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Strong batting acts as the backbone of the team, often determining the outcome of the match. A strong batting line-up can set strong targets, chase challenging scores, and stabilize an innings under pressure.
In formats like ODIs and T20Is, a strong batting performance allows teams to post challenging scores that put pressure on the opposition. A well-crafted innings with contributions from the top and middle order ensures a competitive total, giving the bowlers a strong base to defend.
Successful teams rely on key contributions to keep the scoreboard ticking. Strong batsmen make these partnerships, provide stability and prevent collapse, which is important in high-stakes matches.
A skilled batting line-up can also chase down a tough total. The ability to pace the innings, rotate the strike and accelerate when needed makes strong batting indispensable in a successful chase.
Cricket matches often hinge on pressure moments. Strong batsmen with composure and adaptability can anchor an innings, absorb pressure and lead their team to victory.
Ultimately, strong batting not only sets the tone for the match but also complements the bowlers’ efforts, making it an essential ingredient for success.
A good batsman is the cornerstone of any cricket team’s success, combining technical ability, mental flexibility and adaptability.
A good batsman should have a strong foundation in technique, including good grip, stance and footwork. Proper shot selection and the ability to play both front foot and back foot strokes ensure consistent performance across conditions and formats.
Focus is very important, especially in longer formats like Test cricket. The ability to maintain focus for long periods of time helps a batsman to build an innings and avoid making hasty decisions under pressure.
The best batsmen can adapt their game to different conditions, pitches and bowling styles. Whether facing fast bowlers on a bouncy track or spinners on turning pitches, adaptation is the key to success.
Patience and patience under pressure differentiates a good batsman. The ability to remain calm during difficult situations and handle high-pressure moments, such as a chase or partnering, is essential.
A good batsman has a keen understanding of the game. This includes reading the bowlers’ strategies, rotating the strike effectively, and knowing when to accelerate or strengthen.
Physical fitness enhances a batsman’s ability to run between the wickets, stay focused and endure long innings without tiring. A good batsman balances aggression with composure, knowing when to attack and when to defend, ensuring long-term success and team contributions.
By combining these qualities, a batsman can consistently contribute to his team’s victories, earning respect as a reliable and valued player in the cricketing world.
Over the past 10 years or so, six batsmen have dominated world cricket across all formats, showcasing their skill, adaptability and hunger for runs. In this article we discuss statistics highlighting their achievements and impact on the game.
Virat Kohli
Often referred to as the “King of Cricket”, Virat Kohli has been the cornerstone of Indian cricket. His incredible consistency and unparalleled appetite for runs make him one of the best batsmen of the modern era.
· Formats: Test, ODI, T20
· Statistics (up to 2024):
o Tests: 8,600+ runs, average 49+, 28 centuries
o ODIs: 13,000+ runs, average 57+, 47 centuries
o T20Is: 4,000+ runs, average 50+, strike rate 137+
· Career Highlights:
o Fastest 12000 runs in ODIs.
o Several times ICC ODI Cricketer of the Year.
Kohli’s unparalleled fitness, mental toughness and ability to perform under pressure make him a modern great. He dominates bowlers across the world in all formats.
Babar Azam (Pakistan)
Babar Azam is often regarded as Pakistan’s greatest batting talent after the legendary Inzamam-ul-Haq. His calm demeanor, textbook technique, and ability to anchor an innings have earned him universal acclaim.
· Formats: Test, ODI, T20
· Statistics (up to 2024):
o Tests: 4,500+ runs, average 47+, 10 centuries
o ODIs: 5,800+ runs, average 58+, 20 centuries
o T20Is: 3,500+ runs, average 42+, strike rate 130+
· Career Highlights:
o ICC ODI Player of the Year (2021, 2022).
o Fastest 2000 T20I runs.
o Top-ranked batsmen in the ICC ODI Rankings for many years.
Babar is a technically sound batsman, who excels in all formats. His ability to adapt to different situations and formats makes him one of the most reliable batsmen in the world.
Steve Smith (Australia)
Steve Smith has redefined batting in Test cricket with his unorthodox technique and extraordinary consistency. His ability to score runs against the best bowling attack in difficult conditions is unmatched.
· Formats: Test, ODI
· Statistics (up to 2024):
o Tests: 9,000+ runs, average 58+, 32 centuries
o ODIs: 4,700+ runs, average 44+, 12 centuries
· Major Achievements:
o ICC Test Player of the Year (2015, 2017).
o Ashes hero with multiple centuries under pressure.
o Maintained a test average of more than 60 for several years.
Smith’s ability to handle pressure, especially in a marquee series like the Ashes, makes him a standout performer. His batting record in Test cricket ranks him among the all-time greats.
Joe Root (England)
Joe Root is playing an important role in England’s batting line-up, especially in Test cricket. Known for his silky drives and impeccable technique, Root has been a consistent performer in all conditions.
· Formats: Test, ODI
· Statistics (up to 2024):
o Tests: 11,000+ runs, average 50+, 29 centuries
o ODIs: 6,500+ runs, average 51+, 16 centuries
· Career Highlights:
o Fastest English batsman to score 8000 Test runs.
o Key player in England’s 2019 World Cup winning team.
o Record of runs scored in home and away conditions.
Root’s ability to play spin and pace equally well makes him a versatile batsman. His form has been crucial to England’s success over the last few years.
Kane Williamson (New Zealand)
Kane Williamson is the epitome of elegance and consistency. As New Zealand’s captain, he has led from the front, delivering match-winning performances across all formats.
· Formats: Test, ODI, T20
· Statistics (up to 2024):
o Tests: 7,800+ runs, average 54+, 25 centuries
o ODIs: 6,200+ runs, average 48+, 14 centuries
o T20Is: 2,400+ runs, average 32+, strike rate 126+
· Career Highlights:
o ICC Player of the Tournament in the 2019 Cricket World Cup.
o Led New Zealand to their first ever ICC World Test Championship title.
o Known for his ability to build partnerships and play spin effectively.
Williamson’s consistency across all formats, combined with his calm leadership, makes him a key player for New Zealand and one of the top batsmen in the world.
Rohit Sharma (India)
Rohit Sharma, often referred to as the “Hitman”, is one of the most explosive batsmen in limited overs cricket. His ability to score double centuries in ODIs sets him apart from his peers.
· Formats: Test, ODI, T20
· Statistics (up to 2024):
o Tests: 3,500+ runs, average 46+, 9 centuries
o ODIs: 10,500+ runs, average 49+, 30 centuries
o T20Is: 4,000+ runs, average 32+, strike rate 140+
· Career Highlights:
o Only player to score three double centuries in ODIs.
o ICC ODI Player of the Year 2019.
o Highest individual score in ODIs (264 runs).
Rohit’s ability to accelerate his innings and score big in white-ball cricket makes him one of the most dangerous batsmen in the modern game.
The batsmen listed above represent the best of modern cricket. His consistency, adaptability and hunger for runs make him an integral part of his teams’ success. While statistics paint a picture of his greatness, it is his ability to rise to the occasion and perform under pressure that truly sets him apart. As cricket continues to evolve, these players will undoubtedly leave a lasting legacy, inspiring future generations to take up the game.
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