Wicketkeeping is a specialized art in cricket that demands sharp reflexes, and a keen cricketing sense. Over the years, the cricketing world has witnessed some extraordinary wicketkeepers who have not only excelled in their glovework but also made significant contributions with the bat. In this article, we’ll explore the top 10 best wicketkeepers in the world, celebrating their skills and impact on the game.
Adam Gilchrist (Australia)
Adam Gilchrist, often regarded as the best wicketkeeper-batsman in cricket history, redefined the role with his explosive batting and amazing glovework. In 396 matches, Gilchrist recorded a staggering 905 dismissals, showcasing his dominance both behind the stumps and as an aggressive left-handed batsman.
| Format | Matches | Innings | Runs | High Score | Average | Strike Rate | 100s | 50s |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Test | 96 | 137 | 5570 | 204* | 47.6 | 82.0 | 17 | 26 |
| ODI | 287 | 279 | 9619 | 172 | 35.9 | 96.9 | 16 | 55 |
| T20I | 13 | 13 | 272 | 48 | 22.7 | 141.7 | 0 | 0 |
| IPL | 80 | 80 | 2069 | 109* | 27.2 | 138.4 | 2 | 11 |
MS Dhoni (India)
MS Dhoni, a cricketing legend and successful captain, is known for lightning-fast wicketkeeping skills. With 829 dismissals in 538 international appearances, Dhoni holds the record for the fastest stumping in world cricket. His leadership and ability to finish matches make him a true icon in the cricketing world.
| Format | Matches | Innings | Runs | High Score | Average | Strike Rate | 100s | 50s |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Test | 90 | 144 | 4876 | 224 | 38.1 | 59.1 | 6 | 33 |
| ODI | 350 | 297 | 10773 | 183* | 50.6 | 87.6 | 10 | 73 |
| T20I | 98 | 85 | 1617 | 56 | 37.6 | 126.1 | 0 | 2 |
| IPL | 250 | 218 | 5082 | 84* | 38.8 | 135.9 | 0 | 24 |
Kumar Sangakkara (Sri Lanka)
Kumar Sangakkara, a dashing left-hand batsman, was instrumental in Sri Lanka’s rise as a batting powerhouse. With an impressive record of 678 dismissals in 594 international matches, Sangakkara showcased his brilliance both with the bat and behind the stumps during his 15-year career.
| Format | Matches | Innings | Runs | High Score | Average | Strike Rate | 100s | 50s |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Test | 134 | 233 | 12400 | 319 | 57.4 | 54.2 | 38 | 52 |
| ODI | 404 | 380 | 14234 | 169 | 42.0 | 78.9 | 25 | 93 |
| T20I | 56 | 53 | 1382 | 78 | 31.4 | 119.5 | 0 | 8 |
| IPL | 71 | 68 | 1687 | 94 | 25.9 | 121.2 | 0 | 10 |
Mark Boucher (South Africa)
Mark Boucher, with a record 998 dismissals in 467 matches, stands as one of the greatest wicketkeepers in cricket history. His safe hands and consistency make him a legendary figure, contributing significantly to South Africa’s success over the years.
| Format | Matches | Innings | Runs | High Score | Average | Strike Rate | 100s | 50s |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Test | 147 | 206 | 5515 | 125 | 30.3 | 50.1 | 5 | 35 |
| ODI | 295 | 221 | 4686 | 147* | 28.6 | 84.8 | 1 | 26 |
| T20I | 25 | 21 | 268 | 36* | 17.9 | 97.5 | 0 | 0 |
| IPL | 31 | 24 | 394 | 50* | 28.1 | 127.5 | 0 | 1 |
Brad Haddin (Australia)
Brad Haddin, a replacement for Adam Gilchrist, became one of Australia’s best wicketkeepers. In his 14-year career spanning 226 international matches, Haddin accounted for 474 dismissals, showcasing his skills as a gloveman.
| Format | Matches | Innings | Runs | High Score | Average | Strike Rate | 100s | 50s |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Test | 66 | 112 | 3266 | 169 | 33.0 | 58.5 | 4 | 18 |
| ODI | 126 | 115 | 3122 | 110 | 31.5 | 84.2 | 2 | 16 |
| T20I | 34 | 29 | 402 | 47 | 17.5 | 114.5 | 0 | 0 |
| IPL | 1 | 1 | 18 | 18 | 18.0 | 163.6 | 0 | 0 |
Quinton de Kock (South Africa)
Quinton de Kock, a flamboyant wicketkeeper-batsman, has already notched up over 6,500 ODI runs and nearly 4,000 Test runs at the age of 29. With 225 ODI and 182 Test dismissals, De Kock is a rising star and is expected to become South Africa’s greatest-ever keeper.
De Kock is a batsman who doubles as a brilliant wicketkeeper, de Kock’s explosive batting, and unbelievable catches make him a true entertainer. Though he retired from Test cricket, his white-ball skills remain unmatched.
Mohammad Rizwan (Pakistan)
Mohammad Rizwan recognized as one of the top wicketkeeper-batsmen currently, has played 49 Tests, 85 ODIs, and 61 T20Is. Praised for his calm batting style and solid keeping skills, Rizwan holds the record for most T20I runs and dismissals by a keeper.
Rizwan has emerged as a consistent performer for Pakistan, impressing everyone with his calm demeanor, solid technique, and exceptional leadership qualities. His wicketkeeping skills are top-notch, and his batting average speaks volumes about his talent.
Rishabh Pant (India)
Rishabh Pant, a 24-year-old with raw potential, has already displayed game-changing performances. Known for his fearless batting and improved wicketkeeping skills, Pant is poised to become India’s next legendary wicketkeeping superstar.
The young Indian wicketkeeper is a phenomenon, known for his aggressive batting and fearless approach. His talent and ability to score big runs under pressure make him a vital cog in India’s batting line-up. His wicketkeeping skills are constantly improving, and he is considered a future great.
Jos Buttler (England)
Jos Buttler, with his eye-catching strokeplay, is one of the most dynamic wicketkeeper-batsmen today. Capable of changing games quickly, Buttler has 329 international dismissals at just age 32, showcasing his prowess both behind the stumps and with the bat.
Known for his fearless batting and flamboyant wicketkeeping style, Buttler brings excitement to the field. His ability to score quickly and take stunning catches makes him a valuable asset in any format.
Mushfiqur Rahim (Bangladesh)
Mushfiqur Rahim, the best wicketkeeper-batsman from Bangladesh, has over 5,500 ODI runs and 4 centuries in Tests. His impressive keeping, especially in spin-dominated conditions, adds great value to the Bangladesh cricket team.
This experienced Bangladeshi wicketkeeper-batsman is known for his elegant strokeplay and composure at the crease. His wicketkeeping skills are commendable, and he has contributed significantly to Bangladesh’s cricketing success.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Who Is The Best Wicketkeeper Of All Time?
- Most experts and fans rate Adam Gilchrist as the greatest Test and ODI wicketkeeper ever due to his phenomenal batting and neat keeping.
- Is MS Dhoni A Better Keeper Or Batsman?
- While Dhoni is an excellent ODI batsman, his true greatness lies more in his lightning-fast wicket-keeping skills and reflexes.
- Who Is Faster Between Dhoni And Gilchrist In Stumpings?
- MS Dhoni has performed some of the swiftest stumpings ever seen, even faster than his idol Adam Gilchrist on occasion.
- Who Is The Best Keeper In IPL History?
- MS Dhoni, with over 150 dismissals, holds the record for the most dismissals by a keeper in IPL history.
- Who Is The Current Best Wicketkeeper In The World?
- Most experts today rate Quinton de Kock as the best keeper across formats ahead of Buttler, Pant, and others.