hitting the most sixes in Test history at 133. It shows the fast-paced style he brings, mixing fun with strong drive.
MS Dhoni (India)
MS Dhoni turned the Chennai team into a winning machine with ice-cold choices and strong trust in his players. He stayed calm even in tough moments and changed how people see captaincy. His top record includes the most stumpings in international cricket at 195. It pays tribute to his quick reflexes behind the stumps in high-stakes games.
Rohit Sharma (India)
Rohit Sharma shocked Indian cricket in 2023 with smart field moves and a calm mind. He is known for having the highest score in an innings in ODI history at 264 runs. He also has a total of 637 sixes in 499 international matches. These records show his timing, control, and focus. He changed power-hitting by mixing strength with smooth, clean shots.
Stats vs strategy: Which bears more weight?
While numbers show how a captain does, they aren't enough to show a leader's value. There are things that numbers can't measure, like wit, morale, and the inspiration they bring to the team.
In T20 cricket, where data is used a lot, leaders still need feeling and heart. As new stars change the field, the question of who's the best captain remains an ever-changing debate.
Three Lions’ roar: England’s best cricketers in history
England has been pivotal in shaping cricket worldwide from its inception to today. It is a country jam-packed with tradition and iconic players throughout its history. These special players have left an indelible mark on the country’s rich cricket history.
James Anderson
During his career, James Anderson cemented himself as England’s finest pace bowler. He is the all-time leading wicket-taker among fast bowlers in English Test cricket with 704. At the same time, he is ranked third worldwide, as he was only behind Shane Warne from Australia and Muttiah Muralitharan from Sri Lanka in Test cricket.
Anderson specialised in his deadly swing bowling, which tormented batsmen for over two decades. He was a player who stepped up for England whenever they needed a star player. Anderson had a career worthy of a legend, as he had plenty of feats.
The legendary bowler does not see himself as a top-tier player, but his feats say otherwise. He was a stellar cricket player, and he deserves to be known as one of England’s best. Anderson is not playing with England any more after retiring in 2024, but he still plays for Lancashire. When he does step away from the sport entirely, he should be unanimously known as a legend.
Jack Hobbs
When it comes to sheer stats, Sir Jack Hobbs is one of the best in England’s history. With over 61,000 first-class runs and a whopping 199 centuries in his career, Hobbs is an all-time great.
He was a machine with runs, as he found ways to keep scoring. His records have stood the test of time as he was a special player. The batting was always fun to watch since it was effective, but he made it graceful. He was worthy of his moniker of ‘The Master’ as he was a consistent player, who was also fun to watch.
On and off the field, Hobbs was an icon of the sport. He was a pioneer for cricket, as Hobbs remains one of its biggest names. He might have played in the early 1900s, but he is still known as an icon of the Three Lions nearly a century after he retired.
Ian Botham
Every time Ian Botham rocked up to the field, he helped his team compete. He was a true all-rounder with his batting and bowling, but he always did it with a sense of flair. He was one of the most entertaining cricket players England ever had, as he captured everyone’s attention in the 1970s and 1980s with his flashy moments.
Botham can always turn a game on its head with his aggressive style, which helped his team win the matches. His centuries and wicket-taking made him a national hero of cricket in England.
The 1981 Ashes remains one of his best performances, becoming known as ‘Botham’s Ashes’. It is now etched into English folklore as he stood out with the combination of stats and moments that will forever be remembered.
Alastair Cook
As England’s all-time leading Test run-scorer with over 12,000 runs and 33 centuries, Alastair Cook is an icon. He was a master of concentration and technique, which made him the backbone of England’s batting for over a decade from 2006 to 2018.
He was a superb batsman, but at the same time, he was also a captain. He led with humility and was always determined to get a good result. England did not win a major trophy during his tenure, but he was superb in memorable wins like the 2013 and 2015 Ashes.
These are four of England’s best-ever players, and they deserve all the credit. They proved England is a top cricketing country, and they will continue to be for a long time. With other countries proving their worth as cricket hubs, England has kept up with them at the highest level of international cricket due to its players.
Australia’s finest: The best Aussie cricketers in history
Australia has been a dominant force in the cricket world as a country that has produced plenty of legendary players. They have been successful across many generations, which means they have a rich history of producing top-tier talent.
As the home of many all-time great players, Aussie cricket has plenty of icons. Let us have a look at four of Australia’s icons who deserve their names etched in the cricket history books.
Don Bradman
Sir Donald Bradman is one of the greatest cricketers of all time, which is proven by a spectacular Test batting average of 99.94. That is one of the biggest statistical anomalies in sports history, as it shows his iconic reputation. His reflexes were unbelievable, as he had a near-inhuman hand-eye coordination.
Nowadays, he feels like a fairy tale as he played from the late 1920s to the late 1940s. He remains one of the most recognisable names in cricket, nearly a century after he started his career.
His greatness is way better than the numbers suggest, as he was also a cultural icon. Bradman played a huge part in helping Australia reach the pinnacle of cricket when British teams often dominated the sport. He was influential with his style, grit, and overall brilliance, as shown by his nickname, the Don.
Shane Warne
Seen as a magical cricketer during his playing years, Shane Warne was an Aussie all-time great spinner. He has a history of over 700 Test wickets, which is a feat only a few bowlers have achieved in their careers. He played a key role in reviving leg-spin bowling, which had been in decline before his rise.
The focus on the leg-spin made him a nightmare for batters. Whenever Warne was bowling, Australia often had the advantage as he was always a tough matchup due to his natural ability to deceive batters with the spin and variations he had with the ball. He had plenty of magical moments, including the ‘Ball of the Century’ against Mike Gatting in the 1993 Ashes Test match against England.
As a top-tier bowler, Warne has cemented himself in the history books as a statistical great, but also as a man with an iconic moment.
Steve Waugh
During his cricket career, Steve Waugh was the best example of a mentally tough cricketer. He was always composed during his career as a middle-order batsman. Waugh always found ways to deliver when Australia needed him. He was not flashy, but he was an effective batsman.
Through his batting, Waugh also became one of the most reliable leaders. When he was Australia’s captain, the country became a cricket powerhouse. Australia set a record of 16 consecutive Test wins between 1999 and 2001.
Waugh also led the Australian ODI team, winning 20 out of 36 matches, including the 1999 Cricket World Cup. With that kind of impact, Waugh is a legendary batsman and captain.
Ricky Ponting
Speaking of iconic captains, Ricky Ponting was a great example as well. He was always hungry for victory, which was evident in his strength as a batsman. During his career, he scored 27 centuries in Test cricket fixtures, as he always displayed a no-nonsense attitude.
Ponting was consistently impactful during his active career. Every time Australia needed him to perform, he seemingly made an impact. He is one of the greatest batsmen the sport has ever seen, which is amplified by the back-to-back World Cup wins in 2003 and 2007 alongside the 2006 and 2009 ICC Champions Trophies.
All these Aussie superstars deserve to be hailed as all-time greats. They all have strong cases for it, so they will continue to stand out as historic cricket players for the country, as it progresses in cricket.
India's Test cricket icons: The legacy of Kohli and Sharma
If you’re an avid follower of Indian cricket, you can always tell the difference between two of their most iconic players. One had fire in his eyes while gripping the bat like a sword. The other played like a calm tide, steady and focused. Together, they helped shape a golden era for India’s red-ball journey.
Virat Kohli’s fierce energy lit up every field he stood on, while Rohit Sharma’s quiet confidence spoke through each bat he flicked. Now, with both stepping away from Test cricket, it feels like a book has closed in Indian cricket’s story.
They weren’t just players; Kohli and Sharma became the squad’s pillars, in terms of form, fight, and faith. Over the years, they carried the pressure, hope, and pride of millions of fans. Here’s a look back at how these two changed the face of Indian Test cricket, and see why their legacy will never be forgotten.
The rise of the icons
Their roads to greatness didn’t start the same way. Rohit Sharma burst into the Test scene in 2013 against the West Indies. In his first two games, he struck back-to-back centuries, which proved that his talent isn’t only fit for white-ball cricket.
Virat Kohli, on the other hand, faced his early struggles. His 2011–12 Australia tour tested him hard. Yet, he rose to the challenge in Adelaide, scoring a century that showed he had what it takes to be a champ on the field. These innings became his turning point.
During MS Dhoni’s final years as Test captain, both men played in the shadows. There were doubts, as Kohli was seen as too aggressive and Sharma as too unsure. Time gave them the space to grow, and before they knew it, they were already shaping the future of India’s Test cricket.
The duo’s impact on Indian cricket
Kohli took over as India’s Test captain in 2014. He pushed for discipline and made fitness non-negotiable. Under his leadership, India went from strong at home to bold abroad.
This allowed Kohli’s intense passion and playing form to bloom stronger. He also acknowledged his tendency to be aggressive on the field. He shared, ‘The kind of person I am, the kind of personality I have, yes, I do have tendencies to kind of go overboard. And I've never shied away from that’.
Think of the big wins that followed under his captaincy—India’s first-ever Test series victory in Australia in 2018. Even their fierce fight in England back in 2021 was iconic. It was unfinished but just as iconic as their other games.
On the other hand, Rohit Sharma’s full bloom in Tests came later. However, once he moved to the top of the order in 2019, Sharma became a force on the field. His patience, timing, and control helped maintain India’s innings in every match. As a skipper, he brought calmness even in the most intense moments.
Together, they didn’t just win each match. They also shaped a team that could take on anyone. Their partnership brought strength, clarity, and a deep sense of belief in the Indian white squad.
Defining moments: Matches that made their Test legacy
Every icon has that one match that shifts history. Across their Test careers, Kohli and Sharma delivered some of the finest individual performances in Indian cricket. Here are the defining innings that shaped their careers in whites:
Kohli’s 141 in Adelaide (2014)
Match: 1st Test vs Australia, Adelaide Oval
Result: Australia won by 48 runs
Chasing 364 on the final day, Kohli played a fearless knock of 141 off 175 balls. He took on the Australian attack with bold strokes, even as wickets fell at the other end. India didn’t win, but his intent changed how you saw Indian cricket abroad. It was leadership through example.
Kohli’s 149 at Edgbaston (2018)
Match: 1st Test vs England, Edgbaston
Result: England won by 31 runs
During this match, India were struggling. The ball was swinging under clouds, and English bowlers were in full rhythm. Then Kohli stepped in with a gritty 149 in the first innings. He battled James Anderson’s spells and silenced the doubters who said he couldn’t perform in English conditions. It was one of the toughest knocks of his career.
Rohit Sharma’s debut century at Eden Gardens (2013)
Match: 2nd Test vs West Indies, Kolkata
Result: India won by an innings and 51 runs
Rohit had waited years for this chance. On his West Indies debut, he made 177 with calmness and flair. In the next match, he scored an unbeaten 111 in Mumbai. It was a dream start, and it shut down critics who felt he didn’t belong in red-ball cricket.
Sharma’s 212 vs South Africa (2019)
Match: 3rd Test vs South Africa, Ranchi
Result: India won by an innings and 202 runs
This innings proved that Rohit could thrive as a Test opener. He crafted 212 runs with sharp footwork and precise timing on a slow pitch. It helped India seal a 3-0 sweep and cemented his role at the top of the order.
Farewell, champs
One didn’t need to watch every match to feel their presence. Their recent exit from Test cricket came not with a bang but an ache. Fans flooded timelines with photos, stats, and tearful posts. ‘End of an era,’ most headlines read, and it felt true.
India’s symbols of a decade of Indian dominance, fight, and spirit, have now reached their end. Their absence now marks a new chapter, but what remains is the culture they built.
The next generation of Indian Test cricket will step up. Young stars like Shubman Gill and Yashasvi Jaiswal often point to them as inspirations, standing on the solid base that Kohli and Sharma helped shape.
