A Quick Look at Four Popular Godfathers of Cricket

It comes as no surprise that cricket is one of the most popular entertainment options for many people worldwide. Be it in the real field or live online betting spaces like 1Win; the game has an impressive number of viewers, followers, and bettors. This makes even the smallest details about the game and its major events a buzzing topic that Cricket lovers like to discuss. One such question that never seems to fade away is, who is the godfather of cricket?

Overall, this label is usually given to cricketers who have made a massive transformation in the game within their country. This means that across various nations, a handful of players have served as beacons of hope and encouraged the next generation to take up cricket. But who are they?

Actually, there is no absolute king of cricket in the world. This phrase can easily be attributed to multiple key figures from around the globe who have become true icons in the history of the game. Below, we have brought together the four major cricketers who, with their contribution and way of playing, deserve to be called a godfather. So, get comfortable and let's have a look.

Sir Don Bradman (Australia)

An Australian icon, Sir Don Bradman is one of the first names that comes to mind when talking about the godfather of cricket. He is a cricket-history-changing player that printed a solid footstep in the field by reshaping Australian cricket with his immeasurable influence and leadership.

Biography and Contribution

Teams

Donald George Bradman was born in Cootamundra, New South Wales. At age six, there was no organized sport for him, so he watched schoolyard cricket through a gate that separated Bowral's primary and high schools.

When he was 12, Donald Bradman played his first innings on a matting wicket for Bowral High School. Between 1923 and 1925, he played only two cricket games with the Bowral Town Club, but by age 17, he became a regular player.

In reality, Donald Bradman’s dominance in the history of the game is unparalleled. His career batting average of 99.94 stands as an eye-poking achievement that may never be matched. Plus, Bradman’s records, such as his highest score of 334 in a single inning and 12 double centuries, set benchmarks that today’s cricketers strive to reach.

Cricketing Career

Bradman's first appearance was on November 22, 1926, at the Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG) as part of the Southern team against Riverina. Here, he successfully scored 43 runs before being dismissed by rugby star Eric Weissel. Later, Bradman joined Sydney's St George club, and in his first game, he scored his first century on turf.

Bradman played his first innings for New South Wales in a second-eleven match against Victoria in Sydney, which began on January 1, 1927. Here, he scored 43 and eight in that game. In December of that year, he was chosen for the team to tour the southern states, which was the start of his Sheffield Shield debut against South Australia at the Adelaide Oval. In the final match of the season, against Victoria in Sydney, he made his first century at the SCG, scoring 134 runs in 225 minutes.

Recognition and Awards

Overall, Bradman captained Australia in 24 matches - he won 15 and lost just three. His ability to score quickly amazed opponents and thrilled fans. While his batting style wasn't traditionally elegant, it was undeniably powerful.

In 1949, Bradman was knighted, which made him the first Test cricketer and the first Australian cricketer to receive this honor. Later, in 1979, he was awarded the Companion of the Order of Australia (AC) for his contributions to cricket and its administration. In 1996, he was inducted into the Australian Cricket Hall of Fame.

Viv Richards (West Indies)

The next prominent cricketer worth your attention is Sir Vivian Richards. He is a legendary West Indian player who has often been called the most intimidating batsman in history and the father of cricket in India. He played a pivotal role in the dominance of world cricket in the West Indies

during the 1970s and 1980s. What made Viv Richards a true cricketing icon is his fearless batting style and charismatic personality.

Biography and Contribution

Viv Richards was born in 1952 in Antigua. He is the son of Antigua’s top fast bowler Malcolm Richards and followed a family cricket tradition that included two brothers also playing for Antigua. Richards began his international Test career for the West Indies at 22 in 1974. He was a versatile star, amassing over 8,000 Test runs with an average of 50 and 24 centuries.

His debut in India in 1974 was memorable, with 192 runs in his second match and no wickets lost. At his retirement, Richards had an impressive one-day international batting average above 90 His skill played a key role in West Indies' World Cup wins in 1975 and 1979, the latter achieved by a century margin.

Cricketing Career

Richard's cricketing career began in 1974, the year of his Test debut against India. From 1976 to 1983 were the key years of his prime time. During this period, he averaged an impressive 66.51 in Test cricket. In 1984, he underwent eye surgery for pterygium, which affected his vision and reflexes. However, despite that, he kept his spot as a top batsman for the last four years of his career, even though his average declined.

Overall, Richards scored 8,540 runs in 121 Test matches at an average of 50.23 and retired as the West Indies' leading run-scorer, surpassing Garfield Sobers. He also made 1,281 runs in World Series Cricket, often seen as the highest level of the game. As a captain, he won 27 out of 50 Test matches and lost only 8.

Recognition and Awards

Legendary cricketer Viv Richards amazed fans worldwide with his bold playing style. His fearless batting led to impressive records, including the fastest century in Test history and an exceptional average in one-day internationals. Richards also showed strong moral character by opposing apartheid. His cricketing greatness was further established through his achievements

in county cricket with Glamorgan and Somerset. He has been honored with the Sir Vivian Richards Stadium and an OBE, which reflects his lasting impact on the sport.

MS Dhoni (India)

Mahendra Singh Dhoni is the next king of cricket to talk about. He is often referred to as “Captain Cool” and is the former captain of the Indian team. Not once has he led the team to incredible victories to become a champion.

With MS Dhoni as the captain, India won three major ICC titles.

Biography and Contribution

Dhoni was born in 1981 in the eastern Indian state of Jharkhand. He used to play football at school, but following his coach's advice, he changed to playing cricket.

As the captain of CSK, he has led the franchise to 10 finals and won five titles. With his leadership, Dhoni made the team the most consistent one in the IPL. Dhoni was a team captain for CSK for a record period of time, as no other player had captained an IPL for such a long time.

He also had an eye for unconventional talents and gave them a chance in the field. Players like Ravindra Jadeja and Jasprit Bumrah are great examples of this.

Cricketing Career

Dhoni’s first-class debut happened in 1999 when he played for Bihar. In 2004, he started his career with the Indian Cricket Team, playing against Bangladesh. In 2007, Dhoni was selected to be the team captain for ODIs, and in 2008, he was the captain in all formats.

Although Dhoni retired in 2014, he occasionally played limited-overs until 2019. In his long and successful career, Dhoni has played in 538 international games and scored 17,266 runs.

Recognition and Awards

Dhoni is undoubtedly one of the most revered and respected figures in Indian cricket history. In 2008, India’s most respected and highest sports award, the Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award, was given to Dhoni to honor his contributions. In 2009, he received the Padma Bhushan award, the fourth-highest civilian award.

In 2011, the Indian Army offered Dhoni the honorary rank of Lieutenant Colonel in the Parachute Regiment of the Indian Territorial Army.

Shakib Al Hasan

Shakib Al Hasan is another god of cricket and, without a shred of doubt, the biggest player to emerge from Bangladesh. Starting out playing in villages near his hometown, Magyar, Shakib has become one of the most talented and leading cricket players.

Biography and Contribution

Shakib Al Hasan was born in 1987. Aside from being a cricket player, he was also a member of the Magura Parliament.

In 2007, he made his Test debut against India. Shakib is still the only cricketer to have topped the ICC all-rounder rankings simultaneously in all three formats.

Cricketing Career

Shakib Al Hasan scored his first ODI century in the 2007 World Cup, in the West Indies tri-series, against Canada. His consistent and solid performances helped him build a great reputation, and in 2008, playing against Pakistan, he scored a century.

In a 2008 Test against New Zealand, Shakib took 7/36, the best score achieved by a Bangladeshi bowler.

From 2011 to 2017, Shakib played for the Kolkata Knight Riders, contributing to their winning performances as an all-rounder.

In 2018, he was acquired by Sunrisers Hyderabad. Shakib scored 230 runs and 14 wickets here. Later, in the 2023 IPL auction, Kolkata Knight Riders bought him back to their team.

Recognition and Awards

While Shakib Al Hasan is quite controversial in Bangladesh and is often in the news headlines, he remains a major player for the Bangladesh cricket team. He was ranked as the 90th most famous athlete in the world in 2019. In 2009 and 2021, Shakib was named to the ICC Men’s Team Of the Year.

From July 2024, he has the record for the most wickets in T20 Internationals for men.

Contributions to the Evolution of Cricket

As we discussed, the term “Godfather of Cricket” goes beyond a simple title. It is reserved for individuals who have not only achieved greatness in their careers but have also encouraged countless others in the field. Whether it's Don Bradman's pioneering influence, MS Dhoni's revered status, or Al Hasan's transformative contributions, each of these legends has played a vital role in the game's growth and popularity.

Legacy and Lasting Impact

Over the years, numerous legendary players have profoundly influenced the game. This elite group of cricketers has built enduring legacies, becoming true icons whose impact stretches well beyond their on-field successes.

For example, Richards' legacy in cricket goes far beyond the awards he received. He is revered for his magnetic presence, flawless technique, and ability to dominate any bowling attack, especially against fast bowlers. The influence of Don Bradman on the game is universally recognized by fellow cricketers and experts, with many considering him the greatest batsman they have ever seen.

Shakib Al Hasan and Ms. Dhoni's legacies are still unfolding, and only time will tell if they will be remembered as the godfathers of a new era in cricket.

Criticisms and Controversies

The world of cricket and major cricketers is not left without criticism and controversies. These players are often caught in news headlines for various reasons. For example, there was a case with Dhoni for hurting the feelings of religious people and denigrating a Hindu God. The captaincy of Sir Vivian wasn't without controversy as well, as incidents like his aggressive appeals drew criticism.

FAQ

Who Is the Godfather of Cricket?

There are several key cricketers related to this title, including Ms Dhoni, Bradman, Al Hasan, and Viv Richards.

Who Is Always the King of Cricket?

Virat Kohli can be considered the forever King of Cricket.

Who Is the Father of Indian Cricket?

While there is no official or formal Father of Indian Cricket, many consider Mahajara Ranjit Sinjhi as the Father of Indian Cricket.

Is Rohit Sharma the God of Cricket?

Rohit Sharma is now considered the new god of T20 Cricket.