Have you ever wondered who ruled the cricketing haven during the 2010s? Was it the bowler casting captivating spells that would make Merlin blush or the batsman crafting runs with artistic finesse? We all have our favorites, but selecting the best cricketers of the decade is like picking one star from a sky full of them. But fear not, cricket enthusiasts!
Join us as we set out on a journey to discover the 15 players who redefine the game. We’ll delve into their brilliance, grit, and the moments that engraved their names in the history of cricketing legends.
1. Virat Kohli (India)
Kohli ruled in the 2010s as a batting emperor. his fiery strokes lit up records, left bowlers in awe, and captivated fans. With 20,960 runs, 70 towering centuries, and a sky-high average, his reign stood unmatched. Yet, Kohli’s mastery went beyond numbers. Kohli, the fearless master of chases, redefines aggression with his swagger. his cover drives, like strokes of genius, created masterpieces on the cricket pitch.
2. Steve Smith (Australia)
Steve Smith, the unorthodox master, played the role of a cricketing Rubik’s Cube in the 2010s. once laughed at, his unorthodox technique became a weapon of mass destruction. His 14,290 international runs and 28 centuries surpassed even Bradman’s influence. He showcased his mental strength with his twin centuries in the 2019 Ashes series. Doubters silenced! his distinctive style became his signature.
3. Kane Williamson (New Zealand)
A symbol of grace and class, Williamson’s refined strokeplay with clever captaincy. His 11,506 runs and 23 centuries underscore his unwavering consistency and adaptability. Chasing storms for New Zealand, Kane stayed cool as a cucumber. His calm amid the chaos calmed a nation’s cricket nerves. No fancy show, only smart moves, Kane’s smarts brought Black Caps Test glory. He guided them to the top of the Test world, crowned with the WTC title!
4. Joe Root (England)
Root, England’s batting rock, etched his name in cricket history. His steady bat, like a sculptor’s chisel, crafted runs with determination. With 12,953 runs and 44 centuries, his skill and mental strength radiated. From rescuing innings with hundreds to late flourishes, Root embodied quiet resilience. He even led England to their first World Cup win in 50 years! Root’s anchoring and all-situation batting secure him as the decade’s fourth legend.
5. AB de Villiers (South Africa)
AB de Villiers, the “Mr. 360” of the 2010s, defied definition with his spectrum of cricketing genius. Whether playing the role of an artist sculpting centuries, a magician conjuring impossible boundaries, or a fearless warrior leading his team, he showcased a versatile brilliance. His mind-blowing strike rate of 111.82 in ODIs paints a picture of uncontrolled chaos, while his 24,017 international runs suggest an undisclosed font of consistency. Though some might surpass his numbers, de Villiers’ impact was undeniable.
6. Ravindra Jadeja (India)
Ravindra Jadeja, known as the ‘Sir Jaddu’ of the 2010s. He stood as a versatile gem in India’s cricketing treasure trove. Surpassing 5,329 runs and 323 wickets, he proved to be a chameleon, seamlessly adapting to any role. His left-arm spin, adorned with subtle variations, bamboozled batsmen. Meanwhile, his potent batting in the lower order rescued India countless times. Jadeja evolved into the ultimate “impact player.” He rescued India from challenging situations with bold catches and math-winning performances.
7. Mitchell Starc (Australia)
Mitchell Starc is the thunder god of the 2010s. he released bolts of lighting that redefine fast bowling. His left-arm rockets secured an impressive 430 international wickets at an average of 22.92. This includes a record-breaking performance of 7-48, establishing him as the decade’s premier fast bowler. His bowling was like a wild storm, destroying batters and building up to epic moments. Remember his amazing hat-trick against New Zealand in the 2015 World Cup final? That’s a memory cricket fans will never forget.
8. James Anderson (England)
James Anderson, the ageless maestro of swing bowling, etched his name into cricketing history in the 2010s. His 646 international wickets are a testament to unwavering precision and control. His mastery of reverse and conventional swing was an artist’s brush, sketching batsman into the corner of despair. He wasn’t the fastest, but he knew every inch of the pitch. Even at the end of his career, he never stopped hunting for wickets.
9. Rashid Khan (Afghanistan)
From a land where cricket used to be just a dream, Rashid Khan swirled his way into the decade’s top ten. This youthful magician from Afghanistan, amazed batsman with his tricky googly and mesmerizing leg-spin. He took 438 international wickets, confusing even the best players with his tricky deliveries. Though small in size, Rashid has a huge heart. He bowls with relentless energy and always has a smile that lit up the field.
10. Ellyse Perry (Australia)
Ellyse Perry, the Aussie all-rounder queen, was really good at both bowling and batting! She made history by becoming the first player ever to score 1,000 runs and take 100 wickets in T20 cricket. She led Australia to win two World Cups which solidified her legendary status. No wonder she is one of the best cricketers of the decade. This super-strong player led her team to victories, making her a true legend and an inspiration to all cricket players, whether they are boys or girls!
11. Lasith Malinga (Sri Lanka)
Lasith Malinga, the sling-it-up bowler from Sri Lanka, made a big mark in the last ten years with his unique style and deadly yorkers. This unorthodox bowler swung his arm around like a windmill. He confused batsmen with his slow deliveries and clever changes of pace. His remarkable skill and impact were evident in his 398 wickets, including a memorable four-in-four spell. He was an entertainer, a showman, making the field lively with his cool hair flicks and infectious energy.
12. Ben Stokes (England)
Ben Stokes, the ultimate cricket hero from England, surges onto the list as the twelfth legend. This all-rounder wasn’t just about hitting big shots and making fast throws. He was a fighter, a game-changer who could shift the momentum with his bat, ball, or even a Superman-like catch. Remember that World Cup final? He pulled off a miracle, bringing England to a victory with his fearless batting. Ben Stokes, the twelfth legend, proves that cricket revolves around passion, resilience, and never giving up!
13. Babar Azam (Pakistan)
From the land of tasty curries and passionate fans, Babar Azam steps onto the list as the thirteenth legend. This Pakistani cricketer paints the fields with elegant moves, crafting centuries akin to beautiful artwork. He puts together runs with care and precision, averaging over 50 in Tests. His impressive total of 7,643 runs and 23 centuries hints at a bright future ahead. He is a true batting legend of the decade and a hero adored by millions in Pakistan.
14. Mitchell Marsh (Australia)
Mitchell Marsh is a dynamic all-rounder from down under. This Aussie cricketer is known for his powerful hitting and fast bowling. Despite occasional injuries, Marsh, when in good health, becomes a formidable opponent. His talent shines in match-winning moments, like his crucial innings in the 2023 World Cup finale. With a total of 3,111 runs, 215 wickets, and World Cup contributions, Marsh has proven his versatility.
15. Smriti Mandhana (India)
Smriti Mandhana is known as the “Shafali Verma of power hitters”. This Indian cricketer smashes sixes, bringing elegance and aggression to women’s cricket. Who can forget her record-breaking fastest fifty? She dismantles bowling attacks with powerful drives, scoring tons of runs. Her 5,498 runs and 20 centuries underscore her talent and leadership potential. She proves that girls can dominate the cricket field as well.
Wrap Up
And there you have it, everyone – the 15 best cricketers of the decade! In their own right, each champion has captivated us with their feats. They have left an indelible mark on the game. let’s raise a toast to these legends who shaped the game with unmatched talent and unwavering determination. As the next chapter unfolds, remember, that the echoes of their greatness will forever resonate in the cheers of the crowd.
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