In an era dominated by big shots and booming boundaries, running between the wickets remains crucial. Legendary batter Sunil Gavaskar often emphasizes the importance of converting ones into twos, a principle that holds true even in modern cricket.
While T20 cricket has increased the frequency of boundaries, the skill of quick singles and converting runs is still vital. Here, we rank the top five fastest runners in international cricket today.
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Virat Kohli
Virat Kohli, the ace Indian batter, is not only known for his record-breaking feats with the bat but also for his exceptional fitness and running between the wickets. He holds the record for being the fastest to 25,000 international runs and is the first player to score 50 ODI centuries, surpassing Sachin Tendulkar. Kohli’s ability to constantly rotate the strike and convert singles into doubles keeps the pressure on bowlers. His fitness and speed have set new standards for any sportsperson in the World.
MS Dhoni
Former Indian captain MS Dhoni is renowned for his sharp cricketing mind, wicket-keeping skills, and incredible fitness. Even after retiring from international cricket, Dhoni’s speed between the wickets surpasses many younger players.
He led India to victories in the 2007 T20 World Cup, the 2011 ODI World Cup, and the 2013 Champions Trophy. Dhoni’s ability to convert crucial singles into doubles and finish games in style has made him one of the greatest finishers in cricket history.
AB de Villiers
Known as ‘Mr. 360’, AB de Villiers is a former South African captain celebrated for his effortless power-hitting, and innovative shots. He holds the record for the fastest century in ODI cricket, scoring 100 runs off just 31 balls against West Indies in 2015.
De Villiers was also among the quickest runners between the wickets, effortlessly converting singles into doubles and triples. His exceptional fielding and fitness played a crucial role in transforming the fitness culture of the South African team.
David Warner
Australian star batter David Warner is famous for his aggressive play, often dealing in fours and sixes. However, Warner is also one of the fastest runners between the wickets, consistently rotating the strike to keep the scoreboard moving.
He has scored over 8000 runs in international cricket, with almost half coming from singles and doubles. Warner’s quick judgment and running ability, combined with his top-notch fielding, make him a valuable asset on the field.
Hardik Pandya
Indian all-rounder Hardik Pandya is a dynamic player capable of turning matches in his team’s favor with both bat and ball. He is also an excellent sprinter, easily converting singles into doubles and doubles into triples. Pandya frequently keeps the scoreboard ticking with quick singles and doubles, complementing his powerful boundary hitting.
As one of the best fielders in the world, Pandya’s athleticism adds pressure on the opposition, making him a key player for India.
Running between the wickets remains a crucial aspect of cricket, even in the era of big shots and fast-scoring games. These five players exemplify the importance of quick running, constantly keeping the pressure on the opposition, and showcasing the art of converting ones into twos.
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