One of the biggest stories in cricket this year has been the rise of a new generation of standout performers across all formats of the game. While some players have long been household names, others have emerged as breakout stars, dominating with bat and ball in 2025.
We’ve taken a closer look at the global cricket landscape and ranked the 12 best players in the world right now, based on their form, impact, and consistency across formats.
12. Babar Azam
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Pakistan’s Babar Azam continues to be a pillar of consistency in international cricket. His elegant strokeplay and ability to anchor innings make him one of the finest ODI batsmen in the world. Ranked second in the ICC ODI batting rankings, Babar remains the face of Pakistani cricket in 2025.
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India’s rising superstar Shubman Gill has taken his game to new heights. As the current No. 1 ranked ODI batsman, he combines classical technique with fearless aggression. Gill’s performances have made him the backbone of India’s limited-overs setup.
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One of the most complete players in the game, India’s Ravindra Jadeja remains the ultimate utility man in Test cricket. His tight left-arm spin, reliable lower-order batting, and elite fielding make him indispensable. Jadeja is ranked No. 1 among Test all-rounders in 2025.
9. Kagiso Rabada
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South African pacer Kagiso Rabada continues to strike fear into batsmen around the world. With raw pace and pinpoint accuracy, he is a consistent wicket-taker in the longest format. Rabada holds a spot near the top of the ICC Test bowling rankings.
8. Jasprit Bumrah
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India’s Jasprit Bumrah has redefined modern fast bowling with his unorthodox action and lethal accuracy. Currently the top-ranked Test bowler, he’s a match-winner in any conditions. Bumrah’s late-over heroics and reverse swing have been vital for India in 2025.
7. Abhishek Sharma
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India’s Abhishek Sharma has burst onto the T20I scene with fearless and explosive batting. Ranked second in the ICC T20I batting list, he’s become one of the game’s most dangerous openers. His aggression and flair fit perfectly in the modern game.
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Travis Head has become one of Australia’s most destructive limited-overs batsmen. His power at the top of the order and ability to take on any bowling attack earned him the No. 1 ranking in T20I batting. Head continues to deliver in big matches.
5. Steven Smith
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Australia’s Steven Smith remains a master technician in the Test arena. With unshakable focus and an uncanny ability to adapt, he stays among the world’s elite. Smith’s consistency and leadership are central to Australia’s red-ball success.
4. Yashasvi Jaiswal
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India’s Yashasvi Jaiswal has established himself as one of Test cricket’s brightest young stars. His maturity at the crease and ability to build big innings have propelled him into the ICC top five. Jaiswal is quickly becoming a cornerstone of India’s future.
3. Kane Williamson
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New Zealand’s Kane Williamson continues to exemplify class and control in the longest format. His calm demeanor and precise shot selection have earned him respect across the cricketing world. Williamson remains among the top Test batsmen in 2025.
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Harry Brook has become a central figure in England’s red-ball resurgence. With explosive strokeplay and fearless intent, he’s climbed to No. 2 in the ICC Test rankings. Brook’s ability to turn games in a session has made him one of the most talked-about players of the year.
1. Joe Root
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England’s Joe Root remains the world’s premier Test batsman. His skill in grinding out innings and his consistency in all conditions make him a true modern great. Root sits atop the ICC rankings, continuing to define excellence with the red ball.