In 2021, cricketers across the globe showcased exceptional performances, consistently pushing the boundaries of their sports. This article explores a selection of the top 10 cricketers from that year, highlighting their remarkable achievements and contributions to the sport. Whether it was in Test, One Day Internationals (ODIs), or Twenty20 (T20) formats, these players distinguished themselves as key figures in international cricket.

Top Cricketers in 2021

1. Virat Kohli - India

Virat Kohli, the dominant batsman from India, continued his stellar record in all formats. Known for his consistent run-scoring ability and tactical brilliance, Kohli remained a key player for India, contributing significantly to the team's success.

2. Babar Azam - Pakistan

Babar Azam, an emerging force in world cricket, particularly excelled in limited-overs formats. His batting skills and consistent performances in ODIs and T20s have earned him the recognition of being one of the best batsmen in the world.

3. Kane Williamson - New Zealand

Kane Williamson, renowned for his captaincy and batting skills, particularly shone in Tests and ODIs. His leadership and match-winning performances made him a formidable presence in the New Zealand team.

4. Joe Root - England

As a key player for England in Test cricket, Joe Root demonstrated strong performances throughout the year. His consistent batting and contributing in crucial matches solidified his position among the finest batsmen in Test cricket.

5. Steve Smith - Australia

Steve Smith, known for his unique batting style, particularly excelled in Test cricket. His ability to score heavily and contribute to Australia's success in the sport made him an essential player for the national team.

6. Rashid Khan - Afghanistan

Rashid Khan, a leading T20 bowler, is admired for his exceptional wicket-taking ability and economical bowling. His performance in limited-overs formats, especially in T20 games, has been nothing short of brilliant.

7. Jasprit Bumrah - India

Jasprit Bumrah, one of the top fast bowlers, excelled in all formats, particularly in limited-overs cricket. His unmatched speed and accuracy have made him a feared player on the field.

8. Ben Stokes - England

Ben Stokes, a dynamic all-rounder, was known for his match-winning performances in crucial games. His all-round skills and incisive bowling made him a valuable asset for the English team.

9. Quinton de Kock - South Africa

Quinton de Kock, a prolific wicketkeeper-batsman, particularly excelled in limited-overs formats, showcasing his skills as a batsman while setting the pace with the gloves.

10. Trent Boult - New Zealand

Trent Boult, a key fast bowler for New Zealand, excelled especially in ODIs and T20s. His reliability and effectiveness in high-pressure situations made him an indispensable part of the New Zealand team.

However, the year 2021 was not just about these top 10 cricketers. A strong candidate for inclusion in this list is Pat Cummins. Australia's team had a remarkable year, winning the T20 World Cup and seeing Cummins appointed as the new Test captain. His leadership and impactful performances suggest that he will continue to shape Australian cricket for years to come.

Conclusion

While the rankings can vary slightly based on different cricket boards and publications, these names consistently featured among the best cricketers of 2021. Each player brought their unique skills and dedication to the sport, making 2021 a memorable year for international cricket.