Former South African cricketer Jacques Kallis thinks England's Ben Stokes and India's Hardik Pandya are the best all-rounders in contemporary cricket. The former star answered the question of who is the best all-rounder among them.
Kallis claims that Hardik Pandya and Ben Stokes are world-class all-rounders. Both of them are bringing out the best for their team. Kallis told NDTV that it is a healthy competition between the two. Jacques Kallis, who has been a strong all-rounder throughout his career, said that Hardik Pandya and Ben Stokes belong to a rare breed of players who need to be looked after. He believes that both Pandya and Stokes will make a big impact on their respective team's fortunes in the upcoming ICC T20 World Cup 2022 in Australia. Both the all-rounders seem to have the same style.
28-year-old Hardik Pandya, who plays for India in all three formats, is one of the most impactful players in contemporary cricket. He has 532 runs and 17 wickets with a century in 11 Tests in his career. Besides he also has the best record in IPL. Meanwhile, 31-year-old Ben Stokes is an all-rounder who is already being described as a modern-day great. The player has a good record, especially in Tests. Scored 5429 runs in 86 matches with 12 centuries, one double century, and 28 fifties. He also took 192 wickets.
Speaking to NDTV, Kallis said, "These two (Hardik Pandya and Ben Stokes) are world-class all-rounders. All-rounders are something you need to look after; they don't come around often. I am sure both of them will play a big role for their respective teams. It will be a good battle between both of them,"
Meanwhile, India and South Africa are currently playing a three-match T20I series to prepare for the global event. The former South African all-rounder feels conditions will be different in Australia but the current series will be crucial for their chances in the World Cup. He looked hopeful about his countrymen's prospects in the tournament, backing the going through bad times captain Temba Bavuma.
"I think the team will back him. The coach has come out saying they will back him. And it is a totally different competition, his focus should be entirely on the World Cup. The most important thing for him should be to focus on the World Cup," said Kallis.
Esha Oza currently holds the record for most centuries in WT20Is, with four centuries in the format. Explore the list of players with such century records!
Scoring a century in any form of cricket is a moment of glory, but in the fast-paced format of T20s, it gets more exciting to watch. Numerous cricketers have consistently proved themselves in this format by delivering spectacular tons.
The list goes deep as we have such power-hitters from around the globe!
Join us as we explore the list of players with most centuries in WT20Is and celebrate their glorious innings.
1. Esha Oza (4 centuries) | UAE
Esha Oza in action against Sri Lanka in Asia Cup 2024. Image | ESPNcricinfo
The current captain of UAE, Esha Oza, holds the record for most centuries in WT20Is with 4 centuries in her T20 career so far. This Indian-born cricketer made her debut in T20Is in 2018 and reached this milestone extremely fast.
She is also the fastest player from UAE to reach 1000 runs in T20Is. Her fourth century in T20Is came against Qatar in the Asia Cup qualifier, where she led her team to a brilliant victory.
Chamari Athapaththu celebrating her 113 off 66 balls against Australia in 2019. Image | ESPNcricinfo
Chamari Athapaththu, the current captain of Sri Lanka national team, holds the 2nd position in this list with her 3 centuries in WT20Is. She is one of the finest cricketers from Sri Lanka and led them to win the 2024 Asia Cup.
Chamari scored her first hundred in T20Is in 2019 against Australia. She scored the other following centuries in 2024 against Scotland and Malaysia.
Fatuma Kibasu celebrating her century in 2019. Image | Facebook
The former captain of Tanzania, Fatuma Kibasu, holds the 3rd position with her 3 centuries in WT20Is. She is the only Tanzanian woman to score a century at international level so far, and holds the highest individual score for her country in WT20Is.
Fatuma made her T20 debut in 2019 and played magnificently ever since!
Cricket has always been a bridge across cultures, a phenomenon that connects players with fans from all around the world. Situations often force people to migrate from one country to the other. There have been instances when cricketers were born in different nations but ultimately played for a different country.
Let's take a look at the cricket facts of cricketers who didn't play for their country.
Cricket Facts | Cricketers who didn't play for their country
5. Glenn Phillips (South Africa-born)
New Zealand cricket all-rounder Glenn Philips moved from East London, South Africa to New Zealand at the age of five. He pursued his education in New Zealand, where he began his cricket journey. Having made his domestic debut with Auckland, he signed with Otago to play alongside his brother, Dale Phillips, in 2022. Interestingly, he made his international debut against South Africa, the country where he was born.
4. Ish Sodhi (India-born)
Inderbir Singh 'Ish' Sodhi was born in Ludhiana, India, on October 31, 1992, and spent his early years in New Zealand. He made his New Zealand debut as a leg-spinner in 2013, and since then, he has been a reliable performer in limited-overs forms, contributing significantly to the country's T20 World Cup campaigns.
3. Devon Conway (South Africa-born)
After playing for Gauteng and the Highveld Lions, Devon Conway moved to New Zealand in 2017 and made an immediate impact. He was the leading run-scorer in both the 2018-19 Plunket Shield (659) and 2018-19 Super Smash (363). Conway became eligible to play for New Zealand in August 2020 and has since become a key player for them across all formats. He averages 36.72 after 27 Tests and has also made 36 ODI and 50 T20I appearances.
2. Marnus Labuschagne (South Africa-born)
Marnus Labuschagne was born in Klerksdorp, in South Africa. His family moved to Australia when he was 10. Labuschagne made his Australia debut in Tests in 2018, after Steve Smith suffered an injury during the Ashes tour. Since then the prolific batter has emulated the batting prowess of his best friend and has not looked back.
Speaking of his impressive international cricket career for Australia, Marnus Labuschagne has played 57 Tests, scoring 4396 runs with 11 centuries, and played 63 ODIs, scoring 1869 runs with two centuries. He has also played one T20I match.
Ben Stokes was born in Christchurch, New Zealand, in June 1991. His family moved to Cumbria when Stokes was 12 years old after his father was appointed head coach at Workington Town Rugby League Club.
Stokes has played for England in all three formats. Stokes is regarded as one of England's greatest all-rounders in the history of the sport. In domestic cricket, he represents Durham and has played in multiple Twenty20 leagues around the world. He was part of the England team that won the 2019 Cricket World Cup and 2022 T20 World Cup.
From Pandya to Curran: Meet the Cricket brothers who ruled world cricket
From legendary pairs to modern-day stars, the world of cricket has got family on the field throughout. Meet the cricket brothers who ruled the world of cricket.
The bond of brothers is often strong, but when it extends to the cricket field, the results can be spectacular. We have witnessed such amazing pairs across the globe.
From Pandya brothers to Curran and Pathans, meet the cricket brothers who ruled world cricket. Read till the end to discover the pairs you didn't know about!
Pandya Brothers (Hardik Pandya & Krunal Pandya) | India
Hardik Pandya and Krunal Pandya playing for Mumbai Indians in IPL 2017. Image | Hindustan Times
The Pandya brothers are currently the most popular pair from India, known for their hard-hitting capabilities with the bat, and surprise bowling impact on the team. They started their career playing for their home city, Baroda, and later made their way to Mumbai Indians in IPL.
Hardik Pandya made his International debut in 2016 for India, and has been an integral part of the team ever since. His heroic contributions under pressure is something the nation will never forget. He also led India as a captain in 16 T20 matches, winning 10 among them.
Krunal Pandya debuted for India in 2018, which was only 2 years after his IPL debut for MI. In 2021, he became the fastest Indian to score a ODI half century in a debut match. He scored it off just 26 balls against England.
Curran Brothers (Sam Curran & Tom Curran) | England
Tom Curran and Sam Curran playing for the England Cricket Team. Image | Pinterest
The Curran Brothers are brilliant all-rounder pair from England. They both made their international debut at a young age and have evolved to be a popular name in the cricketing world.
Sam Curran is a key player for England, known for his brilliant transformation from bowling all-rounder to being equally aggressive with the bat. He was a part of the T20 World Cup winning squad in 2022.
Tom Curran made his debut for England at the age of 22, and has served as an efficient bowling all-rounder for his nation.
They also have another brother, Ben Curran, who currently plays for Zimbabwe national team.
Pathan Brothers (Yusuf and Irfan Pathan) | India
Yusuf Pathan and Irfan Pathan playing for their respective franchises in IPL 2016. Image | Instagram
The Pathan brothers played for India and earned worldwide recognition. Both were a part of the T20 World Cup winning squad of India in 2007.
Yusuf Pathan is the elder one, known for his explosive batting, especially in the limit overs format. His six-hitting abilities and raw power has significant impact of teams.
Irfan Pathan's swing bowling and batting contributions made him a fan favourite. He played as a vital all-rounder for India, especially during memorable victories.
Morkel Brothers (Albie Morkel & Morne Morkel) | South Africa
Morne Morkel and Albie Morkel playeing for their respective franchises during IPL 2012. Image | Facebook
The Morkel brothers represented South Africa and were one of the finest cricketers who played a major role behind the team's success. They became the first brothers in 56 years to be named as South African Cricket Annual cricketer of the year in the same season, in 2008.
Albie Morkel is the older brother, who played as a batting all-rounder, contributing by his powerful hitting.
Morne Morkel is a tall right-arm fast bowler, whose ability to generate pace and bounce made him an integral bowler in the bowling attack. He is currently the bowling coach of Indian Cricket Team, since 2024.
Chahar Brothers (Deepak & Rahul Chahar) | India
Deepak Chahar and Rahul Chahar playing for their respective franchises in IPL 2019. Image | ESPNcricinfo
The Chahar brothers are another pair of brothers who represents India in both ODI and T20 formats.
Deepak Chahar is the older one, who is a right-arm medium bowler and can also contribute with the bat. He took 6 wickets for 7 runs against Bangladesh in 2019, which is the best bowling figures in T20Is for India.
Rahul Chahar is the younger one, who is a right-arm leg-breal bowler. He made his IPL debut at only 17 years of age and strengthened the spin unit of his team.
Hussey Brothers (Michael Hussey & David Hussey) | Australia
Michael Hussey and David Hussey playing for their respective franchises in Big Bash League in 2015. Image | dailytelegraph.com
The Hussey brothers are another extremely popular pair in the world of cricket, hailing from Australia. They dominated the field with their batting power and consistency.
Michael Hussey was given the nickname "Mr. Cricket" because of his strong performances across all formats. He is one of the batting legends of the Australian team, having a highly successful career.
David Hussey is the younger brother who was more prominent in ODIs and T20Is than in Tests. He usually played as a right-handed batter, occasionally bowling off-break for the team.
Akmal Brothers (Karman Akmal & Umar Akmal) | Pakistan
Karman Akmal and Umar Akmal during their practice session for the Pakistan national team. Image | crictoday
The Akmal brothers played major roles representing Pakistan in International Cricket. They are basically a trip of cricketers, and all of them has played for the national team.
Karman Akmal is the eldest, who played as a wicket-keeper batsman. He has stuck with the team for a long time and was also am integral part of Pakistan's winning squad in the 2019 T20 World Cup.
Umar Akmal is known for his aggressive batting style who is also a popular name in the history of cricket in Pakistan.
As mentioned above, they are a trio, and Adnan Akmal is the youngest one among them. He also represented Pakistan in Tests and ODIs.
The cricketing bloodline flows through their family, as they are also the cousins of Pakistan's former captain Babar Azam.
Marsh Brothers (Shaun Marsh & Mitchell Marsh) | Australia
Mitchell Marsh celebrating with his brother Shaun Marsh during a test match in 2014. Image | NDTV
The Marsh brothers are Australian brother pair, representing their country at the highest level. They became the third pair to score a century in the same test innings for Australia, in 2017-18 Ashes series against England.
Shaun Marsh is the elder one, who played as a top-order batter for his country. He also became the highest run-scorer in the inaugural season of IPL in 2008, and holds the record for highest individual score by an uncapped overseas player (115*) in IPL history.
Mitchell Marsh is an all-rounder, who strengthens the middle order of the team, but also has the ability to come early and give a good start. He scored 177* runs against Bangladesh in 2023, which is the third highest individual score by Australian in ODI World Cup.
Bravo Brothers (Dwayne Bravo & Darren Bravo) | West Indies
Darren Bravo and Dwayne Bravo posing for a picture during their tenure in respective franchises in IPL 2017. Image | crictoday.com
The Bravo Brothers are notable pair of cricket stars from West Indies. They are half brothers as they share the same father but different mothers.
Dwayne Bravo is a key player for West Indies cricket team, who is an all-rounder, known for his dynamic bowling and aggressive batting. He is among the most successful T20 players globally. Dwayne as been a part of the team in memorable winning ICC tournaments.
Darren Bravo is the younger one, who also represented West Indies in international cricket as a left-handed batsman. He majorly played in ODI cricket and Tests, and was less prominent in T20s.
McCullum Brothers (Nathan McCullum & Brendon McCullum) | New Zealand
Nathan and Brendon McCullum representing New Zealand during a T20 match in 2010. Image | ESPNcricinfo
The McCullum brothers are a popular pair in the history of New Zealand cricket. They have a strong sporting family background.
Nathan McCullum played as a off-break bowler and was a useful lower-order batsman. He was a part of the New Zealand squad that reached the World Cup final in 2015.
Brendon McCullum is regarded as one or the most influential cricketers. He is a wicket-keeper batsman, known for his aggressive batting and quick run scoring abilities. He holds the record for fastest test century by scoring one off 54 balls in 2016.
Lee brothers (Brett Lee & Shane Lee) | Australia
Brett Lee and Shane Lee representing Australia | ESPNcricinfo
The Lee brothers are a pair of cricket brothers who represented Australia.
Shane Lee is the elder one and all-rounder, who was was in the World Cup winning Australia squad of 1999. He played 45 ODIs and retired in the age of 29 due to knee injury.
Brett Lee is one of the fastest bowlers in the history of cricket. He played for Australia in all three formats and was a dominant bowler. Lee holds the record for second-most wickets taken by an Australian in ODIs.
Waugh Brothers (Steve Waugh & Mark Waugh) | Australia
Steve Waugh and Mark Waugh during their tenure playing for Australian cricket team. Image | ESPNcricinfo
The Waugh brothers are iconic figures of Australiam cricket. They are identical twins and both played at the highest level.
Steve Waugh is regarded as one of the greatest captains in cricket history. He is often nicknamed as "Tugga." He is Australia's most capped test player and holds 16 consecutive test wins and other batting records.
Mark Waugh is nicknamed as "Junior," and was known for his elegant style of play. He played as a top-order batsman for the team, and was an integral part throughout 1990s and early 2000s.
Flower Brothers (Andu Flower & Grant Flower) | Zimbabwe
Andy Flower and Grant Flower posing for a picture before their practice session for Zimbabwe. Image | Facebook
The Flower brothers are most celebrated sibling pair from Zimbabwe cricket team. They formed the backbone of the team's batting line-up.
Andy Flower is Zimbabwe's greatest cricketer and one of the finest wicketkeeper batsman. He holds numerous batting records and have captained, as well as coached the Zimbabwe national team.
Grant Flower is the younger brother, played as the opening batsman and slow left-arm orthodox bowler. He contributed brilliantly with the bat, forming crucial partnerships with his brother.
Mumbai Indians are one of the most successful teams in IPL history. They’ve won the title five times and are known for having some of the best bowlers in the league.
Throughout the seasons, MI has produced some of the finest bowling talents of the modern era. The combination of legendary pacers and crafty spinners has played a huge role in their success.
Jasprit Bumrah celebrating his wicket against CSK. Image | Jagran English
Since his debut in 2013, Jasprit Bumrah has been the leader of MI's bowling attack. He is known for his pin-point yorkers, deceptive slower balls and as a death over specialist. With 174 wickets, Bumrah has surpassed Lasith Malinga as the highest wicket taker for MI including his best figures 5/10.
Lasith Malinga enjoying his last IPL campaign in 2019. Image | The Indian Express
Slinga Malinga is undoubtedly MI's one of the most iconic players. Known for his deadly yorkers and unorthodox bowling action, Malinga was MI's leading wicket taker throught the seasons. With the best figures of 5/13, he was the purple cap holder in the 4th edition of the IPL.
3. Harbhajan Singh (2008-2017, 127 wickets)
Harbhajan Singh during his time in Mumbai Indians. Image | IndiaTV
The Turbanator, Harbhajan Singh was a crucial bowler during his tenure in MI. Being an experienced off-spinner, he provided control and important break-throughs in the middle overs. His best bowling figures of 5/18 came in the 4th edition and he also played an important role in MI's 1st title.
4. Mitchell McClenaghan (2015-2019, 71 wickets)
Mitchell McClenaghan celebrating a wicket. Image | Mumbai Indians
McClenaghan was known for aggressive bowling which helped him bag wickets during crucial moments. With his fierce pace, the kiwi added firepower to MI's bowling attack. He has the best bowling figure of 4/21 against Gujrat Lions in the 2016 season.
5. Kieron Pollard (2010-2022, 69 wickets)
Kieron Pollard during his time in Mumbai Indians. Image | ESPNcricinfo
Being an all-rounder, Kieron Pollard has made some key contributions as a medium pacer for MI. Often called the "man with the golden arm", Pollard had knack for breaking partnerships during crunch situations. He has his career-best figures of 4/44 against the Rajasthan Royals.
6. Hardik Pandya (2015- 2025, 65* wickets)
Hardik Pandya celebrating a wicket. Image | The Statesman
The current captain of MI, Hardik Pandya is known for his versatility in his bowling. Though he can be expensive at times, Pandya has delivered wickets during the powerplay, middle overs, and at the death. With the best figures of 5/36, he has been one of the key players for MI over many years.
Krunal Pandya celebrating a wicket for the Mumbai Indians. Image | Times Of India
Krunal Pandya was known for his tight bowling during the middle overs. With his economical bowling, he had the ability to control the run-rate and bowl during pressure situations. Krunal proved to be a valuable asset to the MI's squad and has the best bowling figures of 5/36.
Mumbai Indians have madeIPL history by becoming the first team to defend a total of 200 or more runs in five consecutive matches. They have achieved this after beating Lucknow Super Giants by 54 runs in the afternoon clash.
This record feat shows their strong batting line up supported by a confident and effective bowling attack that’s been handling pressure effortlessly.
Ryan Rickelton on the way to his half century versus LSG. Image | ap7am
1. MI vs LSG, IPL 2025 Match 45
Opener Ryan Rickelton and Suryakumar Yadavsmashed half centuries to set the tone as MI posted a formidable total of 215. Jasprit Bumrah and Trent bolt took crucial wickets to bowl out LSG for 161 and win by 54 runs.
2. MI vs DC, IPL 2025 Match 29
MI posted a total of 205 with an all-round bating performance and snatched the match out of DC's grasp with 3 consecutive runouts in the 19th over.
3. MI vs DC, IPL 2024 Match 20
Both the openers of MI fired as they posted a massive total of 234 and defended it by quickly chipping through their middle order with Gerald Coetzee standing out taking 4 wickets.
4. MI vs GT, IPL 2023 Match 57
Suryakumar Yadav's unbeaten 103 helped MI post 218 on the board. GT's top order failed to give a good start with Rashid Khan giving some hopes but came too late in the chase as MI won the match by 27 runs.
Ishan kishan and Suryakumar Yadav's innings helped MI post a massive total of 235 which was defended with an all-round bowling performance winning the match by 42 runs.
Reasons for the unbeaten record
Rohit Sharma, Jasprit Bumrah, Hardik Pandya, Suryakumar Yadav and Tilak Verma(from left to right). Image | CricTips
Aggressive Batting- The top and middle-order batters have been consistently firing. Rohit Sharma and Suryakumar Yadav have laid solid foundations, while the likes of Tilak Varma, and Hardik Pandya have provided fireworks.
Strategic Bowling- Jasprit Bumrah’s form has been a massive boost. Combined with the clever variations from Deepak Chahar, the pace of Trent Boult, and the all-round contributions from Hardik Pandya, MI has found a winning combination.
Strong Leadership- Despite early criticisms, the leadership has found its rhythm. Smart field placements, timely bowling changes, and calm under pressure have played key roles in the streak.
After the win versus LSG, MI have climbed to number 3 position in the points table securing their 5th consecutive win in this tournament. The last time MI did that, they went on to win the title. The upcoming fixtures of MI:
MI vs RR
1st May
Away
MI vs GT
6th May
Home
MI vs PBKS
11th May
Away
MI vs DC
15th May
Home
If MI continues with their current form then they are surely one of the top contenders for the 2025 IPL title.