Test cricket holds a unique place in the world of cricket, known for its rich history and prestige. In 2023, the second cycle of the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) came to end with Australia thrashing India in the final.
The WTC was introduced with an aim of revitalizing the longest format amid the increasing popularity of T20 cricket. The newly crowned champions, Australia, are showcasing their dominance in Test cricket with outstanding performances in the ongoing Ashes series against England.
The 2023-25 WTC cycle began with this Ashes leg. There have been some brilliant individual performances in the series including that of Usman Khawaja, Steve Smith, Joe Root and Ben Stokes. With three Tests remaining in the five-match rubber, the quality of sport will only rise.
Following the conclusion of the second Ashes Test at Lord’s, the veteran sports journalist and commentator Ayaz Memon posted a query for his fans, asking them to name five current Test cricketers who may not only be considered the best but also have the ability to single-handedly change the game.
“Who are the 5 best Test cricketers in the world today? Not just in terms of skill , but game-changers, matchwinners, players most likely to cone good on the ‘Big Occasion’. I’ll pitch 2 names: Ben Stokes. Pat Cummins. (surely No dispute here surely!). Pick 3 others,” tweeted Menon.
Who are the 5 best Test cricketers in the world today? Not just in terms of skill , but game-changers, matchwinners, players most likely to cone good on the ‘Big Occasion’. I’ll pitch 2 names: Ben Stokes. Pat Cummins. (surely No dispute here surely!). Pick 3 others
— Cricketwallah (@cricketwallah) July 3, 2023
Fans quickly shared their choices, and former Indian cricketer Harbhajan Singh also weighed in on the topic. The 43-year-old, who last played for India in 2016, named two Australians, two Indians and one Englishman among his choice.
Nathan lyon
Steav Smith
Rishab Panth
Ravinder Jadeja
Ben strokes https://t.co/joWrcVEE9X— Harbhajan Turbanator (@harbhajan_singh) July 3, 2023
The veteran off-spinner selected Rishabh Pant and Ravindra Jadeja as the two Indian players on his list.
Pant has emerged as a crucial player for India in Test cricket, particularly with his outstanding performances overseas. On the other hand, Jadeja’s remarkable improvement as an all-rounder has been commendable, consistently making valuable contributions with both bat and ball in home as well as overseas Tests.
Harbhajan also named Smith and Nathan Lyon from Australia. Smith is currently the best Test batter, which is evident from his impressive career statistics. Lyon, who unfortunately sustained a calf injury, had played 100 consecutive Tests for Australia as the lead spinner. His control and ability to provide wickets with spin bowling have helped Australia to go with the potent pace attack.
The fifth player on Harbhajan’s list was Stokes from England. The England Test skipper came close to recreating his heroics from the famous Headingley Test in 2019 during the fourth innings of the Lord’s Test.
Although Stokes has reduced his bowling workload in recent years, his golden arm remains capable of taking crucial wickets. His batting prowess has flourished, particularly in the format known as the ‘Bazball.’ However, Stokes’ value to the England team goes beyond his individual performances, as his captaincy skills bring creativity and proactiveness which have been a significant factor in England’s recent success.
While Harbhajan’s choices were well-received, some fans expressed surprise at the exclusion of Pat Cummins – Australia’s leading strike bowler, and Ravichandran Ashwin – an exceptional finger-spinner in Test cricket.
