Introduction
Some batsmen have risen above regular cricket. They achieved extraordinary things. They had unique playing styles. They dominated their time periods. They changed batting techniques. They inspired future cricketers.
Sir Donald Bradman
Sir Donald Bradman leads any discussion of great batsmen. His Test average was 99.94. This remains cricket’s most famous number. No one can match it. His technique was different from others. Yet he scored consistently from 1928 to 1948. He scored runs quickly in all conditions. No one before or since has matched him.
Sachin Tendulkar
People called him the “Little Master.” Tendulkar ruled cricket for over 20 years (1989-2013). He scored 100 international centuries. He holds records in Tests and ODIs. His technique was perfect. His straight drive was beautiful. He played pace and spin well. He was the most complete batsman of his time. He changed cricket in India and worldwide.
Sir Vivian Richards
Richards dominated batting in the 1970s and 1980s. He played without a helmet. He faced the world’s fastest bowlers. His confidence changed batting possibilities. He could dominate bowling attacks. He kept a high average while batting aggressively. He showed aggressive batting could work consistently.
Brian Lara
Brian Lara was an elegant left-handed batsman. He holds the highest scores in cricket:
- 501 not out in first-class cricket
- 400 not out in Test matches He could play long innings aggressively. His technique was compact. His timing was perfect. He played spin bowling especially well.
Ricky Ponting
Ricky Ponting led Australia’s best teams. He pulled and hooked fast bowling brilliantly. He played aggressively from the start. He changed Test batting approaches. He played well in all formats. He succeeded in all conditions.
Modern Greats and Impact
These legends influenced today’s stars like:
- Virat Kohli
- Steve Smith
- Kane Williamson
Each legend added something special:
- Bradman showed efficient scoring
- Tendulkar brought perfect technique
- Richards proved aggressive batting works
- Lara displayed elegant shots
- Ponting mastered all aspects
Conclusion
These batting legends changed cricket forever. Their impact goes beyond numbers. They brought new techniques. They changed how players think. They developed new tactics. They still influence modern cricket. They inspire new generations of players.
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