AB de Villiers releases Top 10 Best ODI batsmen rankings, Virat Kohli given this position..

AB de Villiers releases Top 10 Best ODI batsmen rankings, Virat Kohli given this position..

AB de Villiers, the former South Africa skipper and renowned batter, recently participated in a blind-ranking exercise of top ODI batters, including some of India’s cricketing legends. This interesting revelation took place during his appearance on the popular YouTube podcast ‘Beard Before Wicket.’ Known for his spectacular performances on the cricket field, de Villiers retired from all forms of cricket in November 2021 but made a stunning comeback in the World Championship of Legends (WCL 2025), leading the South Africa Champions to victory in the T20 tournament as captain, despite his absence from professional cricket for years.

During the blind-ranking session, de Villiers placed Virat Kohli at the top spot, followed closely by himself in second place. Notably, Sachin Tendulkar, often regarded as one of the greatest batters of all time, was ranked fourth on the list. Other prominent international players featured in the rankings included Ricky Ponting, Hashim Amla, and Kumar Sangakkara. The list was rounded off with Babar Azam and David Warner in the ninth and tenth positions, respectively.

Having played 228 ODIs and accumulated an impressive total of 9,577 runs at an average of 53.50, including 25 centuries, de Villiers showcased his deep knowledge and understanding of the game through his rankings. Despite his retirement, de Villiers continues to command respect and admiration in the cricketing world, evident from his keen insights and contributions to the sport.

In the context of Indian cricket, de Villiers highlighted that among the active ODI batters from India, Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma stand out. While Kohli boasts an impressive record of 14,181 runs in 302 matches at an average of 57.88, Sharma has accumulated 11,168 runs in 273 games. Both players have been instrumental in India’s cricketing success, with Kohli playing a crucial role in the team’s recent triumph at the 2025 Champions Trophy.

Reflecting on his partnership with Kohli, de Villiers described the experience as “absolutely incredible,” emphasizing their shared approach to the game characterized by agility, strategic play, and attacking prowess. The duo holds the record for the highest partnership runs by a pair in a single IPL season, underlining their remarkable synergy on the field.

Overall, de Villiers’ blind rankings and insights into the world of cricket provide fans and enthusiasts with a unique perspective on the sport’s leading figures and their impact on the game. As a cricketing icon himself, de Villiers continues to inspire and engage audiences with his deep passion for the sport and his enduring legacy in the cricketing world.

AB de Villiers’ Impact on the World of Cricket

AB de Villiers’ recent participation in the blind-ranking exercise of top ODI batters sheds light on his enduring legacy and deep understanding of the game. Having retired from professional cricket in 2021, de Villiers made a remarkable comeback in the World Championship of Legends (WCL 2025), showcasing his exceptional talent and leadership skills. His ability to lead the South Africa Champions to victory in the T20 tournament after years away from the sport speaks volumes about his unparalleled cricketing prowess.

In the blind-ranking session, de Villiers placed Virat Kohli at the top spot, underscoring the Indian skipper’s remarkable achievements and consistency in the ODI format. Kohli’s exceptional record of 14,181 runs at an average of 57.88 highlights his dominance in the world of cricket. De Villiers’ recognition of Kohli’s talent and impact on the game reinforces the mutual respect shared among top players in the cricketing fraternity.

Furthermore, de Villiers’ ranking of himself in the second position exemplifies his humility and self-awareness as a player. With an impressive ODI record of 9,577 runs at an average of 53.50, de Villiers’ contribution to the sport is undeniable. His ability to assess and appreciate the skills of his fellow competitors underscores his sportsmanship and admiration for the game.

Additionally, de Villiers’ insights into the Indian cricketing landscape highlight the exceptional talent and contributions of players like Rohit Sharma. With 11,168 runs in 273 matches, Sharma’s consistency and ability to perform under pressure have earned him a place among India’s cricketing legends. De Villiers’ acknowledgment of Sharma’s prowess further enriches the discussion on top ODI batters and their impact on the game.

Moreover, de Villiers’ reflections on his partnership with Kohli offer a glimpse into the dynamic synergy between two cricketing giants. Their shared approach to the game, marked by agility, strategic play, and attacking prowess, has resulted in memorable performances and record-breaking partnerships. The duo’s on-field chemistry and mutual understanding exemplify the power of teamwork and camaraderie in cricket.

Overall, AB de Villiers’ continued involvement in the cricketing world through podcasts and discussions adds a layer of depth and insight for fans and enthusiasts. His enduring passion for the sport, coupled with his astute observations and analysis, solidifies his status as a cricketing icon. De Villiers’ blind rankings and contributions to the sport serve as a testament to his unwavering dedication to cricket and his lasting impact on the game.

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