On-field to off-field: Cricketers turned Commentators Best XI

The importance of commentary and a good broadcast in sport especially cricket is invaluable. Be it technical analysis or heightening the drama, the men behind the mic play a very important role in making the game more engaging for the viewers. It has been a tradition since time immemorial for ex-cricketers to become commentators as they can analyse the specific situations well and give a lot of insights as they have played the game. Let us have a look at the best XI of cricketers turned commentators

Openers:

1. Sunil Gavaskar

The original master blaster has had an extensive career as a commentator and recently completed 30 years in this field. Gavaskar who is one of the most successful batsmen ever has always been respected for his valuable insights and in recent times, his playful humour has also become something that fans enjoy.

2. Ramiz Raja

Ramiz Raja is one of the most entertaining commentators to listen to. He has made a name for himself as an eloquent commentator who brings up fun anecdotes every now and then.

Middle Order:

3. Sanjay Manjrekar

A commentator who minces no words and has very frank opinions is Sanjay Manjrekar. A very good analyst, Manjrekar doesn’t shy away from making controversial statements and has come under fire for the same in recent times, but he has always made it a point to justify his opinions.

4. Nasser Hussain

A man with a brilliant diction and vocabulary, great reading of the game and unbiased opinions, Nasser Hussain is easily one of the most complete commentators of today’s time. He is a pleasure to listen to and always talks about aspects that add value to the viewer.

5. Sourav Ganguly(c)

A sharp mind with a keen sense of observation for the game, Ganguly has had a successful stint as a commentator. He has donned several hats including the captain of the Indian team and is currently serving as the BCCI president. Ganguly has always been praised for having clarity of thought and being lucid in his explanations.

Lower Middle Order:

6. Ravi Shastri

Ravi Shastri is fortunate to have been behind the mic during some of the most iconic moments in Indian cricket including 2007 and 2011 World Cup wins and it won’t be an exaggeration to say his voice has made those moments even more iconic. An enthusiastic, booming voice with great energy and one-liners such as ‘to the boundary like a tracer bullet’ have made Shastri a fan favourite.

7. Adam Gilchrist(wk)

Adam Gilchrist, one of the most iconic Australian players has started his commentary career recently but already seems perfectly suited for the role. He has a charming persona and his light-hearted discussions coupled with his understanding of the game especially from a wicketkeeper’s perspective has been phenomenal.

Bowlers:

8. Shane Warne

Shane Warne had several controversies in his glittering career as a player but is highly appreciated for his views as a commentator. He too minces no words and isn’t afraid of criticising popular players or strategies. His predictions in the commentary box turn out to be correct a number of times as well.

9. Michael Holding

Michael Holding is easily the most respected commentator in today’s time. With a goosebump-inducing baritone and crystal-clear opinions, Holding makes games a lot more interesting. Holding too doesn’t hold back in speaking his mind and even been a constant detractor of T20 cricket especially IPL.

10. Ian Bishop

‘Carlos Brathwaite, remember the name’. This iconic line came from none other than Ian Bishop. A good fast bowler whose career was cut short due to injuries; Bishop has established himself as a top commentator in the last couple of decades. His reading of the game like Hussain’s is top-notch, his research about lesser-known players is absolutely thorough and his impactful voice is the cherry on the cake.

11. Danny Morrison

Easily the most entertaining commentator ever, Danny Morrison with his famous terms such as ‘Double Ds’ and ‘Double Rs’ has created a large following for himself. The viewers love his theatrics which adds the extra spice in viewing matches especially T20 leagues. But even aside from his mannerisms, Morrison has a great grip over the proceedings of the game.