Cricket is a game that’s loved all over the world – and, as such, it has produced some extraordinary players who have earned legions of fans, thanks to their skill, passion, and sheer brilliance on the field. So obviously, picking the best ones ever is no easy feat. But we’ve had a good go at choosing some of the ones that we think stand out.
So, with that being said, here’s a look at some of the greatest cricketers ever – in our opinion.
1. Sir Donald Bradman – Australia
No conversation about cricketing greatness could ever be complete without mentioning the legendary Sir Donald Bradman. Known simply as “The Don,” this cricketer extraordinaire is considered by many to be the greatest batsman of all time. He has a career batting average of 99.94 in Test cricket – which is an unparalleled achievement – and is proof of his excellence.
Why He Makes Our List:
• Scored 6,996 runs in just 52 Test matches.
• Achieved 29 centuries.
• He revolutionised batting with his aggressiveness, precision, and strategy.
But his brilliance transcends statistics. He became a symbol of hope and resilience for Aussies during the Great Depression.
2. Sachin Tendulkar – India
Of course, there has to be an Indian player on the list – and he's in at number two. Revered as the ‘Little Master’, his is a name synonymous with cricketing greatness. With a 24-year international career, he has demonstrated unmatched skill, adaptability, and a hunger for runs.
Why He Makes Our List:
• He accumulated 34,357 international runs in Tests and ODIs combined.
• Scored no less than 100 international centuries—a record which looks unlikely to be broken.
• Played a huge role when India won the 2011 ICC Cricket World Cup.
Tendulkar is a player with grace, humility, and consistency which has made him a fan favourite. His ability to perform under pressure has made him a national and international hero.
3. Jacques Kallis – South Africa
Next, we go over to South Africa – and Jacques Kallis who is arguably the greatest all-rounder in cricket history ever. He is brilliant with both bat and ball – and that’s what sets him apart from the rest and has made him an invaluable asset to the cricketing success of his country.
Why He Makes Our List
• He managed to score 13,289 runs and took 292 wickets in Test cricket.
• He achieved 45 Test centuries – which is the second-most in history after Tendulkar.
• He was also a superb bowler who could turn a game with the ball.
He was the epitome of versatility and longevity – and he’s right up there with cricket’s elite.
4. Sir Garfield Sobers: West Indies
We had to have a West Indies player on the list – and it’s Sir Garfield Sobers, who is considered by many to be the first true all-rounder in cricket history. He had an incredible talent that meant he dominated with both bat and ball, making him the whole package.
Why He Makes Our List
• He scored 8,032 Test runs at an average of 57.78.
• He took 235 wickets and was a superb fielder.
• He memorably scored 365 not out against Pakistan – which was a world record for 36 years.
He had flair and innovation – and set new standards for cricket.
5: James Anderson: England
England may be best known to fans and sports punters for prioritising football betting and the world-famous English Premier League odds – but cricket and cricket betting comes a pretty close second – and that’s reflected in the calibre of players they have produced over the years. This brings us to James Anderson, who is considered to be one of England’s greatest ever cricketers and the most successful fast bowler in Test history with a mastery of swing bowling that makes him a modern-day marvel.
Why He Makes Our List:
• Taken over 690 Test wickets -the most by any fast bowler.
• Was a major player in England’s four Ashes victories -2005, 2009, 2013, and 2015.
• Adaptable to all different conditions – playing well both in England and overseas.
This is a player who has really redefined what it means to be a fast bowler in the world of modern cricket and his pursuit of excellence has inspired a whole new generation of bowlers.
This is just the top five… and there are so many more we could add! Who do you think should be on the list?
