15 Most Famous Indian Cricket Players of All Time

15 Most Famous Indian Cricket Players of All Time

*Originally published by Shelmith Njeru on October 2022 and Updated by Vanessa R in September 2023. Updated again in February 2024 by Hamisi

Cricket was first introduced in India in 1721. The first match ever was between players from the Indian cities of Calcutta and Madras in 1864.

Today, India has the most successful cricket team in the world with two International Cricket Council (ICC) Champion Trophies and 2 ICC World Cups. India is said to host the 13^th edition of the Cricket World Cup in November 2023.

Below are some of the most influential cricket players in India.

1. Rahul David

Rahul David, also referred to as The Wall, is the head coach for Indian National Team. He was born in 1973 in Indore, the most populous city in Madhya Pradesh. He is known for his outstanding batting skills and is regarded as one of the greatest batsmen in cricket history.

David led the men’s under-19 team to victory in the 2018 Cricket World Cup. In 2013, he was awarded the Padma Bhushan for his influence in cricket. Rahul is the fourth-highest run scorer in Test Cricket as of 2022.

2. Virat Kohli

Virat Kohli at the Sydney Cricket Grounds. Photo By NAPARAZZI –Wikimedia Commons

Virat Kohli is the right-handed batsman of the Indian Premier League team Royal Challengers Bangalore. He captained the India team for 9 years (2013-2022) and is one of the most successful Indian Test captains having won 40 out of 68 matches.

Kohli competed in his first test match in 2011. 2 years later he was named first on the ICC One Day International (ODI) batsmen listing. In 2021, he broke Sachin Tendulkar’s record and became the fastest player to get 23,000 international runs

3. Virender Sehwag

Virender Sehwag is one of the most destructive batsmen of all time. The cricketer represented India for 4 years before his retirement. His outstanding performances earned him several awards and international recognition by cricket bodies.

Early on in his career, Sehwag was compared to Sachin Tendulkar due to his batting technique. He was the first Indian awarded the Wisden Leading Cricketer in the World. He is the highest-scoring test cricketer in India and one of two layers to score a double hundred in ODI.

4. Sachin Tendulkar

Pstage stamp of Sachin Tendulkar in 200th Test match. Photo By India Post, Government of India – Wikimedia Commons

Sachin Ramesh Tendulkar is the all-time highest run-scorer in Test Format and ODI. Indians occasionally refer to him as The God of Cricket.  He was a key player in India’s national team from 1989 – 2013.

Sachin is the first player in World Cup cricket to score 2,000 runs and hit the most centuries. He was most recently awarded the 2020 Laureus World Sports Award for the Best Sporting Moment.

Aside from tournament awards, Sachin was commemorated in the 2013 Indian postage stamps. The film God of Cricket (2021) was inspired by his career as a cricket player.

5. Sunil Gavaskar

Sunvil Gavaskar. Photo By Bollywood Hungama –Wikimedia Commons

Sunil Gavaskar began playing cricket in high school and was named India’s Best Schoolboy Cricketer of Year in 1966.  His skill in fast bowling was unmatched and earned him recognition as an outstanding batsman.  

Sunil debuted his first test run in 1971 and led India to its first-ever victory over the West Indies. He was the first and only Indian to score a century and double century within the same match.

After retirement, Sunil took his love for cricket into tv. He was a commentator and became the first Indian to lecture in the MCC Spirit of Cricket Cowdrey.

6. Kapil Dev

Kapil D. Ramlal was a former cricket bowler and middle-order batsman. He led India to victory in the 1983 World Championship and became the youngest captain to win the Cricket World cup.

Kapil retired from cricket in 1994 and was appointed coach of the National team in 1999. He was the first chancellor of the Sport University of Haryana. He wrote the book Cricket My Style (1985) highlighting his career in the sport as a captain and batsman.

7. Mahendra Singh Dhoni

Mahendra Singh Dhoni, also known as MS Dhoni, is a former captain and professional cricketer. He was spotted by Keshav Ranja, a cricket coach when he was a goalkeeper during football matches in school.

Singh first played professional cricket after being selected by the Cricket Association Vice President to participate in the Central Coal Fields Limited (CCL) Team. He has a record for playing the most international cricket matches as team captain.

Singh retired from international cricket in 2020 but continues to play in the Indian Premier League.

8. Yuvraj Singh

Yuvraj Singh bowling. Photo By Chubby Chandru – Wikimedia Commons

Yuvraj Singh is a retired batsman and bowler from Chandigarh. When he was a teenager, he participated in tennis and roller skating but his parents opted to direct his passion for sports into cricket. His father, Yograj Singh, was a former cricketer and played for India in the late 1900s.

Singh was among 25 players to be awarded India’s second highest sporting award, Arjuna Award, for outstanding performance in Sports and Games in 2012. Although he retired in 2019, his aspiration of participating in the 2020 Indian Premier League was turned down by the Indian cricket board.

9. Rohit Sharma

Rohit S. Gurunath is the captain of the national cricket team of India. He is the only player to have scored three double centuries and have the best individual score in ODI matches.

Sharma’s batting skills came into recognition during the 2005 Deodhar Trophy. He played as an open batsman and middle-order batsman in cricket tournaments. He was awarded the Arjuna Award (2015) and Khel Ratna Award (2020) for his excellent performance in cricket.

10. Anil Kumble

Anil Kumble of India in action. Photo By lensbug.chandru – Wikimedia Commons

Anil Kumble is a retired cricketer and former coach of the Indian Cricket Team (June 2016 to June 2017). He is well known for his leg spins and was nicknamed Jumbo because of his swift deliveries.

Kumble’s interest in cricket grew from watching national players such as B.S Chandrasekhar. He made his first cricket debut at the age of 18 and was selected to play against Pakistan in the Under 19s championship.

Anil is the most successful Indian bowler with a record of 40,850 balls in his entire test career. As of 2022, he was named the fourth-highest wicket-taker of all time.

11. Vijay Hazare

Georges Biard, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Cricket player Vijay Samuel Hazare was from the state of Maharashtra and lived from 11 March 1915 to 18 December 2004. From 1951 and 1953, he led the Indian cricket team in 14 games. Together with Vijay Merchant, he was one of the best Indian batsmen of that time. He led India to its first-ever Test cricket win (and the only victory under his captaincy) in 1951–52 against the England cricket team at Madras, winning by an innings and eight runs in a match that started on the day that King George VI passed away, in the nation’s 25th Test match, nearly 20 years after India was granted Test status.

12. Rahul Dravid

Rahul Dravid, one of the greatest batsmen in cricket history, was a former Indian cricketer and captain who was born on January 11, 1973. The Wall, as he is affectionately known, was rated one of the top five cricketers of the year by Wisden Cricketers’ Almanack in 2000. In 2004, he was honoured with the Player of the Year and Test Player of the Year trophies at the first ICC awards event. He gave the inaugural Bradman Oration in Canberra in December 2011 as the first cricketer from a country other than Australia.

Dravid is only the second Indian player, after Tendulkar, to score 10,000 runs in both Tests and ODIs. As of October 2012, he is the fourth-highest run scorer in Test cricket, behind Sachin Tendulkar, Ricky Ponting, and Jacques Kallis. He became the first and only player to date to score a century in each of the ten nations that play Test cricket in 2004, after reaching his century against Bangladesh in Chittagong. He now holds the record for taking the most catches in Test cricket by a player (other than a wicket keeper) with 210.

13. Sourav Ganguly

Dee03, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Sourav Chandidas Ganguly, also known as Dada, is a former captain of the Indian national cricket team and a cricket player from India. He was born on July 8, 1972. He currently works for Wisden India as the president of the editorial board and a cricket commentator. He is recognised as one of India’s most successful captains in recent memory.

He started out by playing on teams for his school and the state. The third person, after Sachin Tendulkar and Inzamam Ul Haq, to attain the milestone of 10,000 runs, he now holds the fifth-highest total in ODI history.

14. Suresh Raina

Bollywood Hungama, CC BY 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Indian cricketer Suresh Kumar Raina was born in Rainawari, Srinagar, Jammu & Kashmir, on November 27, 1986. He bats in the middle of the order with his left hand and occasionally bowls off-spin. In all forms of domestic cricket, he represents Uttar Pradesh, and in the Indian Premier League, he serves as the vice-captain of Chennai Super Kings.

The second-youngest player to lead India as captain, he has also led the cricket team of India. He is the only Indian to have scored a century in each of the game’s three formats. He has also taken the most catches and scored the most runs in the IPL.

15. Gautam Gambhir

Gautam Gambhir. Blnguyen, CC BY-SA 2.5, via Wikimedia Commons

Indian cricketer Gautam Gambhir, born on October 14, 1981, competes internationally. In addition to leading Kolkata Knight Riders in the Indian Premier League, he is a left-handed opening batsman who plays for Delhi in domestic cricket (IPL). In 2003, he played in his maiden One Day International (ODI) match against Bangladesh.

The following year, he faced Australia in his first Test match. From late 2010 and late 2011, he led the Indian side in six ODIs, which India won all six times. He was crucial to India’s victories in the World Twenty20 finals in 2007 (75 from 54 balls) and in the 2011 Cricket World Cup (97 from 122 balls).

20 Greatest Moments in Cricket

Alright fellow cricket enthusiasts, get ready to embark on an exhilarating journey through the hallowed moments that define the rich tapestry of our beloved sport. As we delve into the annals of cricketing history, I’ll be your guide through the heart-stopping drama, breathtaking displays of skill, and iconic moments that have left an indelible mark on the game. From legendary innings that defy belief to nail-biting finishes that keep us on the edge of our seats, each of these moments is a testament to the passion, skill, and spirit that make cricket the greatest game on earth. So, grab your favorite jersey, settle into your seat, and prepare to relive the magic of the 20 greatest moments in cricket—moments that have shaped the sport and captured the imaginations of fans around the world.

1.Don Bradman’s Test Batting Average of 99.94

Don Bradman. State Library of South Australia from Australia, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

In the illustrious annals of cricket, Don Bradman’s Test batting average of 99.94 stands as an awe-inspiring monument to excellence and mastery. With unparalleled skill and determination, the legendary Australian batsman etched his name into the fabric of sporting history, mesmerizing fans around the world with his unparalleled feats at the crease. Picture the hushed anticipation in packed stadiums as Bradman strode to the wicket, his every stroke a symphony of precision and timing that left bowlers trembling in his wake. With each majestic innings, he elevated the art of batting to new heights, setting a benchmark of greatness that remains untouched to this day. In the pantheon of cricketing legends, Bradman’s average shines as a beacon of inspiration, a testament to the boundless possibilities of human achievement in the timeless pursuit of sporting glory.

2. India Winning the 1983 World Cup

In a seismic shift that reverberated across the cricketing world, India’s triumph in the 1983 World Cup shattered all expectations and catapulted the nation into the pantheon of cricketing giants. Against all odds, a team of underdogs defied the skeptics and scripted a fairytale victory that captured the hearts and imaginations of millions. Picture the euphoria that swept across the nation as Kapil Dev and his men lifted the coveted trophy, their triumph igniting a fervent passion for cricket that transcended boundaries and united a diverse nation in jubilant celebration. With each stunning upset and exhilarating moment of brilliance, India’s victory in 1983 not only etched its name in cricketing lore but also sparked a revolution that propelled the sport to unprecedented heights of popularity and adoration in the cricket-crazy nation.

3.  The Origins of the Legendary Cricket Rivalry Between England and Australia, Starting in 1882

Embark on a journey through time to witness the birth of one of cricket’s most iconic rivalries—the Ashes. Born in the crucible of sporting passion in 1882, this legendary battle between England and Australia has captivated the imagination of cricket enthusiasts for over a century. Picture the intense drama unfolding on the lush green fields, as fierce competitors clash in a spectacle of skill, strategy, and sheer determination. From the nerve-wracking tension of each delivery to the thunderous roar of the crowds, every moment of the Ashes series is steeped in history and tradition, a testament to the enduring legacy of two cricketing powerhouses locked in an eternal struggle for supremacy. As the ashes of rivalry smolder and the spirit of competition burns brighter than ever, the Ashes series continues to weave its spellbinding magic, uniting nations in a shared love for the sport and its timeless traditions.

4. Controversial Bodyline Bowling Tactics by England Led to Changes in the Game’s Laws

Step into the tumultuous world of cricket‘s Bodyline Series of 1932/33, a gripping saga of controversy and transformation that forever altered the fabric of the game. England’s audacious use of aggressive Bodyline bowling tactics, targeting the batsmen with menacing bouncers aimed at their bodies, ignited a firestorm of debate and outrage. Picture the tension-filled matches, as batsmen faced a barrage of ferocious deliveries, their bravery and resilience tested to the limit. In response to the uproar, cricket’s laws underwent a dramatic overhaul, with new regulations implemented to curb the dangerous tactics and preserve the spirit of the sport. As the dust settled and the echoes of controversy faded, the Bodyline Series left an indelible mark on cricketing history, serving as a poignant reminder of the enduring struggle between innovation and tradition in the ever-evolving world of sports.

5. Jim Laker Taking 19 Wickets in a Test

Old TraffordScanned from a book., Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons.

In the summer of 1956, cricket history was etched in the hallowed grounds of Old Trafford as Jim Laker unleashed a bowling masterclass for the ages. With unparalleled skill and steely resolve, the English spinner mesmerized the cricketing world, capturing a staggering 19 wickets in a single Test match against arch-rivals Australia. Picture the relentless precision of Laker’s deliveries, as he bamboozled batsmen with cunning spin and guile, leaving a trail of wickets in his wake. From the electric atmosphere of the stadium to the feverish excitement gripping fans around the globe, Laker’s monumental achievement transcended mere statistics, embodying the essence of sporting greatness. Even decades later, his record-breaking feat remains a beacon of inspiration, a testament to the unwavering spirit of determination and excellence that defines cricket’s most storied moments.

6. First ODI Cricket Match

The first One Day International (ODI) match in the 1970s, a groundbreaking moment that forever changed the landscape of the sport. Picture the buzz of anticipation as teams took to the field with a newfound sense of urgency and strategy, armed with the knowledge that every ball counted in the race against time. From the thunderous roar of the crowd to the electrifying tension on the pitch, the debut of limited overs cricket ignited a revolution in cricketing tactics and entertainment. With its fast-paced action and nail-biting finishes, the ODI format captured the imagination of fans around the world, transforming cricket into a thrilling spectacle that continues to captivate audiences with its dynamic blend of skill, strategy, and sheer excitement.

7. An Explosive Moment as Yuvraj Hit 6 Consecutive Sixes Off Stuart Broad at WT20 2007

Yuvraj.. Blnguyen, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

The ICC World Twenty20 in 2007, where cricketing history was rewritten in a breathtaking display of power and precision by Yuvraj Singh. In a jaw-dropping feat of sheer brilliance, the Indian maestro unleashed an unstoppable onslaught, smashing six consecutive sixes off the hapless Stuart Broad, sending shockwaves through the stadium and cricketing world alike. Picture the explosive energy crackling in the air as each thunderous strike soared into the stands with unstoppable force, leaving spectators gasping in disbelief and opponents trembling in awe. With each mighty swing of the bat, Yuvraj etched his name into the annals of cricketing folklore, his indomitable spirit and unwavering resolve igniting a firestorm of passion and excitement that reverberated far beyond the boundaries of the pitch.

8. Brian Lara Set the Record for Highest Innings in Tests with 400* for West Indies in 2004

Brian Lara. Ukexpat, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

In the sun-drenched cricket pitch in Antigua, 2004, as Brian Lara, the maestro of the willow, etched his name into the annals of cricketing immortality with a monumental feat of batting brilliance. With unwavering focus and unparalleled skill, Lara embarked on a breathtaking journey to rewrite the record books, unleashing a mesmerizing display of stroke play that left the opposition bewildered and the crowd in awe. In a marathon innings lasting over two days, Lara’s blade carved history as he soared to an unprecedented 400 not out, shattering records and redefining the boundaries of possibility in Test cricket. With each majestic shot, Lara painted a masterpiece of resilience and determination, his legacy forever enshrined as a testament to the enduring spirit of cricketing greatness.

9. Shane Warne’s ‘Ball of the Century’

Shane Warne. Tourism Victoria from Australia, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

The hallowed grounds of Old Trafford in 1993, where cricketing history was reshaped by the wizardry of Shane Warne, the maestro of spin. With a flick of his wrist and a twirl of the ball, Warne unleashed his first delivery in Ashes cricket, a mesmerizing leg-break that danced and dipped like a phantom in the air. Picture the stunned silence that fell over the stadium as Mike Gatting, the English stalwart, was left spellbound, his off-stump shattered in a moment of sheer magic. In a breathtaking display of skill and artistry, Warne’s ‘Ball of the Century’ captivated the cricketing world, leaving fans and pundits alike in awe of his unparalleled mastery of spin bowling. With one delivery, Warne etched his name into the annals of cricketing folklore, forever immortalizing himself as a true legend of the game.

10. India’s Epic Comeback Victory After Following on Against Australia at Eden Gardens

Relive the spine-tingling drama of Kolkata 2001, where cricketing history was rewritten in an epic showdown between India and Australia at the iconic Eden Gardens. Facing a daunting deficit, India found themselves forced to follow on against the mighty Aussies, their backs against the wall in a seemingly insurmountable challenge. Yet, fueled by an unwavering spirit and the deafening roar of a passionate crowd, the Indian team embarked on a miraculous journey of redemption. Picture the exhilarating defiance of VVS Laxman and Rahul Dravid, who forged an extraordinary partnership that defied belief and turned the tide of the match in India’s favor. In an unforgettable display of courage and resilience, India staged a miraculous comeback, scripting a fairytale victory that will forever be etched in the annals of cricketing folklore as one of the greatest Test matches of all time.

11. West Indies Dominance in 70s & 80s

Clive Lloyd. Bollywood Hungama, CC BY 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

The golden era of cricketing dominance as the West Indies, a juggernaut of power and skill, ruled the cricketing world with an iron grip throughout the 1970s and 1980s. Under the charismatic leadership of Clive Lloyd and propelled by the batting prowess of legends like Viv Richards, Gordon Greenidge, and Desmond Haynes, the Caribbean kings forged an unstoppable dynasty that struck fear into the hearts of opponents. Picture the thunderous pace of their fearsome fast bowlers, led by the incomparable Malcolm Marshall, Michael Holding, and Joel Garner, as they unleashed a relentless barrage of bouncers and yorkers that left batsmen trembling in their wake. In a whirlwind of passion and pride, the West Indies dominated cricket with an unrivaled blend of power, flair, and swagger, etching their names into the annals of cricketing history as true champions of the game.

12. First T20 World Cup

The inaugural T20 World Cup in 2007, a groundbreaking tournament that captivated fans and revolutionized the sport. Bursting onto the scene with a dazzling display of power-hitting, lightning-quick fielding, and nail-biting finishes, T20 cricket captured the imagination of cricket enthusiasts worldwide from its very inception. Picture the electrifying atmosphere in the stadiums as teams clashed in high-octane matches filled with drama and excitement. With breathtaking performances and unexpected upsets, the T20 World Cup proved to be an instant hit, propelling cricket into a new era of fast-paced action and entertainment. From last-ball thrillers to monumental sixes that sailed into the stands, the tournament showcased the boundless excitement and unpredictability of T20 cricket, forever altering the landscape of the sport and captivating fans with its irresistible charm.

13. Sachin Tendulkar’s 100 International Centuries

Sachin Tendulkar.Flying Cloud from Australia, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Sachin Tendulkar, the Master Blaster, etches his name in the annals of sporting greatness with an unprecedented feat of longevity and consistency. With unparalleled skill and unwavering determination, Tendulkar embarked on a remarkable odyssey spanning decades, as he relentlessly pursued the elusive milestone of 100 international centuries. Picture the electrifying tension and fervent anticipation that gripped stadiums around the world with each masterful stroke of his bat, as Tendulkar shattered records and defied the odds time and again. From the thunderous applause of adoring fans to the reverent hush that fell over cricketing arenas, Tendulkar’s century of centuries transcended mere statistics, embodying the enduring spirit of excellence and resilience that defines cricket’s greatest legends. In a career defined by unparalleled grace and skill, Tendulkar’s monumental achievement stands as a testament to the timeless allure and enduring legacy of the beautiful game.

14. India’s 2011 World Cup Triumph

The 2011 World Cup, a historic moment that will forever be etched in the annals of cricketing folklore. Picture the euphoric scenes unfolding across the nation as the Men in Blue embark on a relentless quest for cricketing immortality on home soil. With every blistering boundary and acrobatic catch, the Indian team ignites the passion of a billion hearts, forging an unbreakable bond between players and fans alike. Amidst the deafening roar of the crowd and the frenzied celebrations that sweep across the country, India’s victory in the 2011 World Cup transcends mere sporting achievement, symbolizing the triumph of hope, unity, and the unwavering spirit of a nation united in its love for the beautiful game.

15. South Africa Returning in 1991 After Years of Apartheid Isolation

Embark on a journey of redemption and resilience as South Africa emerges from the shadows of apartheid to reclaim its rightful place on the global cricketing stage in 1991. Picture the palpable sense of anticipation and jubilation as the Rainbow Nation makes its triumphant return, symbolizing the triumph of unity and reconciliation over decades of oppression and division. With each thunderous applause and spirited cheer, cricket fans around the world witness the transformative power of sport to heal wounds and bridge divides. Amidst the fervent celebrations and outpouring of emotion, South Africa’s reentry into international cricket becomes a beacon of hope and inspiration, reminding us all of the indomitable human spirit and the enduring quest for justice, equality, and dignity.

16. England’s Remarkable 2019 World Cup Win

Relive the heart-stopping drama of cricket’s greatest stage as England etches their name in history with a remarkable triumph in the 2019 World Cup. Picture the tension mounting to fever pitch as England and New Zealand engage in an epic battle that transcends boundaries and captivates the world. With the match on a knife’s edge, both teams trade blows in a pulsating contest that culminates in a breathtaking tie, forcing a nerve-wracking Super Over to decide the champion. In a crescendo of adrenaline-fueled excitement, England emerges victorious by the slimmest of margins, igniting scenes of euphoria and jubilation that reverberate across the globe. Amidst the deafening roar of the crowd and the tears of joy, England’s triumph stands as a testament to the power of perseverance, teamwork, and unwavering belief in the face of adversity.

17. Adam Gilchrist’s Fast Scoring

Adam Gilchrist.The original uploader was Dannow at English Wikipedia., Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

Adam Gilchrist revolutionized the art of wicketkeeper-batsmanship with his electrifying displays of hard-hitting prowess at the top of the order. Picture the cricketing world in awe as Gilchrist unleashes a ferocious onslaught on bowlers, bludgeoning boundaries with breathtaking ease and precision. With his audacious stroke play and fearless approach, Gilchrist shattered stereotypes and redefined the role of the wicketkeeper, transforming it into a potent weapon in the team’s arsenal. From towering sixes to blistering centuries, Gilchrist’s fast-scoring exploits captivated fans and inspired a generation of cricketers to push the boundaries of what was thought possible. In an era marked by innovation and daring, Gilchrist’s legacy as a trailblazer and game-changer endures, leaving an indelible mark on the sport and cementing his status as one of cricket’s true legends.

18. Kerry Packer’s World Series Cricket

World of cricket in the late 1970s as Kerry Packer, the maverick media tycoon, unleashed a seismic upheaval with his audacious rebel series, World Series Cricket. Picture the cricketing establishment shaken to its core as Packer challenges the status quo with his revolutionary vision for the sport. With floodlit matches, colored clothing, and white balls, Packer transforms cricket into a dazzling spectacle that captivates audiences and redefines the boundaries of traditionalism. Amidst the controversy and backlash, players from around the world flock to Packer’s banner, drawn by the promise of unprecedented financial rewards and the opportunity to showcase their talents on a global stage. In a bold defiance of convention, Packer’s World Series Cricket leaves an indelible mark on the sport, forever altering its trajectory and paving the way for the modern era of cricketing entertainment and commercialization.

19. Anil Kumble Taking 10 Wickets in an Innings

Anil Kumble. CRICKETNEXT, CC BY 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Anil Kumble, the legendary leg-spinner, etches his name into the annals of sporting history with a mesmerizing display of skill and determination. Picture the tension mounting with each twist and turn of the ball as Kumble weaves his magic on the dusty pitch, bamboozling the Pakistani batsmen with his cunning variations and unerring accuracy. With each wicket that tumbles, the roar of the crowd grows louder, fueling Kumble’s  relentless pursuit of perfection. In a breathtaking crescendo of brilliance, Kumble achieves the unthinkable, scalping all ten wickets in a single innings to etch his name in the record books forever. Amidst the jubilant celebrations and reverent applause, Kumble’s monumental feat stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of cricketing excellence and the indomitable will of a true champion.

20. First Underarm Bowl by Trevor Chappell

Cricket’s notorious incident in 1981, as Trevor Chappell, amidst the thundering roar of the crowd, delivered the game’s first underarm bowl—a move that would send shockwaves through the cricketing world. Picture the incredulous gasps and stunned silence that grip the stadium as the ball rolls along the ground, defying the conventions of fair play and sportsmanship. While technically legal, Chappell’s underarm delivery struck at the very spirit of the game, sparking outrage and condemnation from fans, players, and pundits alike. In a moment that transcended mere statistics and regulations, Chappell’s underarm bowl became a poignant reminder of the values that define cricket—integrity, honor, and respect for the traditions of the sport. Amidst the controversy and uproar, cricket was reminded that its spirit could never be overshadowed by mere technicalities.

These 20 moments stand as timeless reminders of the sport’s enduring allure and captivating drama. From iconic victories to awe-inspiring displays of skill, each moment serves as a testament to the indomitable spirit and boundless excitement that make cricket a truly unforgettable experience for fans worldwide.