In the ever-evolving world of cricket, legends are born, records are shattered, and fans passionately debate who deserves the title of the “God of Cricket.” For decades, Sachin Tendulkar held this divine moniker, not just for his staggering records but for the grace, consistency, and humility with which he played. But cricket has moved on into a new era – a time dominated by fierce competition, power hitting, all-format dominance, and heightened expectations.
As we move through the 2020s, a new question arises in every cricket fan’s mind: Who is the new God of world cricket? While this title is largely symbolic and subjective, it is often awarded to a player who has not only dominated the game statistically but also captured hearts across the globe. To answer this, we must evaluate contenders across formats, their influence on the game, their records, and the impact they’ve made.
Criteria for the “New God” Title
Before jumping to names, let’s define what it means to be the “God of Cricket” in the modern era. It goes beyond stats – it includes:
- All-format dominance
- Longevity and consistency
- Big-match performances
- Global popularity and fan following
- Influence and inspiration for younger players
- Records and milestones
- Respect on and off the field
Key Contenders
1. Virat Kohli (India)
If anyone has come close to inheriting Tendulkar’s legacy, it is Virat Kohli. Often referred to as the “King of Cricket,” Kohli’s numbers are staggering:
- 75+ international centuries
- 25,000+ international runs
- Average over 50 in all formats for most of his career
- ICC Cricketer of the Decade (2010s)
- Dominated Tests, ODIs, and T20Is for over a decade
- Known for his chase mastery, particularly in ODIs
Kohli’s mental toughness, aggressive style, and unmatched fitness revolutionized Indian cricket. His passion, intensity, and hunger to win inspired a new generation of cricketers. His charisma and commercial appeal have made him a household name beyond cricketing nations.
2. Babar Azam (Pakistan)
Babar Azam has emerged as one of the most technically sound and elegant batters of this era. He became the fastest player to 5,000 ODI runs, broke multiple consistency records, and carried Pakistan’s batting across formats.
While Babar doesn’t yet have the fanfare or legacy of Kohli or Tendulkar, his calm demeanor, consistency, and all-format prowess make him a worthy future candidate.
3. Joe Root (England)
Joe Root is often regarded as the finest Test batsman of the current generation. With over 11,000 Test runs, he’s been a rock in England’s middle order for more than a decade. While his white-ball presence isn’t as dominant, his Test match mastery is reminiscent of cricket’s traditional greats.
4. Steve Smith (Australia)
Once hailed as the closest to Bradman in terms of Test match batting average, Steve Smith’s unorthodox style has brought him immense success. He’s been a run-machine in Test cricket and has shown brilliance in ODIs too. However, the 2018 ball-tampering scandal put a dent in his image – a factor that might limit his claim to the divine title.
5. Kane Williamson (New Zealand)
Kane Williamson combines elegance, composure, and leadership. He led New Zealand to the World Test Championship title and multiple World Cup finals. While not a flashy player, his humility and ability to anchor innings under pressure make him universally respected.
Emerging Forces
1. Shubman Gill (India)
Still early in his career, Gill is already being touted as the next batting megastar. With multiple centuries across formats, including a double hundred in ODIs, his technique and temperament are top-tier. If he maintains his current trajectory, he could be a future contender.
2. Rashid Khan (Afghanistan)
In the shorter formats, particularly T20s, Rashid Khan is nothing short of a phenomenon. As a leg-spinner, he’s dominated global leagues and international cricket alike. While unlikely to be the “God of Cricket” in a traditional batting-focused sense, his impact on global T20 cricket is undeniable.
And the Title Goes To…
Considering all the variables – records, longevity, influence, and legacy, Virat Kohli stands tallest among his contemporaries. While there are many greats in modern cricket, Kohli’s achievements and global reach elevate him to a divine status in the cricketing universe.
Why Virat Kohli Deserves the Title
1. All-Format Dominance
Kohli is the only player in modern history to average over 50 in all three international formats for most of his playing career. He has scored centuries in Tests, ODIs, and T20Is, including the fastest ODI century by an Indian.
2. Chasing King
His ability to anchor run chases, particularly in ODIs, is unmatched. Many of India’s famous wins from 2012 to 2023 came off Kohli’s bat during tense chases.
3. Match Winner
Kohli has delivered on the biggest stages – ICC tournaments, matches against Pakistan, and crunch games under pressure.
4. Fitness Revolution
He changed the culture of fitness in Indian cricket. His commitment to health, training, and intensity set new benchmarks.
5. Fan Following
With over 250 million social media followers, Kohli is not just a cricket icon but a global sports brand. His face is instantly recognizable in all cricket-playing nations.
6. Legacy
Whether it’s mentoring youngsters like Shubman Gill or setting an example with his work ethic, Kohli’s legacy will go far beyond his runs. He redefined professionalism in Indian cricket.
Beyond Numbers: The Emotional Connect
While stats and trophies can measure greatness, being the “God of Cricket” is also about emotional connection with fans. Kohli wears his heart on his sleeve. His celebrations, intensity, tears, and triumphs resonate with millions. He made cricket emotional, personal, and passionate for a new generation.
Just as Sachin inspired kids to take up the bat, Kohli has inspired a generation to chase excellence – with aggression, fearlessness, and resilience.
