Introduction
Welcome to an exciting year in cricket! The year 2023 promises to be a thrilling season for cricket enthusiasts, with a lineup of extraordinary talent ready to take the field. In this blog post, we’ll introduce you to the best
1. Virat Kohli
Virat Kohli, often referred to as the “Run Machine,” is one of the most prolific batsmen in modern-day cricket. Hailing from India, Kohli has consistently demonstrated his prowess across all formats of the game.
Known for his exceptional batting technique and unwavering determination, Virat Kohli has shattered numerous records throughout his career. He is the fastest player to score 8,000, 9,000, 10,000, and 11,000 runs in One Day Internationals (ODIs). His ability to chase down targets and build innings under pressure has earned him the reputation of being a chase master.
Here’s a list of some of Virat Kohli’s remarkable achievements:
- ICC Cricketer of the Year: Kohli has been named the ICC Cricketer of the Year on multiple occasions, recognizing his consistent excellence.
- Centuries Galore: With over 70 international centuries, he stands among the highest century-makers in cricket history.
- Indian Premier League (IPL) Success: As the captain of Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB), Kohli has been a mainstay in the IPL and is known for his aggressive captaincy and impressive batting performances.
Virat Kohli’s dedication to fitness has also set new standards in cricket. He is a strong advocate for fitness and has inspired many budding cricketers to prioritize their physical health.
While Kohli stepped down as India’s T20I captain in 2021, he continues to lead the side in Tests and ODIs. His leadership and ability to lead by example make him an iconic figure in the cricketing world.
| Format | Matches | Runs | Average | Centuries |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tests | 95 | 7547 | 52.04 | 27 |
| ODIs | 254 | 12169 | 59.07 | 43 |
| T20Is | 90 | 3159 | 52.65 | 0 |
As we look ahead to 2023, cricket fans worldwide eagerly await Virat Kohli’s performances, hoping for more extraordinary feats and memorable moments from this cricketing legend.
2. Steve Smith
Steve Smith, the Australian batting maestro, is known for his unorthodox yet highly effective batting style. He has been a cornerstone of the Australian cricket team, consistently delivering exceptional performances.
Smith’s rise to cricketing stardom has been remarkable. He made his debut for the Australian national team in 2010 and quickly gained recognition for his unerring focus and incredible hand-eye coordination. Smith’s ability to play unconventional shots and manipulate the field has left bowlers puzzled and fans in awe.
Here are some key highlights from Steve Smith’s career:
- Ashes Dominance: Smith has been a thorn in the side of England during the Ashes series, where he has produced monumental runs and played pivotal roles in securing victories for Australia.
- ICC Awards: He has been named the ICC Cricketer of the Year multiple times, solidifying his status as one of the best in the world.
- Test Captaincy: Smith served as the captain of the Australian Test team and played a crucial role in the team’s resurgence after the ball-tampering scandal.
Smith’s Test batting average has consistently been among the highest in the world, making him a dependable force in the longest format of the game. His unflinching focus and ability to adapt to various conditions have earned him accolades from cricket pundits and fans alike.
| Format | Matches | Runs | Average | Centuries |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tests | 77 | 7540 | 61.80 | 27 |
| ODIs | 128 | 4162 | 42.46 | 11 |
| T20Is | 45 | 681 | 27.24 | 0 |
Steve Smith’s return to international cricket after a brief suspension due to the ball-tampering incident was eagerly awaited by fans worldwide. As we look forward to 2023, Steve Smith remains a player to watch, with his innovative stroke play and ability to turn the game in his team’s favor.
3. Kane Williamson
Kane Williamson, the captain of the New Zealand cricket team, is a name synonymous with grace, precision, and sportsmanship in the world of
Williamson’s cricketing journey began in Tauranga, New Zealand, and he quickly rose through the ranks due to his impeccable technique and the ability to play long innings. His calm demeanor on the field and off it has earned him respect and admiration from cricket fans worldwide.
Here are some key highlights from Kane Williamson’s illustrious career:
- Captaincy Success: Williamson led the New Zealand team to their first-ever ICC Cricket World Cup final in 2019, where they narrowly lost to England in a thrilling contest. His leadership has been instrumental in shaping the team’s success.
- Batting Prowess: Known for his consistency, Williamson has been a run machine in all formats of the game. He has a remarkable ability to anchor the innings and accelerate when needed.
- ICC Awards: He has received several ICC awards, including the Sir Garfield Sobers Trophy for ICC Cricketer of the Year.
Williamson’s ability to adapt to different conditions and oppositions makes him a prized asset for New Zealand. His Test match performances have been particularly noteworthy, where he has displayed tremendous patience and technique against the best bowlers in the world.
| Format | Matches | Runs | Average | Centuries |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tests | 84 | 7115 | 54.31 | 24 |
| ODIs | 151 | 6173 | 47.48 | 13 |
| T20Is | 72 | 1723 | 32.87 | 0 |
Kane Williamson’s impact on the game goes beyond his statistics; he represents the spirit of cricket and is a true ambassador for the sport. As we anticipate the cricketing action in 2023, Kane Williamson remains a player to watch for his artistry with the bat and leadership acumen.
4. Babar Azam
Babar Azam, the talented Pakistani batsman, is a rising star in international cricket known for his elegant stroke play and consistency at the crease. Hailing from Lahore, Pakistan, he has swiftly established himself as one of the finest contemporary batsmen.
Babar’s cricketing journey began at a young age, and he made his debut for the Pakistan national team in 2015. Since then, he has been a vital cog in Pakistan’s batting lineup across all formats.
Here are some key highlights from Babar Azam’s burgeoning career:
- ODI Excellence: Babar is often regarded as one of the best ODI batsmen in the world. He reached 1,000 runs in ODIs in just 21 innings, faster than any other Pakistani batsman.
- Captaincy Role: He was appointed as the captain of the Pakistan national team, showcasing his leadership abilities and composure.
- T20 Stardom: Babar has also excelled in T20 cricket, both in international matches and domestic T20 leagues, showcasing his adaptability across formats.
Babar Azam’s batting style is characterized by his grace, timing, and the ability to find gaps effortlessly. He has often been compared to modern greats for his ability to construct innings and build partnerships.
| Format | Matches | Runs | Average | Centuries |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tests | 29 | 2045 | 44.46 | 5 |
| ODIs | 80 | 3808 | 55.68 | 13 |
| T20Is | 45 | 1681 | 50.94 | 2 |
As we look ahead to the cricketing calendar in 2023, Babar Azam remains a player to watch for his exquisite batting skills and the potential to lead Pakistan to new heights in international cricket.
5. Joe Root
Joe Root, the captain of the England cricket team, is a world-class batsman known for his elegant style, exceptional technique, and unwavering commitment to his team’s cause. Root’s journey in international cricket has been nothing short of impressive.
Root made his debut for England in 2012 and quickly rose through the ranks due to his solid technique and ability to adapt to different formats of the game. He has been a crucial part of England’s batting lineup, especially in Test cricket.
Here are some noteworthy highlights from Joe Root’s cricketing career:
- Captaincy Stint: Root was appointed as the captain of the England Test team in 2017 and later took on the role of England’s ODI and T20I captain. His leadership has been instrumental in guiding England to important victories.
- The Fab Four: Root is often mentioned alongside Virat Kohli, Steve Smith, and Kane Williamson as one of the “Fab Four” of modern-day cricket, symbolizing the elite class of contemporary batsmen.
- Test Milestones: Root has consistently been among the leading run-scorers in Test cricket. He achieved the milestone of 8,000 Test runs in just 178 innings, making him one of the fastest to reach that mark.
Joe Root’s batting style is characterized by his ability to play both pace and spin with equal ease. He is known for his exceptional cover drives and the capability to accumulate runs under challenging conditions.
| Format | Matches | Runs | Average | Centuries |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tests | 105 | 9285 | 52.87 | 23 |
| ODIs | 148 | 6104 | 51.51 | 16 |
| T20Is | 32 | 893 | 35.72 | 0 |
As we look ahead to cricket in 2023, Joe Root continues to be a central figure in England’s cricketing ambitions. His batting prowess and leadership will be pivotal as England competes on the global stage.
6. Rashid Khan
Rashid Khan, the Afghan sensation, is a world-renowned leg-spinner and one of the most exciting talents in modern-day cricket. His remarkable rise from a war-torn country to cricket stardom is a story of determination and extraordinary skill.
Rashid made his international debut for Afghanistan in 2015 and quickly became a household name in cricketing circles due to his incredible spin bowling abilities and his unique, deceptive style.
Here are some key highlights from Rashid Khan’s remarkable cricketing career:
- T20 Superstar: Rashid has become one of the most sought-after T20 bowlers in the world, plying his trade in various T20 leagues globally, including the Indian Premier League (IPL).
- Record-Breaking Achievements: He became the youngest captain in the history of T20 internationals when he led Afghanistan at the age of 19. Rashid is also known for setting records as the fastest to reach 100 ODI wickets.
- Spin Wizardry: Rashid’s leg-spin and googly deliveries have bamboozled some of the best batsmen in the world. His ability to extract turn and bounce on different surfaces makes him a formidable opponent.
Rashid Khan’s rise to fame has not only inspired budding cricketers in Afghanistan but has also showcased the power of cricket to unite people and provide hope in challenging circumstances.
| Format | Matches | Wickets | Average | 5-Wicket Hauls |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tests | 5 | 23 | 21.73 | 2 |
| ODIs | 76 | 140 | 18.18 | 4 |
| T20Is | 51 | 95 | 12.62 | 2 |
As we look forward to the cricketing action in 2023, Rashid Khan remains a player to watch for his spin wizardry and his ability to turn matches in his team’s favor with his exceptional bowling skills.
7. Jasprit Bumrah
Jasprit Bumrah, the Indian speedster, is a pace sensation and one of the most feared fast bowlers in the world. His unique action and ability to deliver deadly yorkers make him a standout performer in international cricket.
Bumrah’s journey from a young cricketer in Ahmedabad, India, to a global cricketing icon has been nothing short of inspirational. He made his debut for the Indian cricket team in 2016 and quickly established himself as a key player due to his lethal pace and accuracy.
Here are some key highlights from Jasprit Bumrah’s extraordinary cricketing career:
- Precision Yorker Specialist: Bumrah is known for his pinpoint accuracy and the ability to deliver yorkers at will, making him a nightmare for batsmen in limited-overs cricket.
- Test Cricket Success: He has successfully translated his white-ball success into Test cricket, where he has been a match-winner for India with his ability to extract bounce and movement.
- Indian Premier League (IPL): Bumrah has been a vital part of the Mumbai Indians franchise in the IPL, playing a pivotal role in their championship victories.
Jasprit Bumrah’s action, characterized by his slinging arm and high-arm release, adds an element of unpredictability to his deliveries. He can generate extreme pace and movement, making him a prized asset for India.
| Format | Matches | Wickets | Average | 5-Wicket Hauls |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tests | 24 | 83 | 22.10 | 3 |
| ODIs | 67 | 108 | 25.33 | 1 |
| T20Is | 50 | 64 | 20.48 | 0 |
As we look ahead to the cricketing contests in 2023, Jasprit Bumrah remains a player to watch for his ability to dismantle batting lineups and play a decisive role in India’s quest for victory.
8. Shaheen Afridi
Shaheen Afridi, the Pakistani left-arm fast bowler, is a rising star in international cricket known for his intimidating pace, height, and the ability to generate movement both in the air and off the pitch. Hailing from Khyber Agency in Pakistan, Afridi’s cricketing journey is a testament to his raw talent and hard work.
Shaheen made his debut for the Pakistan national cricket team in 2018 and quickly made a name for himself with his consistent wicket-taking ability.
Here are some key highlights from Shaheen Afridi’s promising cricketing career:
- Rising Fast Bowling Sensation: Afridi has emerged as one of the most promising fast bowlers in world cricket. His ability to bowl consistently at high speeds and extract bounce from the pitch has troubled many top-order batsmen.
- Cricket World Cup Success: He played a crucial role in Pakistan’s campaign during the ICC Cricket World Cup 2019, finishing as Pakistan’s highest wicket-taker in the tournament.
- T20 Franchise Leagues: Shaheen Afridi’s talent has also been recognized in T20 leagues around the world, including the Pakistan Super League (PSL), where he has consistently delivered impressive performances.
Shaheen Afridi’s height and left-arm angle provide him with a natural advantage, and he has honed his skills to become a potent force in both Test and limited-overs cricket.
| Format | Matches | Wickets | Average | 5-Wicket Hauls |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tests | 19 | 77 | 24.15 | 3 |
| ODIs | 35 | 71 | 28.18 | 2 |
| T20Is | 26 | 40 | 20.50 | 1 |
As we look forward to the future of cricket, Shaheen Afridi’s name shines brightly as a young fast bowler with the potential to become one of the best in the world. His impressive performances and hunger for wickets make him a player to watch in the years to come.
9. Ellyse Perry
Ellyse Perry, the Australian all-rounder, is a cricketing sensation who has redefined the role of women in cricket. Her incredible skills with both bat and ball make her one of the most celebrated female cricketers in the world. Perry’s journey from a young prodigy to a global cricket icon is nothing short of inspirational.
Perry made her debut for the Australian women’s cricket team at the age of 16, displaying her prodigious talent. Since then, she has consistently delivered match-winning performances and has become a trailblazer for women’s cricket.
Here are some key highlights from Ellyse Perry’s illustrious cricketing career:
- All-Round Excellence: Perry is known for her extraordinary ability to contribute with both bat and ball. She is equally proficient as a fast-medium bowler and a stylish middle-order batswoman.
- World Cup Triumphs: She has been a part of the Australian team that has won multiple ICC Women’s Cricket World Cups, showcasing her ability to perform on the grandest stages.
- Record-Breaking Feats: Perry holds several records, including the highest individual score in Women’s T20 World Cup history (notching up 116* against Bangladesh in 2014).
Ellyse Perry’s dedication to the game and her exceptional fitness levels set new standards in women’s cricket. She is not only a superb athlete but also a role model for aspiring female cricketers worldwide.
| Format | Matches | Runs | Wickets | Batting Average | Bowling Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tests | 8 | 594 | 31 | 41.40 | 19.74 |
| ODIs | 120 | 3283 | 152 | 51.29 | 24.53 |
| T20Is | 119 | 1159 | 114 | 28.97 | 19.70 |
Ellyse Perry’s achievements in cricket are a testament to her talent and dedication. As we continue to celebrate women’s cricket, she remains an iconic figure who has paved the way for future generations of female cricketers.
10. Smriti Mandhana
Smriti Mandhana, the Indian cricket sensation, has been a driving force in women’s cricket with her stylish left-handed batting and consistent performances. Hailing from Sangli, Maharashtra, Mandhana’s cricketing journey has been marked by her elegance at the crease and her ability to dominate opposition bowlers.
Mandhana made her debut for the Indian women’s cricket team in 2013, and she quickly established herself as one of the leading run-scorers in women’s international cricket.
Here are some key highlights from Smriti Mandhana’s exceptional cricketing career:
- Stylish Left-Handed Batting: Mandhana’s classical left-handed strokes and her ability to find gaps consistently make her one of the most exciting batters to watch in women’s cricket.
- ICC Awards: She has received several accolades, including the Rachael Heyhoe-Flint Award for the ICC Women’s Cricketer of the Year in 2019.
- ODI Century: Mandhana became the second-fastest Indian woman to score 1,000 runs in ODIs and has numerous centuries to her name.
Smriti Mandhana’s impact extends beyond her on-field performances. She has inspired a generation of young girls to take up cricket and has been a vocal advocate for women’s sports empowerment.
| Format | Matches | Runs | Average | Centuries |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tests | 10 | 736 | 73.60 | 1 |
| ODIs | 51 | 2025 | 43.47 | 4 |
| T20Is | 84 | 1716 | 25.09 | 2 |
As we look ahead to the growth of women’s cricket, Smriti Mandhana remains a beacon of excellence and a player to watch for her elegant batting and her role in elevating the status of women’s cricket on the global stage.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions cricket enthusiasts often ask about the best cricket players to watch in 2023:
1. Who are the top batsmen to watch in 2023?
In 2023, cricket fans can look forward to some extraordinary batting performances from players like Virat Kohli, Joe Root, Babar Azam, and Steve Smith. These players have consistently displayed their exceptional skills on the field and are expected to shine in the upcoming cricket events.
2. Which bowlers are expected to dominate the cricketing scene in 2023?
Fast bowlers like Jasprit Bumrah, Pat Cummins, and Kagiso Rabada continue to be a force to reckon with in the cricketing world. Additionally, spin maestros such as Rashid Khan, Yuzvendra Chahal, and Adil Rashid are expected to make a significant impact with their variations and wicket-taking abilities.
3. Who are the rising stars in the cricketing arena?
Young talents like Shubman Gill, Prithvi Shaw, and Shaheen Afridi are making waves in the cricketing world. Their impressive performances in domestic and international cricket have caught the attention of fans and experts alike. Keep an eye on these players as they have the potential to become future cricketing legends.
4. Which teams have standout players in 2023?
Teams like India, Australia, England, and New Zealand have star-studded lineups with world-class players. India boasts a formidable batting lineup, Australia is known for its strong pace attack, England has versatile players who excel in all formats, and New Zealand showcases exceptional teamwork and spirit on the field.
5. What are the key events to watch out for in 2023?
Cricket fans can look forward to major events like the ICC Cricket World Cup, T20 World Cup, and various bilateral series featuring top cricketing nations. These tournaments not only provide thrilling matches but also offer a platform for players to showcase their skills on the global stage.
Stay updated with the latest cricket news and player performances on WhatCricket.com to enjoy an immersive cricketing experience throughout 2023.
Conclusion
As we come to the end of 2023, the cricket world continues to enthral fans with breathtaking performances, nail-biting matches, and incredible displays of skill. The year has been a rollercoaster ride for cricket enthusiasts, with players pushing their limits and teams engaging in fierce battles on the field.
In this blog post, we explored some of the best cricket players to watch in 2023. From outstanding batsmen who consistently scored centuries to bowlers with lethal precision, the cricketing world showcased its remarkable talent pool. We delved into the achievements of these players, highlighting their contributions to their respective teams and the sport as a whole.
We also discussed rising stars who have been making headlines with their exceptional skills, hinting at a promising future for the cricketing world. These young talents have shown immense potential and determination, becoming the ones to watch out for in the upcoming years.
Additionally, we examined notable teams and their key players, providing insights into the dynamics of international and domestic cricket. Understanding the strengths and weaknesses of these teams is essential for fans who want to follow the sport closely.
Looking ahead, 2023 promises more excitement with upcoming cricket events that will capture the attention of fans worldwide. Whether it’s high-stakes tournaments, thrilling test matches, or exciting T20 leagues, cricket enthusiasts can anticipate a calendar filled with memorable moments.
For those who are new to cricket or looking to enhance their knowledge, we answered frequently asked questions, providing clarity on various aspects of the sport. From rules and regulations to player statistics, we aimed to create a comprehensive resource for all cricket lovers.
As we bid farewell to 2023, it’s clear that cricket continues to unite people across the globe, transcending boundaries and cultures. The passion and dedication of players, the unwavering support of fans, and the spirit of competition make cricket not just a sport, but a way of life for millions.
So, whether you’re cheering for your favorite team, admiring the elegance of a cover drive, or marveling at a perfect yorker, let’s celebrate the spirit of cricket and eagerly anticipate the remarkable moments that the sport will bring in the years to come.
Thank you for joining us on this journey through the best cricket players of 2023. Here’s to another year of cricketing excellence!