The Undisputed No. 1: Sachin Tendulkar
Topping the list from the English duo was India's own Master Blaster, Sachin Tendulkar. It's a choice that finds little argument. Holding the records for the most runs and centuries in Test history, Tendulkar's career defined an era. Broad and Buttler
placed him at the pinnacle, a testament to his sustained excellence and global impact that transcended the 22-yard strip. His technical perfection and ability to dominate in all conditions make him the benchmark against which all modern batters are measured.
The Genius of Lara and Smith
Just behind Tendulkar, Buttler and Broad placed West Indian genius Brian Lara at number two, followed by Australian run-machine Steve Smith at three. Lara, known for his monumental scores and flamboyant style, holds the record for the highest individual Test score of 400 not out. Smith, with his famously unorthodox technique, has been a statistical marvel, boasting a Test average that puts him in the company of the all-time greats. Their high ranking reflects a respect for both dazzling flair and relentless consistency.
England's Own and an Aussie Great
Coming in at number four is former England captain Joe Root, a teammate to both Buttler and Broad. Root is one of the most prolific scorers of the modern era, sitting high on the all-time run-scorers list. At number five, they placed the formidable Australian captain Ricky Ponting. A fierce competitor, Ponting dominated the 2000s with his aggressive batting and led one of the greatest Test teams in history.
The Stalwarts: Sangakkara and Kallis
The middle order of their list features two of the game's most respected figures. Sri Lanka's elegant left-hander Kumar Sangakkara is ranked sixth. Sangakkara was a model of consistency, finishing his career with an astonishing Test average of over 57. Just behind him at number seven is South Africa's Jacques Kallis, arguably the greatest all-rounder the game has ever seen. Kallis combined a rock-solid batting technique with potent fast-medium bowling, scoring over 13,000 runs and taking nearly 300 wickets.
A Modern Magician and 'The Wall'
South Africa's AB de Villiers, a player Jos Buttler has often cited as an idol, comes in at number eight. De Villiers was known for his 360-degree strokeplay and ability to change a game in a single session. At number nine is India's Rahul Dravid. 'The Wall' was celebrated for his immense concentration and peerless technique, forming the backbone of India's batting for over a decade and starring in some of the nation's most famous overseas victories.
The Controversial No. 10: Virat Kohli
Perhaps the biggest talking point from the list is Virat Kohli's placement at number ten. As one of the 'Fab Four' and a player who has dominated world cricket for years, many fans would have expected him to be higher. Kohli's aggressive approach and his record of scoring centuries in all major Test-playing nations speak for themselves. While his inclusion is a must, his position at the bottom of this elite group has certainly fueled intense discussion among fans and pundits alike.
