Who is called the king of cricket?
Cricket is more than just a sport — it's an emotion shared by players and fans alike. Over the years, many cricketers have etched their names into the game’s rich history with remarkable performances and unforgettable moments. Indian legends like Kapil Dev, Sourav Ganguly, Sachin Tendulkar, Virender Sehwag, and Zaheer Khan have proudly represented the country on the international stage. Likewise, global icons such as Sir Don Bradman, Brian Lara, Ricky Ponting, Alastair Cook, and James Anderson have made lasting impacts while playing for their respective nations.
While these names represent greatness in cricket, a lingering question continues to spark debates: who truly deserves the title of “King of Cricket”? It’s a title that isn’t handed out easily. The king of cricket is a player who has consistently dominated the game with exceptional skill — whether through scoring runs, taking wickets, or leading their side to victory. Such a player stands out not just for individual records, but for their overall impact, longevity, and the respect they command on and off the field. In this article, we explore this compelling question and attempt to identify the cricketer who, through unmatched excellence, has truly earned the crown as the King of Cricket.
Who should be referred to as the King of Cricket?
At present, Virat Kohli is widely regarded as the "King of Cricket" due to his extraordinary achievements and remarkable consistency across all formats. Known for his aggressive style, sharp cricketing mind, and unmatched fitness levels, Kohli has set numerous benchmarks in the game. He has become one of the fastest players to reach 8000, 9000, and 10,000 runs in One Day Internationals (ODIs), showcasing his dominance, especially in run chases. Kohli also holds the record for the most centuries in ODIs, further solidifying his legacy as one of the game’s modern greats. His passion, hunger for runs, and ability to perform under pressure have made him a global icon and an inspiration for aspiring cricketers.
1. Virat Kohli
Former Indian captain Virat Kohli is widely regarded as the top contender for the title of the "King of Cricket." With over 27,000 international runs across all formats—ODIs, T20Is, and Tests—Kohli’s impact on modern cricket is unparalleled. His consistency, adaptability, and hunger for runs have made him one of the most formidable batters of this generation. Whether it's chasing targets in ODIs, anchoring innings in Tests, or accelerating in T20Is, Kohli has mastered every format with grace and dominance. His numbers speak volumes about his greatness and place him among the all-time legends of the game. As a captain, he transformed India into a strong force in world cricket, especially in Test matches, where he holds the record for being India’s most successful Test skipper. Kohli’s relentless passion and leadership have inspired millions and left a lasting legacy in the sport.
2. Babar Azam
Pakistan’s former captain Babar Azam is widely regarded by his country’s fans as the “Real King of Cricket.” Known for his elegant stroke play and consistent run-scoring ability, Babar has made a significant mark on international cricket in a relatively short span. As of the 2025 ICC Men’s ODI Rankings, he holds the No. 2 spot, a testament to his quality despite a recent dip in form. In his last ten ODI innings, he has managed three half-centuries, showing flashes of brilliance but struggling to maintain the momentum that once made him one of the top batters in the world. Nevertheless, at just 30, Babar still has several prime years ahead of him.
3. Joe Root
Joe Root, widely regarded as one of the best Test batsmen in the world, is also a strong contender for the title of "King of Cricket." With over 20,000 runs across all formats—Tests, ODIs, and T20Is—Root has cemented his legacy as a modern-day great which is a big cricket update. He has been in sensational form recently, especially in red-ball cricket, where his consistency and composure at the crease stand out. Among active players, he holds the record for the most centuries with 36, showcasing his ability to deliver in pressure situations. Known for his calm demeanor and classic stroke play, Root embodies patience, resilience, and technical brilliance. A former England captain, he led the team through key phases and continues to anchor the batting lineup with distinction.
