CRICKET OPINION

FIVE Greatest Indian ODI All-rounders of All Time

Indian all-rounders have always held a special place due to their ability to impact the game in multiple facets. These versatile players, capable of contributing significantly with both bat and ball and often as fielders, have played pivotal roles in India’s cricketing triumphs. From Kapil Dev’s legendary feats to the contemporary brilliance of Ravindra Jadeja, these cricketers have showcased exceptional skill, adaptability, and resilience. Their all-round performances have won matches for India and also inspired generations of cricketers and fans alike. Let’s explore the unique playing styles, skills, and invaluable contributions of the best Indian all-rounders.

List of Five Greatest Indian ODI All-rounders of All Time

All-rounders are an integral part of any cricket team due to their batting and bowling skills. They affect the course of the game at any part of the game. Here is the list of the top 5 greatest Indian all-rounders in ODI:

Kapil Dev

Kapil Dev, one of India’s most celebrated cricketers, is renowned for his dual capabilities as a powerful batsman and a skilled fast-medium bowler. As an all-rounder, he could change the course of a match with both bat and ball. Kapil’s batting was characterized by aggressive stroke play, with a penchant for big hits, which often provided crucial runs for the team. His iconic 175* against Zimbabwe in the 1983 World Cup is a testament to his match-winning prowess. As a bowler, Kapil was adept at swinging the ball both ways and maintained a consistent line and length, making him a formidable opponent for batsmen. His athleticism and agility on the field further enhanced his role as an all-rounder, making significant contributions to Indian cricket.

Batting Stats

FormatMatInnsNORunsHSAveBFSR100s50s6s
Tests13118415524816331.0582761
ODIs225198393783175*23.79397995.07114

Bowling Stats

FormatMatInnsBallsRunsWktsBBIBBMAveEconSR4w5w10w
Tests13122727740128674349/8311/14629.642.7863.917232
ODIs2252211120269452535/435/4327.453.7144.2310

Manoj Prabhakar

Manoj Prabhakar was known for his versatility as an all-rounder, capable of contributing effectively in both batting and bowling departments. Starting as a lower-order batsman, Prabhakar later transitioned to an opening role, showcasing his adaptability and skill. His batting was marked by resilience and the ability to anchor the innings, while his medium-fast bowling was notable for its ability to exploit swing conditions. Prabhakar’s bowling repertoire included crafty slower balls and cutters, making him a valuable asset in limited-overs cricket. His performances often provided crucial breakthroughs for India, and his ability to swing the ball both ways posed significant challenges for batsmen.

Batting Stats

FormatMatInnsNORunsHSAveBFSR100s50s6s
Tests39589160012032.65194
ODIs1309821185810624.12308360.26211

Bowling Stats

FormatMatInnsBallsRunsWktsBBIBBMAveEconSR4w5w10w
Tests396874753581966/1326/9237.302.8777.8430
ODIs130127636045341575/335/3328.874.2740.5420

Sourav Ganguly

Sourav Ganguly, affectionately known as ‘Dada,’ was a quintessential all-rounder known for his elegant left-handed batting and useful medium-pace bowling. Ganguly’s batting style was defined by his impeccable timing and exquisite stroke play, especially on the off-side, earning him the moniker ‘God of the Off Side.’ As a captain, he was instrumental in building a strong, competitive Indian team. Ganguly’s bowling, though not as prominent as his batting, was effective in breaking partnerships and providing vital overs in the middle of an innings. His leadership qualities, combined with his all-round capabilities, made him a pivotal figure in Indian cricket.

Batting Stats

FormatMatInnsNORunsHSAveBFSR100s50s4s6s
Tests11318817721223942.171407051.25163590057
ODIs311300231136318341.021541673.7022721122190

Bowling Stats

FormatMatInnsBallsRunsWktsBBIBBMAveEconSR4w5w10w
Tests1139931171681323/283/3752.533.2397.4000
ODIs311171456138491005/165/1638.495.0645.6120

Yuvraj Singh

Yuvraj Singh is celebrated for his explosive batting, dynamic fielding, and handy left-arm spin. His aggressive batting style, characterized by powerful shots and quick scoring, made him a game-changer in limited-overs cricket. Yuvraj’s memorable performance in the 2007 T20 World Cup, where he hit six sixes in an over, and his crucial role in India’s 2011 World Cup victory highlight his prowess. As a bowler, Yuvraj provided valuable overs with his left-arm orthodox spin, often breaking crucial partnerships. His agility and athleticism in the field added to his value as an all-rounder, making him one of India’s most cherished cricketers.

Batting Stats

FormatMatInnsNORunsHSAveBFSR100s50s4s6s
Tests40626190016933.92327757.9731126022
ODIs30427840870115036.55992487.671452908155

Bowling Stats

FormatMatInnsBallsRunsWktsBBIBBMAveEconSR4w5w10w
Tests403593154792/92/2060.773.52103.4000
ODIs304161504842941115/315/3138.685.1045.4210

Ravindra Jadeja

Ravindra Jadeja, often referred to as ‘Sir Jadeja,’ is known for his exceptional fielding, reliable lower-order batting, and economical left-arm spin bowling. Jadeja’s batting is marked by his ability to stabilize the innings and accelerate when needed, often playing crucial knocks in tight situations. His left-arm spin is characterized by accuracy, consistency, and the ability to bowl tight lines, making him a valuable asset in controlling the flow of runs. Jadeja’s fielding is among the best in the world, with sharp reflexes and a strong throwing arm, contributing significantly to India’s success in all formats of the game.

Batting Stats

FormatMatInnsNORunsHSAveBFSR100s50s4s6s
Tests6685172523175*37.10446656.4811531644
ODIs1741123024478729.84276688.4501315844

Bowling Stats

FormatMatInnsBallsRunsWktsBBIBBMAveEconSR4w5w10w
Tests661251625569472847/4810/15424.452.5657.21071
ODIs174169849767121895/365/3635.514.7444.9710

Safeer

Safeer an is sports writer at CricChef. He has been a Cricket fan since 2nd Grader. Having extensive knowledge of the Cricket and Fantasy Sports, his in-depth knowledge and experience as a fan makes his writing resonate with cricket fans worldwide.