NEW DELHI: In a revealing conversation with senior journalist K. Shriniwas Rao on TimesofIndia.com’s latest episode of Bombay Sport Exchange, New Zealand’s batting legend Kane Williamson shared his vision for the future of cricket, naming what he believes to be the "next Fab Five" of the sport. This group, which Williamson selected with great thought, includes bright young talents Yashasvi Jaiswal and Shubman Gill from India, Rachin Ravindra from New Zealand, England's Harry Brook, and Australia's Cameron Green.
Williamson, who is himself a part of the current "Fab Four" alongside Virat Kohli, Steve Smith, and Joe Root, emphasized the significance of these players, stating, "The five players that come to mind would be Yashasvi Jaiswal, Shubman Gill, Rachin Ravindra, Harry Brook, and Cameron Green." His endorsement carries immense weight, given his impressive career statistics, which include over 9,276 Test runs at an average of 54.9, alongside 33 centuries.
Among the players Williamson highlighted, Yashasvi Jaiswal stands out with a meteoric rise in international cricket. The young Indian opener has already scored 1,798 runs in just 19 Tests at an impressive average of 52.9, including four centuries. His calm temperament combined with aggressive shot-making has made him a formidable force at the top of the order. Jaiswal also played a crucial role in India’s T20 World Cup-winning team, showcasing his versatility, although he is yet to make his ODI debut.
Shubman Gill, another key player in Williamson's lineup, has proven his mettle across all formats of the game. With 1,893 runs in 32 Test matches, including five centuries and an average of 35, Gill’s classical style and adaptability have made him a mainstay in the Indian side. He is seen as a future captain for India’s white-ball teams, thanks to his maturity and consistency in ODIs and T20Is.
Rachin Ravindra has emerged as one of New Zealand's most reliable players. In his 15 Tests, he has amassed 1,057 runs at an average of 37.8, including two centuries, with a career-best score of 240. His ability to contribute significantly with both bat and ball makes him an invaluable asset for the Blackcaps.
Harry Brook has been nothing short of a revelation in red-ball cricket for England. In just 24 Tests, he has scored 2,281 runs at a remarkable average of 58.5, with eight centuries and a high score of 317. His explosive batting style aligns perfectly with England’s aggressive "Bazball" approach to the game. Recently appointed as England’s white-ball captain, Brook is set to lead the charge in a new chapter of his career.
Cameron Green, despite facing challenges with injuries, remains a pivotal all-rounder for Australia. With 1,377 runs in 28 Tests at an average of 36.2, including two centuries and a top score of 174*, Green’s ability to change the game with both bat and ball is undeniable. His 13 sixes and 152 fours indicate his capacity to shift gears and dominate when fully fit.
Williamson’s selection of this "next Fab Five" not only reflects their current performance but also a belief in their potential to lead cricket into a new golden era. As the current "Fab Four" era edges toward its twilight, this new generation could very well take up the mantle of greatness in Test cricket.
As cricket fans eagerly look forward to the upcoming matches, the spotlight is on these young stars, each poised to make a significant impact in the sport. The IPL 2025 season is just around the corner, and fans can expect to see Jaiswal, Gill, and others showcasing their skills on a grand stage. Stay tuned for live updates, match schedules, and player performances as the cricketing world prepares for an exciting season ahead.
