Cricket enthusiasts and fans around the globe are getting ready to witness the most awaited cricketing extravaganza of the year – the ICC Cricket World Cup 2023. As the cricketing world converges on the grand stage, anticipation and excitement are reaching fever pitch.
One of the most thrilling aspects of this tournament is the incredible talent gracing the field, particularly the batters who have the power to set the stadium alight with their explosive strokes and impeccable timing. The forthcoming ICC tournament has it all, from established legends to emerging superstars, and these players are the ones to watch out for!
Here is the list of the top five batters with the calibre to dazzle, delight and dominate in the Cricket World Cup 2023:
1) Shubman Gill
Shubman Gill is considered the next big thing in cricket, and with good reason. The young prodigy from India has repeatedly demonstrated his immense power, skill, and charisma, capable of single-handedly dismantling any bowling attack that stands in his way.
Shubman’s journey to international cricket began with his ODI debut against New Zealand in 2019, where he showcased glimpses of his extraordinary talent. Since then, he has consistently impressed cricketing aficionados and experts with his breathtaking performances on the field.
The right-handed batter achieved a rare feat that few can claim-scoring centuries in every format of cricket. The 24-year-old is going through amazing form, becoming the top-run-getter in the Asia Cup 2023 and bagging the ‘Man of the series’ in Australia’s recently concluded ODI Tour of India.
As the Cricket World Cup 2023 unfolds, one thing is certain: Shubman’s journey promises to be filled with excitement, and he is undoubtedly one of the top batters to watch out for in this year’s World Cup.
Also READ: Team-wise youngest players featuring in the ODI World Cup 2023
2) Babar Azam
Babar Azam is undoubtedly one of the top batters to watch out for in the ODI World Cup 2023. Holding the coveted number 1 spot in ICC‘s ODI rankings is a testament to his exceptional batting masterclass.
His staggering statistics tell the tale of his remarkable career: in 105 innings, he has amassed 5409 runs, including 19 centuries and 29 fifties, at a breathtaking average of 58.16.
The right-handed batter’s ability to play under pressure and adapt to different conditions makes him a force reckoned with. Despite the Green Team’s underwhelming display in the Asia Cup and amidst persistent rumours of internal strife within the squad, Babar Azam remains steadfast in his commitment to excel on one of cricket’s grandest stages.
3) David Warner
David Warner‘s exceptional performance in the 2019 world Cup, where he came within a solitary run of matching Rohit Sharma‘s total runs (648), is one of the the biggest testament to his resilience and astounding batting abilites. The left-handed batter averaged an impressive 71.88 with three centuries despite Australia not clinching the title.
While he may have faced fluctuations in form in recent years, In 2023, he has amassed 390 runs in nine ODIs at an average of 43.33, including one ton and four half-centuries. Currently ranked as the best batter in Australia by ICC, Warner’s ability to adapt to different conditions, especially on Indian pitches, where he has a fantastic track record, makes him a formidable presence in the tournament.
Moreover, Warner’s popularity in India adds to his appeal, making him a player fans across the globe will be eagerly watching as he aims to make a significant impact in the ODI World Cup 2023.
4) Joe Root
Joe Root, a pivotal figure in England‘s batting lineup, gets his batting supremacy characterized by the art of accumulating extended innings and the ability to anchor them when the situation demands. The 32-year-old reputation is built on his graceful style, impeccable judgment, and unwavering reliability on the pitch.
A defining moment in Root’s career came in 2019 when he played a pivotal role in England’s maiden ODI World Cup victory. With 556 runs in 11 innings, he boasted an impressive average of 61.78 and a strike rate of 89.53.
The right-hander batter is England’s second-highest run-scorer in the format, trailing only Eoin Morgan with 6,957 runs, notching up an impressive 6,247 runs in 151 innings. His batting prowess shines through with an impressive average of 48.8 and a strike rate of 86.7, highlighted by 36 half-centuries and 16 centuries.
However, 2023 has been a comparatively challenging year for Root, as he managed just 39 runs in four ODI innings. Nevertheless, as England embarks on their title defense, Root is primed to return to top form and assume a crucial role in their quest for cricketing excellence.
5) Kane Williamson
Leading New Zealand as their skipper, Kane Williamson carries a wealth of experience and a stellar cricketing record. His leadership skills were evident in the 2019 ODI World Cup when he captained New Zealand to the final, a memorable match that ended in a dramatic super-over loss to England. This experience has undoubtedly shaped him into a more mature and composed leader.
The right-handed batter has consistently been a reliable run-scorer for the Blackcaps, often anchoring the innings and providing stability to the team’s batting order.
One aspect that makes the 33-year-old’s presence in the tournament even more compelling is his return to ODI cricket after suffering an injury during the IPL 2023 while representing the Gujarat Titans.
As the ODI World Cup 2023 unfolds, cricket fanatics expect Williamson to continue his consistent, high-quality performances. His skill, leadership, and determination make him a batter who can significantly impact the tournament.
