English all-rounder Moeen Ali, a prominent figure in cricket circles, sparked debates and discussions with his bold ranking of the top Indian cricketers of all time. His choices deviated from the conventional norms, challenging the expected hierarchy by placing former captain MS Dhoni at the pinnacle of Indian cricketing excellence.
Ali, known for his role in the IPL with Chennai Super Kings and his tenure in England’s national team, asserted his views on the standout Indian cricketers in a viral video. He passionately outlined his top five, with Dhoni leading the pack. This choice raised eyebrows but was grounded in Dhoni’s remarkable leadership that steered India to victory in the 2011 World Cup and numerous other triumphs.
In Ali’s ranking, current Indian captain Virat Kohli secured the second spot, acknowledging his sheer greatness and unparalleled skills on the field. The legendary Sachin Tendulkar, often revered as the God of Cricket, claimed the third position for pioneering the art of batting, setting a benchmark that resonates even in contemporary cricket discussions.
While Ali acknowledged Sunil Gavaskar’s greatness, his limited exposure to Gavaskar’s era hindered a higher placement on the list. However, he lavishly praised Tendulkar for epitomizing an entirely different level of batting prowess.
The fourth and fifth slots were filled by the explosive Virender Sehwag and the technically sound yet flamboyant Yuvraj Singh, respectively. Ali’s admiration for Sehwag’s unorthodox yet highly effective batting in all formats of the game reflected the respect the cricketer earned globally for his aggressive approach.
Speaking of Yuvraj Singh, Ali delved into the personal impact the left-handed maestro had on his own game. He highlighted Singh’s remarkable bat swing and the awe-inspiring elegance of his strokeplay, making him a compelling force when in full flow. Ali confessed to emulating Singh’s technique to a certain extent, considering him a significant influence on his own cricketing style.
Ali’s choices showcased a blend of admiration for traditional batting excellence, unorthodox aggression, and technical finesse. The exclusion of current Indian skipper Rohit Sharma and notable Indian bowlers might raise eyebrows, but Ali’s perspective stemmed from his personal experiences, era of exposure, and the individual impacts these players had on him as a cricketer.
The crux of Ali’s ranking seems anchored in the multifaceted contributions of these cricketers to the sport and the manner in which they influenced the cricketing landscape, each leaving an indelible mark in their unique ways.
This assessment by Moeen Ali serves as a testament to the diversity of opinions in cricket, showcasing how the sport’s evolution has been shaped by a multitude of talents, each celebrated for their distinct cricketing virtues.