NEW DELHI: New Zealand’s batting icon Kane Williamson shared his vision for the next era of cricketing greatness during an exclusive conversation with senior journalist K. Srinivas Rao on TimesofIndia.com’s latest episode of Bombay Sport Exchange.
When asked to name his “next Fab Four,” Williamson chuckled and replied, “The five players that come to mind would be Yashasvi Jaiswal (India), Shubman Gill (India), Rachin Ravindra (New Zealand), Harry Brook (England) and Cameron Green from Australia.”
Coming from a player who is himself part of the modern “Fab Four” alongside Virat Kohli, Steve Smith, and Joe Root, this endorsement carries tremendous weight.
With over 9,276 Test runs at an average of 54.9, including 33 centuries, Williamson’s words reflect not just respect but a keen eye for future legends.
Yashasvi Jaiswal (India)
The young Indian opener is enjoying a meteoric rise in the longer format, having already scored 1,798 runs in 19 Tests at an average of 52.9, including 4 centuries.
His calm temperament and aggressive shot-making have made him a force at the top of the order.
He was also part of India’s T20 World Cup-winning team, showing his growing presence in white-ball cricket, although he is yet to make his ODI debut.
Shubman Gill (India)
Gill’s classical style and adaptability have seen him become a regular in all three formats.
In Tests, he has scored 1,893 runs in 32 matches with 5 centuries, averaging 35.
While he hasn’t quite replicated his white-ball dominance in the Test arena, he is widely regarded as the future captain of India’s white-ball sides, thanks to his maturity and consistency in ODIs and T20Is.
Who’s that IPL player?
Rachin Ravindra (New Zealand)
One of the most consistent and dependable new faces in the New Zealand setup, Rachin has been a key figure across all formats.
In Tests, he’s scored 1,057 runs in 15 matches, averaging 37.8, with 2 centuries, including a career-best 240.
His ability to slot into any role and contribute with both bat and ball makes him an all-format asset for the Kiwis.
Harry Brook (England)
Harry Brook has been a revelation in red-ball cricket for England.
In just 24 Tests, he has amassed 2,281 runs at a stunning average of 58.5, with 8 centuries and a high score of 317.
His explosive style and aggression align perfectly with England’s “Bazball” strategy.
Recognizing his potential as a leader and limited-overs performer, Brook has now been appointed England’s white-ball captain, marking a new chapter in his career.
Cameron Green (Australia)
Despite battling recent injuries, Cameron Green remains a crucial all-rounder for Australia, offering balance with both bat and ball.
In Tests, he’s scored 1,377 runs in 28 matches at an average of 36.2, with 2 centuries and a top score of 174*.
His 13 sixes and 152 fours reflect his ability to shift gears, and when fully fit, Green is a game-changer in all three formats.
Williamson’s nod to these five reflects both current performance and future potential.
As the “Fab Four” era edges toward its twilight, this “Fab Five” could well be the torchbearers of the next golden generation of Test cricket.
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