Who are the Best Batsmen in the World: Virat Kohli, Kane Williamson, or Steve Smith?
Who are the Best Batsmen in the World: Virat Kohli, Kane Williamson, or Steve Smith?
The question of who is the best batsman in the world often comes up among cricket enthusiasts. Three illustrious names stand out: Steve Smith, Kane Williamson, and Virat Kohli. Let's delve into their performances and highlight why one of them has emerged as the best batsman in the world in the eyes of many.
Steve Smith: The New Bradman for Australia in Test Cricket
Steve Smith has been a formidable presence in Test cricket for Australia. His average over 60 in Test cricket is a phenomenal achievement, showcasing his consistency and reliability under pressure. Test cricket is renowned for its challenges, and maintaining an average in the forties or higher is a significant accomplishment.
However, when it comes to One Day Internationals (ODIs) and T20s, Smith's averages are comparatively lower. He averages just 41 in ODIs and around 30 in T20 matches. While his Test batting credentials are undisputed, his all-round performance across formats might be seen as slightly inconsistent. Despite this, Smith's contribution to the Australian team is immense.
Kane Williamson: New Zealand's Outstanding Batsman
Kane Williamson has brought new vigor to New Zealand cricket. He is a great batsman who led his team to the 2019 World Cup final, where he was named Man of the Series. His leadership on the field and exceptional batting skills have been numerous highlights of the New Zealand team.
While Williamson's overall average is a bit lower compared to Smith and Kohli, he has consistently brought his A-game to the big stages. His ability to perform under pressure and lead his team is a testament to his skills. Williamson's contribution has significantly transformed New Zealand's cricket scene, making him a standout batsman in international cricket.
Virat Kohli: The Prince of Indian Cricket
Virat Kohli is widely regarded as one of the best batsmen of all time. Averaging above 50 in all three formats (Tests, ODIs, and T20s), Kohli has demonstrated unparalleled consistency and skill in every format of the game. He has been a dominant force in international cricket, taking India to new heights.
Kohli's all-rounder approach has made him a complete player. His batting style, ability to score runs quickly, and impressive technique across different formats make him a player to watch. His leadership and mindset often set the tone for Indian cricket, making him an inspirational figure for many budding cricketers.
Personal Opinion: Virat Kohli as the Best Batsman in the World
In my personal opinion, Virat Kohli emerges as the best batsman in the world. While all three cricketers have their unique strengths, Kohli's versatility and sustained excellence in all three formats of the game outweigh the others. His ability to perform consistently under pressure and his significant contributions to the Indian cricket team have set a new standard for batsmen.
Although Steve Smith and Kane Williamson have exceptional attributes and have achieved tremendous success in their respective careers, they seem to fall slightly behind Kohli when it comes to a balanced and all-round performance across formats.
Conclusion: Steve Smith's consistency in Test cricket, Kane Williamson's leadership and all-format performances, and Virat Kohli's unparalleled all-around skills make them three of the best batsmen in the world. Personally, Kohli's dominance and consistency across formats makes him the undisputed best batsman in the world.