Jasprit Bumrah removed, Pakistan player given the summit! Kagiso Rabada ranks legendary ODI pacers
Kagiso Rabada Ranks Legendary ODI Pacers in Blind Ranking
South African fast bowler Kagiso Rabada recently participated in a blind ranking of legendary ODI pacers during an interview on the Beard Before Wicket Podcast. This ranking included renowned names such as Waqar Younis, Jasprit Bumrah, Mitchell Starc, and more. Rabada, known for his prowess on the cricket field, placed former Pakistan bowler Waqar Younis at the top of the list, highlighting Younis’ exceptional ability to reverse swing the ball.
Rabada’s Top Picks
Rabada’s blind ranking showcased his deep knowledge of the game, with Younis claiming the top spot for his impressive record in One Day Internationals. Younis, who picked up 416 wickets in 262 ODIs at an average of 23.84, is considered one of the greatest pacers in cricket history. Following Younis, Rabada named South African legends Dale Steyn and Shaun Pollock as second and third, respectively.
Steyn, with 196 ODI wickets at an average of 25.95, and Pollock, with 393 wickets at an average of 24.50, have left a lasting impact on the sport. Pollock, in particular, ranks as the sixth-highest wicket-taker in ODI history, further solidifying his position as a cricket icon.
Notable Players in the Ranking
Rabada’s ranking also included top performers like Jasprit Bumrah, Brett Lee, Trent Boult, and Mitchell Starc. Bumrah, known for his consistency across all game phases, secured the fourth position with 149 wickets in 89 ODIs at an average of 23.55. Australian pacer Brett Lee, a key player in Australia’s 2003 ODI World Cup win, claimed the fifth spot with 380 wickets at an average of 23.36.
New Zealand’s Trent Boult and Australia’s Mitchell Starc followed in sixth and seventh place, respectively. Boult has taken 211 wickets at an average of 24.38, while Starc boasts 244 wickets at an average of 23.40, showcasing their dominance in the world of ODI cricket.
Rabada’s Final Rankings
In a surprising turn, Rabada placed himself last in his blind ranking of top ODI pacers. He humbly took the tenth spot, acknowledging the talent and achievements of veteran bowlers like Stuart Broad and Chaminda Vaas. Broad, with 178 wickets at an average of 30.13, and Vaas, with a remarkable 400 wickets in 322 matches, exemplify excellence in the world of ODI cricket.
Overall, Rabada’s ranking shed light on the remarkable careers of legendary pacers who have graced the cricket field with their skill and passion for the game. Each player mentioned in the ranking has left an indelible mark on the sport, inspiring future generations of fast bowlers to aim for greatness.
Kagiso Rabada’s Analysis of Legendary ODI Pacers
During the blind ranking of legendary ODI pacers, Kagiso Rabada’s choices offered a glimpse into the mind of a modern cricketing talent appreciating the skills of past and current greats. His decision to place Waqar Younis at the top of the list showcases a deep respect for the art of reverse swing bowling, a skill that has become less common in today’s game but remains invaluable in certain conditions.
Rabada’s selection of Dale Steyn and Shaun Pollock in the second and third spots, respectively, highlights his admiration for his fellow South African bowlers. Steyn’s express pace and ability to generate movement off the pitch have made him a feared bowler in all formats of the game, while Pollock’s accuracy and consistency have earned him a place among the elite of ODI cricket.
It is interesting to note Rabada’s inclusion of Jasprit Bumrah in his top picks, recognizing the Indian bowler’s unique skills that have made him a standout performer in recent years. Bumrah’s unorthodox action and pinpoint accuracy have troubled batsmen around the world, cementing his reputation as a premier fast bowler in the limited-overs format.
Brett Lee’s presence in the top rankings is a testament to the Australian speedster’s impact on the game during his playing days. Lee’s sheer pace and aggressive bowling style made him a formidable opponent for any batsman, and his impressive record speaks to his effectiveness in ODIs.
New Zealand’s Trent Boult and Australia’s Mitchell Starc rounding up the top rankings further emphasize the global nature of fast bowling talent in ODI cricket. Boult’s ability to swing the ball both ways and Starc’s lethal left-arm deliveries have made them key figures in their respective teams’ bowling attacks, showcasing the diversity of skills among top pacers.
Rabada’s Humility in Self-Ranking
Rabada’s decision to place himself last in the blind ranking reflects his modesty and respect for the achievements of other bowlers in the game. By acknowledging the accomplishments of players like Stuart Broad and Chaminda Vaas, Rabada demonstrates a maturity beyond his years and a recognition of the legacy left by those who paved the way for the current generation of fast bowlers.
Stuart Broad’s inclusion in the ranking highlights the English seamer’s longevity and adaptability in different conditions, solidifying his status as a key player in England’s bowling lineup. Chaminda Vaas, on the other hand, stands out for his remarkable consistency and ability to take wickets consistently over a long career, making him a role model for aspiring bowlers.
In conclusion, Kagiso Rabada’s blind ranking of legendary ODI pacers not only sheds light on the talents of past and present cricketing greats but also underscores the camaraderie and mutual respect that exists among players in the sport. By recognizing the skills and contributions of his peers, Rabada pays tribute to the rich history of fast bowling in ODI cricket and sets a positive example for future generations of bowlers to follow.


