Players Who Have Thrived in All Formats of Cricket

In modern cricket, excelling in all three formats of the game is crucial for a cricketer’s success and legacy. It’s not just about scoring runs or taking wickets; it’s about being adaptable, having diverse skills, and staying mentally strong.

A cricketer who excels in all formats consistently contributes to their team’s success and becomes a valuable asset in the ever-changing world of cricket.

Versatility allows players to make an impact in different formats, ensuring their importance in both domestic and international competitions.

Furthermore, mastering all formats makes a player more marketable, opening up opportunities in leagues and endorsements. Here are five cricketers from the current era who have excelled in all formats of the game:

1. Virat Kohli – India

Virat Kohli is not just a cricketer; he’s a batting phenomenon who has conquered Test matches, ODIs, and T20s. In Test cricket, he has 29 centuries, showcasing his technique and determination. In ODIs, he has scored 50 centuries with an average of over 58, proving his ability against fast bowlers. Kohli’s T20 performances are equally remarkable, with his adaptability in different situations, whether it’s facing swing, hitting sixes, or building an innings.

2. Pat Cummins – Australia

Pat Cummins is a rare talent who has excelled in all three formats of cricket with his pace, swing, and growing batting skills. In Test cricket, he has taken 263 wickets at an average of 22.4, showing his ability to perform in various conditions. Cummins has also been a leading wicket-taker in ODIs, with 141 wickets at an average of 28.7. In T20s, his raw pace and athleticism make him a formidable bowler, with 55 wickets in 50 matches.

3. Rohit Sharma – India

Rohit Sharma, known for his elegant batting and big scores, has established himself as one of the best modern-day batsmen in all formats of cricket. He overcame initial challenges in Test cricket to score 10 centuries, including a match-winning 141 against England in 2021. In ODIs, he holds the record for the highest individual score (264) and has 31 centuries. Rohit’s elegant stroke play and aggressive batting have also made him a force to reckon with in T20 cricket, with the most T20I centuries (5) to his name.

4. Babar Azam – Pakistan

Babar Azam is a versatile cricketer who excels in all three formats, displaying his artistic genius. He has scored 9 Test centuries, including a remarkable 196 against Australia in Karachi. In ODIs, he boasts an average of 56.7, ranking among the highest of all time, with 19 centuries to his name. Babar maintains his composure in T20s, blending classical strokes with innovative shots like scoops and ramps. He has scored 3 T20I centuries, showing his adaptability in the shortest format.

5. Kane Williamson – New Zealand

Kane Williamson is a rare gem in cricket, known for his consistency and leadership. In Test cricket, he averages over 50, displaying patience and excellent shot selection. In ODIs, he can switch gears effortlessly, from calculated innings to aggressive six-hitting, as seen in his 166 against Sri Lanka. Williamson maintains a strong presence in T20 cricket as well, with an average of 34, 18 fifties, and a strike rate of 123.6.

These five cricketers have not only excelled but have also left an indelible mark in all formats of the game, earning their place among the cricketing legends of our time.