Top 10 Old Indian Cricket Players
Here are the top 10 Legendary Indian Cricketers.
1. Kapil Dev
Kapil Dev, famously dubbed the "Haryana Hurricane," is one of India's legendary cricketers. He played a crucial role in India's 1983 Cricket World Cup victory. Kapil Dev began his career playing for Haryana in the Ranji Trophy before joining the Indian national team in 1978.
He made his Test debut against Pakistan in Faisalabad, scoring 131 runs and becoming the youngest debutant to score a century at 19. Kapil Dev was awarded the Rajiv Gandhi Khel Ratna in 2002 and the Padma Shri. He is the only player to have taken over 400 wickets in Test cricket while also scoring over 5,000 runs.
2. Sunil Gavaskar
Sunil Gavaskar, hailed as India's greatest opening batsman, made his debut in 1971 and soon established himself as one of the world's best. In his debut Test series against England, he scored 774 runs and went on to accumulate more than 10,000 runs in both Test and ODI cricket.
Gavaskar held the record for most Test centuries until Sachin Tendulkar surpassed him. He received the Col. CK Nayudu Lifetime Achievement Award in 2012 and remains one of the most respected figures in Indian cricket history.
3. Sourav Ganguly
Sourav Ganguly, often hailed as the "God of Indian cricket," has made immeasurable contributions to the sport. Known for his stylish and elegant batting, Ganguly was also a remarkable fielder and an inspirational captain. Under his leadership, Indian cricket saw significant successes.
In 2004, Ganguly was awarded the Padma Shri. He is currently the President of the Editorial Board with Wisden India and ranks as the fifth-highest run-scorer in ODI history.
4. Sachin Tendulkar
The "Little Master," Sachin Tendulkar, began his illustrious career at the age of 16. He holds numerous records, including 30,000 runs in international cricket and 100 international centuries. Tendulkar is often regarded as the greatest ODI batsman after Viv Richards.
Tendulkar was honored with the Bharat Ratna and inducted into the ICC Hall of Fame. His career spanned an incredible 24 years, with his final Test match played in 2013.
5. Anil Kumble
Anil Kumble, one of the world's top bowlers, is the third-highest wicket-taker in international cricket. Born in Bangalore, he made his Test debut in 1989 against Pakistan. Kumble played a key role in India's cricket successes, including the 2011 World Cup.
In 2005, he was awarded the Padma Shri. Kumble retired from international cricket in 2017, leaving behind a legacy of excellence in spin bowling.
6. M.S. Dhoni
M.S. Dhoni, celebrated for his calm demeanor and leadership, captained India to numerous victories, including the ICC World Twenty20 in 2007 and the ICC Cricket World Cup in 2011. Dhoni debuted for the Indian national team in 2004 and quickly became one of the most successful captains in cricket history.
Known as "Captain Cool," Dhoni has scored over 10,000 runs in both Test and ODI cricket and remains one of the most beloved figures in Indian sports.
7. Javagal Srinath
Javagal Srinath, born in Mysore, is renowned for his accurate bowling. He debuted for Karnataka in 1988 and joined the Indian national team in 1991. Srinath played over 200 Test matches and was a key player in India's 2011 World Cup-winning team.
Srinath is remembered as one of the highest wicket-takers in World Cup history and a crucial member of the Indian cricket team.
8. Virender Sehwag
Virender Sehwag, a legendary Indian cricketer, ranks among the richest cricketers worldwide. Known for his aggressive batting style, Sehwag has set numerous records and amassed a significant following. His net worth is estimated at around $40 million, and he has endorsed brands such as Reebok and Adidas.
Sehwag recently launched his own sportswear brand, "VS by Sehwag," further cementing his legacy in the sport.
9. Virat Kohli
Virat Kohli, one of the most iconic and successful cricketers, has left an indelible mark on the sport. Known for his aggressive batting and remarkable leadership, Kohli has numerous records and achievements. He has endorsed several major brands, adding to his popularity and financial success.
10. Rohit Sharma
Rohit Sharma, an exceptional T20 batsman, has been in phenomenal form in recent years. Known for his ability to score runs across the ground, Rohit has been a standout performer in the IPL, with numerous centuries and half-centuries.
Rohit's skill at manipulating the field and his consistent performance have established him as one of India's best T20 players.
Cricket enthusiasts can draw inspiration from these legendary players whose contributions have significantly shaped Indian cricket. Whether through their extraordinary batting, bowling, or leadership, each has left an unforgettable mark on the sport.