India’s $923 million in reserves is greater than the financial balance of the other 11 Test nations combined (~ $734 Million). India has been profitable in at least each of the last 10 years.
For financially strong boards like India and England, ICC distributions make up only around 10% of their total revenue. In contrast, boards such as Zimbabwe (~85%) and others like Afghanistan, Sri Lanka, and New Zealand (each around 48%) remain heavily reliant on ICC funding.
Some of the more surprising outcomes include Australia currently operating at a loss, and Bangladesh and Pakistan ranking unexpectedly high. On a positive note, South Africa, New Zealand, Sri Lanka, West Indies, and Zimbabwe have all recovered from COVID-era setbacks and now maintain at least some level of reserve capital.
How I Evaluated the Financial Health of Cricket Boards
To assess the financial strength of cricket boards, I reviewed the official financial statements of all 12 Full Member nations. Based on this analysis, each country is assigned a category reflecting its overall financial health.
🟢 Financially Strong: India, Bangladesh, England, Pakistan, South Africa, New Zealand, Sri Lanka
🟡 Stable: West Indies, Zimbabwe, Afghanistan
🔴 Financially Vulnerable: Australia, Ireland
The classification is based primarily on each board’s most recently reported reserves, but also considers long-term trends in profitability, revenue, expenditure, and annual surplus or deficit over the past 5-10 years, wherever data was available.
In a previous analysis, I estimated that hosting a Test match can cost between $350,000-$1.4 million. This benchmark, combined with each board’s current reserves and cash flow, helps assess whether they can sustainably host Test cricket. To host 5 home Tests per year as part of a 10-Test calendar, a cricket board would need at least $1.7 to $7 million in available cashflow and reserves.
BCCI earned a profit of 5,761.01 Crore INR from the IPL in 2023-24. contributing to 59.14% of their total revenue. The WPL resulted in a surplus of 377.50 Crore INR.
For the 2023 ODI World Cup, BCCI received Rs. 324.95 Crore INR, while the expenses were 276.15 Crore INR.
The 2023-24 ICC distribution was 1042.35 Crore INR ($115,496,100).
Financial Health: 🟢 Strong (on paper) 6-Year Financial Trend: Balance rose from $82M (2022) to $427M (2023), mostly via assets
COVID Recovery: ✅ Fully recovered.
Can They Afford to Host Tests? ✅ Yes, but long series may strain resources. They currently have $16.99 million in cash flow, which should be good enough for them to host 5 Test series in a season.
India Tour Dependency:Low. India toured Bangladesh in 2019/20, 2022/23 (+3 ODIs), and 2024/25 for 2 Test. There was not a meaningful enough changes in the finances in India tours.
ICC Income: $16 million (34.12% of annual revenue)
Bottom Line: Growth is real, but heavily skewed by asset gains. Still reliant on consistent tours and ICC support.
*Note: BCB had 2017-20 annual report and 2022-23 but not one for 2020-21 period.
Additional Notes:
The gain of assets took BCB’s balance from 10,654,580,032 BDT ($87 Million) to 46,205,040,900 BDT ($377.31 Million).
Quote from Annual Report
“The BCB finances have been boosted by proactive steps taken by the Board since 2017. This is evident in the figures. In the six years between 2011 and 2016 the Board had earned US $33.32 million in media, team sponsor and other rights while in just three years from 2017 to 2020, the BCB’s earnings stood at approximately US $29 million from the same sources.
Financial Health: 🟢 Exceptionally Strong 10-Year Financial Trend: Reserves grew from a low of $2.2 million (2021) to $69.29 million (2025), but incurred a small operating loss for the 2024-25 financial year.
COVID Recovery: ✅ Fully recovered. Suffered a loss of £14.875 million in 2020. They then had three consecutive years of profits between 2022-2024.
Can They Afford to Host Tests? ✅ Enough reserves and cash flow to host marquee Test series.
India Tour Dependency:Moderate. Can survive without India and Ashes for a couple of seasons, but because of their high administrative expenses, they need these tours often. 2019 (Ashes + WC), 2023 (Ashes), and 2022 (India tour) all resulted in profits.
ICC Income: $41.33 Million (10.35% of annual revenue)
Bottom Line: Large revenues but also large administrative expenses. Ashes and India tours drive profitability.
ECB Reserves (2015-2025)
2015: +£ 70,039,000($111.17 Million) – @ £0.63 per USD
2016: +£ 73,106,000($104.44 Million) – @ £0.70 per USD
2017: +£ 35,747,000($44.68 Million) – @ £0.80 per USD
2018: +£ 8,580,000($12.08 Million) – @ £0.71 per USD
2019: +£ 11,248,000($14.80 Million) – @ £0.76 per USD
2020: +£ 17,097,000($22.20 Million) – @ £0.77 per USD
2021: +£ 2,222,000($3.04 Million) – @ £0.73 per USD
2022: +£ 22,973,000($30.63 Million) – @ £0.75 per USD
2023: +£ 35,392,000($43.69 Million) – @ £0.81 per USD
2024: +£ 58,246,000($73.73 Million) – @ £0.79 per USD
2025: +£ 55,431,000 ($69.29 Million) – @ £0.80 per USD
2025 Cash Flow: £263,343,000 ($329.18 Million)
*Even though there is a great deal of cash at hand, the amounts falling due within one year to creditors is £258,225,000.
ECB Turnover and Expenses
*Year Ended 31 January, 2025
Year
Turnover
Administrative Expenses
Other Gains/Charges*
Total Comprehensive Income
2016
+£133,967,000
–£114,186,000
–£16,714,000
+£3,067,000
2017
+£118,886,000
–£137,166,000
–£19,079,000
-£37,359,000
2018
+£125,465,000
–£137,761,000
–£14,871,000
–£27,167,000
2019
+£172,319,000
–£142,376,000
–£27,275,000
+£2,668,000
2020
+£227,993,000
-£164,182,000
–£57,962,000
+£5,849,000
2021
+£207,112,000
-£191,097,000
–£30,890,000
–£14,875,000
2022
+£302,504,000
–£226,171,000
–£55,582,000
+£20,751,000
2023
+£334,019,000
–£248,676,000
–£72,924,000
+£12,419,000
2024
+£336,066,000
–£248,540,000
–£64,672,000
+£22,854,000
2025
+£319,558,000 (+$399,447,500)
–£259,305,000 (-$324,131,250)
–£63,068,000 (-$78,835,000)
–£2,815,000 (-$3,518,750)
*Other gains and charges include Cost of Sales, other operating income, tax on profit, and effective portion of changes in fair value of cash flow hedges.
Quote from Annual Reports
“In 2017, ECB continued with high levels of contributions to our cricket network and stakeholders. A special fee distribution of +£1.3m was paid to each First Class County in each 2016 or 2017, relating to the 2018 home India series broadcast revenue. A further special distribution of +£1m is scheduled to be paid to each First Class County in either 2018 or 2019, relating to Cricket World Cup 2019 revenue. These previously unprecedented contributions, coupled with continued significant investment in strategic Participation and Growth initiatives, including the expansion of our first nationwide entry-level programme, resulted in a loss for the financial year of – £ 30.2 m (2016: – £ 37.3m).”
“Cricket was always going to face a difficult challenge to compete for engagement in 2024. While England Men hosted West Indies and Sri Lanka in a non-Ashes year, a blockbuster sporting summer saw both the Paris Olympics and the men’s football Euros taking place in the same time zone. This was not helped further by poor weather, particularly in the first half of the summer. Despite this, attendance of 2.84m represented our best ever attendance for a non-Ashes or India year. The recreational game saw record highs in terms of participation, driven by an increase of around 10 per cent in women’s and girls’ sections and teams.
Financial Health: 🟢 Stable 10-Year Financial Trend: Surplus increased from $65 million (2015) to $71.83M (2023).
COVID Recovery: ✅ Fully recovered. Had a slight loss in 2021 ($2.9 million loss), but have been above water year after year otherwise.
Can They Afford to Host Tests? ✅ Yes. $62 million of cash in hand, annual profit of $10.9 million last year. Can definitely host a few 3 to 4-match Test series
India Tour Dependency:None. PCB are surviving even without India tours (Indirectly though, the ICC pool grows due to India-Pakistan ICC matches, which increases the amount that ICC pays each board).
ICC Income: $16 million (27.93% of annual revenue)
Bottom Line: Financially solid with recent home series in Pakistan. However, despite nominal growth in reserves, the sharp devaluation of the Pakistan Rupee from 104 PKR per USD in 2017 to 286 in 2023 has significantly eroded the real value of those gains.
PCB Reserves
2015: + 6,694,788,996 PKR ($65,748,316)– @ 101.8 PKR per USD
2016: + 8,283,173,629 PKR ($79,058,370)– @ 104.77 PKR per USD
2017: + 8,434,024,058 PKR ($80,447,198) – @ 104.83 PKR per USD
2018: + 8,283,173,629 PKR ($68,040,457)– @ 121.73 PKR per USD
2019: + 13,263,657,218 PKR ($84,237,003)– @ 157.47 PKR per USD
2020: + 17,099,164,322 PKR ($102,077,260)– @ 167.50 PKR per USD
2021: + 16,262,237,513 PKR ($103,189,088) – @ 157.61 PKR per USD
2022: + 17,304,552,163 PKR ($83,804,720) – @ 206.50 PKR per USD
2023: + 20,393,054,686 PKR ($71,829,749) – @ 286.62 PKR per USD
2023 Cash Flow: PKR 17,978,488,170 ($62,696,229)
PCB Revenues and Expenses
*Year ended June 30, 2023
Year
Revenues (in PKR)
Operating Cost (in PKR)
Other Gains/Charges* (in PKR)
Total Comprehensive Income (in PKR)
2016
+4,143,841,297
–3,299,320,243
+691,161,695
+1,535,682,749
2017
+4,373,244,912
–4,034,088,153
–135,604,446
+203,552,313
2018
+5,131,003,966
-5,136,332,519
-145,521,876
–150,850,429
2019
+11,248,251,959
–5,907,837,843
–359,930,527
+4,980,483,589
2020
+9,334,821,085
–5,030,821,564
–468,492,417
+3,835,507,104
2021
+6,330,842,117
-7,086,927,287
–1,258,277,393
–835,926,809
2022
+9,033,872,425
-7,599,150,590
–393,407,185
+1,041,314,650
2023
+16,424,122,531 (+$57,293,595)
-12,450,222,610 (-$43,446,377)
–885,478,598 (-3,089,210)
+3,088,502,523 (+$10,934,428)
“During this period, PCB hosted England twice after 17 years for two memorable series. Similarly, New Zealand also toured Pakistan twice for the red and white-ball series, and our teams toured Sri Lanka, the Netherland, Sharjah and participated in ICC Men’s T20 World Cup in Australia….In conclusion, PCB’s financial health continues to strengthen with cash reserves reaching its highest level ever.“
Financial Health: 🟢 Recovering 10-Year Financial Trend: Pre-Covid, CSA’s reserve went as high as $85.68 million, but 5 loss-making years between 2017-23 dropped their reserves to $20.02 million. A strong 2024 saw them bounce back to $63.83 million.
COVID Recovery: ✅ Fully recovered.
Can They Afford to Host Tests? ✅ Yes, +$50.97 million cash flow at the end of 2024 financial year.
India Tour Dependency:Very High. India’s 2023/24 tour (2 Tests, 3 ODIs, 3 T20Is) was a massive boost to CSA’s revenues.
ICC Income: R567 million – $30.58 million (37.88%)
Bottom Line: CSA now has both the surplus and cash flow to support Test cricket.
Why are the World Test Champions not hosting Tests in 2025?
South Africa will be going through stadium upgrades as they prepare to host the 2027 ODI Cricket World Cup. Hence, they will not be hosting a home Test, especially the esteemed Boxing Day Test.
In 2026-27, home Tests will be back for South Africa: 3 Tests vs Australia and England and 2 Tests vs Bangladesh. Women Tests vs Australia and India.
In the last 10 years, the Rand has gone from $1 USD = R. 9.65 to $1 USD ~ 18 R.
2013:+R400,011,000 (+$37.96 Million) – @ R10.54 per USD
2014:+R599,421,000 (+$53.95 Million) – @ R11.11 per USD
2015:+R707,095,000 (+$57.72 Million) – @ R12.25 per USD
2016:+R814,254,000 (+$57.07 Million) – @ R14.27 per USD
2017:+R655,444,000 (+$49.07 Million) – @ R13.35 per USD
2018: +R1,056,445,000 (+$85.68 Million) – @ R12.33 per USD
2019: +R856,430,000 (+$59.26 Million) – @ R14.45 per USD
2020: +R906,692,000 (+$48.33 Million) – @ R18.76 per USD
2021: +R685,669,000 (+$47.72 Million) – @ R14.37 per USD
2022: +R487,795,000 (+$30.87 Million) – @ R15.80 per USD
2023: +R368,406,000 (+$20.02 Million) – @ R18.40 per USD
2024: +R1,183,262,000 (+$63.83 Million) – @ R18.54 per USD
2024 Cash Flow: R 945,008,000 ($50.97 Million)
CSA Revenues and Expenses
*Year ending April 30, 2024
Year
Revenues
Operating Cost
Other Gains/Charges*
Total Comprehensive Income
2015
+R765,600,000
-R695,476,000
+R37,550,000
+R 107,674,000
2016
+R822,926,000
-R777,047,000
+R61,280,000
+R 107,159,000
2017
+R674,935,000
-R910,392,000
+R76,647,000
-R 158,810,000
2018
+R1,526,393,000
-R1,219,049,000
+R42,655,000
+R 349,999,000
2019
+R929,492,000
-R1,215,801,000
+R86,294,000
-R 200,015,000
2020
+R1,074,063,000
-R1,193,672,000
+R169,871,000
+R50,262,000
2021
+R512,438,000
-R732,362,000
-R1,099,000
-R 221,023,000
2022
+R778,353,000
-R996,624,000
+R19,397,000
-R 197,874,000
2023
+R700,240,000
-R904,441,000
+R84,812,000
-R 119,389,000
2024
+R1,888,455,000 (+$101,860,909)
-R1,158,812,000 (-$62,480,037)
-R85,213,000 (-$4,596,438)
+R 814,856,000 (+$43,943,740)
Other gains/charges includes investment income, net foreign exchange gains, fair value adjustments, share of loss from associate, share of profit from joint venture, and impairment of investment in associate
Quotes from Annual Reports
“We realised a 170% increase in revenue, reaching R1.89 billion. This increase was anchored by the inbound tour by India, and supported by several initiatives, including the successful hosting of the ICC U19 World Cup 2024.”
“Our financial stability has been reinforced with a net cash inflow of R810 million from operating activities and other strategic investments, including in African Cricket Development, the company behind the SA20 product. …The outcome was a profit before tax of R815 million, reversing the previous year’s loss.”
“I am pleased to present a strong financial performance for the year ending 30 April 2024. The results reflect revenue of R1.89 billion and net profit of R815 million, exceeding expectations and putting CSA in a healthy financial position for the balance of our four-year financial cycle and beyond.”
“Sri Lanka Cricket has stepped into 2024 with financial flexibility, a healthy balance sheet and bottom line, while having remained steadfast in our commitment to the development of the sport locally and in the international arena. In 2023, SLC has committed operational expenditure of 4.3 billion rupees towards international cricket and 2.8 billion rupees towards domestic cricket, providing vital funding to ensure that both structures have the best opportunities to achieve success.”
“The financial results in 2023 yet again demonstrates Sri Lanka Cricket’s prudent management of finances, as we made a revenue of 1,959 million (includes Participation Fee Income-Inbound from ACC, Participation Fee Income-Outbound from ACC, Sponsorships, Ground Hiring Income from Pakistan Cricket Board, Development Grant from ACC), positioning us strongly to invest in cricket and ensure its future growth.”
Financial Health: 🟨 Modest 10-Year Financial Trend: Reserves balanced between $10-20 million since 2016, with minor dip in 2022.
COVID Recovery: ✅ Recovered. 4 out of 5 years in the green from 2020-24.
Can They Afford to Host Tests? ✅ Yes, but usually break-even or slight loss.
India Tour Dependency:Very high. India toured NZ in 2019/20 and 2022/23 (England also visited), both high profit years for NZC. Australia visited in 2024, which was also a profitable year.
ICC Income: 28.38 Million (48.45% of 2024 revenue)
Bottom Line: Well-run but tight margins. Financial health depends on India or ICC deals.
NZC Reserves (2016-2024)
2013:+ $ 7,077,531 NZD ($5.44 Million USD) @ $1.30 NZD per USD
2016:+ $32,628,000 NZD ($23.47 Million USD) @ $1.39 NZD per USD
2017:+ $26,043,000 NZD (19.29 Million USD) @ $1.35 NZD per USD
2018: + $17,879,000 NZD ($12.16 Million USD) @ $1.47 NZD per USD
2019: + $15,149,000 NZD ($10.10 Million USD) @ $1.50 NZD per USD
2020: + $19,829,000 NZD ($13.13 Million USD) @ $1.51 NZD per USD
2021: + $20,384,000 NZD ($14.26 Million USD) @ $1.43 NZD per USD
2022: + $13,653,000 NZD ($8.59 Million USD) @ $1.59 NZD per USD
2023: + $29,205,000 NZD ($18.03 Million USD) @ $1.62 NZD per USD
2024 Cash Flow: $33,881,000 NZD ($20.17 Million USD)
NZC Revenue and Expense
Balance as of 31 July, 2024
Year
Revenue (in $ NZD)
Operating Cost (in NZD)
Other Gains/Charges* (in NZD)
Total Comprehensive Income (in NZD)
2017
+$48,709,000
–$41,757,000
-$13,537,000
–$6,585,000
2018
+$55,442,000
–$42,231,000
-$21,375,000
–$8,164,000
2019*
+$59,400,000
-$60,700,000
+$0
–$1,300,000
2020
+$60,610,000
–$40,734,000
-$15,196,000
+$4,680,000
2021
+$62,518,000
–$43,509,000
–$18,454,000
+$555,000
2022
+$66,401,000
-$46,496,000
-$26,636,000
-$6,731,000
2023
+$97,064,000
-$63,067,000
-$18,445,000
+$15,552,000
2024
+$98,402,000 (+$58,572,619 USD)
-$64,136,000 (-$38,176,190 USD)
-$28,654,000 (-$17,055,952 USD)
$5,612,000 (+$3,340,476 USD)
*2019 Annual Report was not available, so the estimate is based on the 2017-18 and the 2020-21 reports (The -$60,700,000 includes both operating cost/other charges).
Quotes from Annual Report
“As our positive 2023-24 fiscal result shows, NZC is in a sound financial position, something of major importance to our Major Associations given our top-down funding model. Our long-term forecast warns of some head winds, and we have taken steps to ensure we will be best placed to navigate what is currently a volatile global cricket environment.”
“This is a plan that strives to safeguard the financial and commercial sustainability of NZC for the benefit of all, placing high amongst its priorities the need to invest and grow our commercial foothold in South Asia, to operate in an environmentally sustainable fashion, and to build strong partnerships with our broadcast partners at home and in India. The bottom line is that we all depend on each other to survive and flourish.”
“Revenue from broadcast, sponsorships, and ticketing all delivered year-on-year growth as new partnerships were formed, both domestically and offshore, including the marquee and offshore, including the marquee deal reached with Sony as our broadcast partner in the India sub-continent from 2024-2031.”
Financial Health: 🟨 Rebounding 6-Year Financial Trend: Recovered from –$18.9M (2017) to +$10.8M (2022)
COVID Recovery: ✅ Recovered.
Can They Afford to Host Tests? ✅ Yes. They are hosting 8 Tests this year, but need to be cautious. They have plenty in reserves, but cash flow tends to be low.
India Tour Dependency:Very high. India visited Zimbabwe for 3 ODIs in 2022, which corresponds to the largest revenue they had in the six-year period. Hosting ICC Qualifiers also gives them a boost.
ICC Income: $13.5 Million (85.29% of 2022 Revenue)
Bottom Line: Quiet financial rebuild. Still ICC-reliant, but out of crisis.
Financial Health: 🟨 Fragile 10-Year Financial Trend: Flat but steady. Modes surplus maintained since 2020.
COVID Recovery: ✅ Recovered, but hindered by sanctions.
Can They Afford to Host Tests? ❌ Not realistically, neutral venues inflate costs
India Tour Dependency:Moderate. While India doesn’t play Afghanistan often, it has played an indirect role in Afghanistan’s development with IPL contracts and home stadiums in Dehradun and Lucknow.
ICC Income: $4.75 Million (48% of revenue). This will rise to about $16.82 million in the 2024-27 cycle.
ACB Reserves (2017-2022)
Bottom Line: Surviving via ICC support. Lack of a home base continues to hurt.
2017:+1,902,994
2018: +$538,841
2019: +$1,550,462
2020: +$1,940,462
2021: +$2,180,462
2022: +$5,250,462
ACB Revenues and Expenses
Year
Revenues
Operating Cost
Total Comprehensive Income
2018
+$10,849,111
–$12,213,264
– $1,364,153
2019
+$13,121,708
–$12,110,087
+$1,011,621
2020
+$7,150,000
–$6,760,000
+$390,000
2021
+$6,170,000
–$6,410,000
+$240,000
2022
+$9,920,000
-$6,850,000
+$3,070,000
Additional Notes
ACB is investing heavily in developing domestic cricket stadiums, namely (1) Kabul International Cricket Stadium, (2) Logar Cricket Ground, (3) Najibullah Tarakai International Cricket Ground, (4) Paktika Cricket Ground, (5) Wardak Cricket Ground, and (6) Balk Cricket Ground. Budget for each ground ranges from $1-5 million.
Quotes from Annual Reports
“Hosting bilateral series and other tournaments is a significant challenge for Afghanistan…has had to host all of its ‘home’ games in neutral countries such as the United Arab Emirates, India, or Qatar. This has resulted in increased expenses for the ACB, as it has to host both the Afghanistan team and the visiting team at the same time, which incurred higher costs for logistical arrangements and accommodation of both teams.”
“The recent political changes in the country have made it more challenging to transfer money into Afghanistan due to imposed international sanctions. This has caused difficulties for the Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB) as most of its income comes from ICC distributions, the payments made twice a year. However, the ACB’s leadership and finance team have been working closely with the ICC to find alternative ways to transfer funds into the country to support the organization overcome this issue in the long term.”
“During 2018, ACB hosted Zimbabwe and Bangladesh in February and June, respectively. The forecasted revenue for each series was forecasted at USD 400k.”
Financial Health: 🔴 Negative Reserves, but Expected to Rebound 10-Year Financial Trend: Cricket Australia slipped from $111.03 Million USD reserves in 2016 to a $234K deficit in 2024. Six of the last 10 years have resulted in losses. Massive profits from the 2015 World Cup year has been keeping them afloat.
COVID Recovery: ❌ Still incomplete.
Can They Afford to Host Tests? ✅ Yes, but high operating costs make financial planning critical.
India Tour Dependency:High. CA posted profits in 2019 and 2021 with record revenue numbers.
ICC Income: $37.53 Million (13.86% of 2024 annual revenue)
Bottom Line: CA currently has negative reserves, but cash on hand ($25.7 M AUD), access to $50 M in secured funding. The recently concluded BGT and upcoming Ashes in 2025-26 will put them in a position to bounce back over the next two years.
CA Reserves (2013-2024)
2013: +$8,147,220 AUD ($7.47 Million USD) – @ $1.09 AUD per USD
2014: +$26,676,000 AUD ($25.17 Million USD) – @ $1.06 AUD per USD
2015: +$114,168,000 AUD ($88.52 Million USD) – @ $1.29 AUD per USD
2016: +$149,895,000 AUD ($111.03 Million USD) – @ $1.35 AUD per USD
2017: +$98,600,000 AUD ($75.27 Million USD) – @ $1.31 AUD per USD
2018: +$87,841,000 AUD ($65.07 Million USD) – @ $1.35 AUD per USD
2019: +$97,743,000 AUD ($65.07 Million USD) – @ $1.43 AUD per USD
2020: +$54,588,000 AUD ($37.39 Million USD) – @ $1.46 AUD per USD
2021: +$59,450,000 AUD ($45.05 Million USD) – @ $1.32 AUD per USD
2022: +$48,795,000 AUD ($33.18 Million USD) – @ $1.47 AUD per USD
2023: +$31,901,000 AUD ($21.27 Million USD) – @ $1.50 AUD per USD
2024 Cash Flow: $25,621,000 AUD ($17.09 Million USD)
Cricket Australia might have low reserves, but their total assets total $96,589,000 AUD ($64.39 Million USD)
CA Revenues and Expenses
*Year ending 30 June, 2024
Year
Revenues(in AUD)
Operating Cost(in AUD)
Other Gains/Charges* (in AUD)
Total Comprehensive Income (in AUD)
2014
+$295,897,820
-$193,784,041
-$82,585,431
+$18,528,348
2015
+$380,875,000
-$227,259,000
-$66,124,000
+$87,492,000
2016
+$339,787,000
-$223,826,000
-$80,234,000
+$35,727,000
2017
+$313,005,000
-$251,582,000
-$112,718,000
–$51,295,000
2018*
+$399,265,000
–$272,077,000
-$137,947,000
–$10,759,000
2019
+$485,901,000
-$340,201,000
-$135,798,000
+$9,902,000
2020*
+$390,098,000
–$305,474,000
-$127,779,000
–$43,155,000
2021
+$405,350,000
-$302,350,000
–$98,138,000
+$4,862,000
2022
+$391,004,000
-283,439,000
-$118,220,000
–$10,655,000
2023
+$426,643,000
-$324,192,000
-$119,345,000
-$16,894,000
2024
+$406,245,000 (+$270,830,000 USD)
-$318,036,000 (-$212,024,000 USD)
-$120,473,000 (-$80,315,000 USD)
–$32,264,000 (-$21,509,000)
*’Member Funding’ and ‘Strategic Funding’ contribute to the other gains
Additional Notes:
Player salaries alone cost $121.4M AUD in 2024, underlining the board’s heavy expenditure base.
CA’s share of the 2015 World Cup host profit added $51M AUD to its earnings that year.
Quotes from Annual Reports
“The net result of operations for the year ended 30 June 2017, after distributions to State Associations of $112,242,699 (2016:$106,259,550) was a net loss of $50,802,002 (2016: surplus $9,701,628). The reduction in net result for the year ended 30 June 2017 was in line with Management and budgetary expectations and the Long Range Plan (LRP) four year planning cycle projections.”
“As we know, CA is currently at a low-point in its four-year cycle. Despite this, the first year of the new player agreement has resulted in a 7% uplift in player payments, and the extension of funding agreements with members included a 3.5% uplift this year. The net deficit for the current year, after funding to members, is $31.9M, a further $14.7M down to the previous year. Considering the content-driven $18.2M year-on-year revenue decrease, this result was anticipated and highlights the emphasis on managing costs and driving revenue through business transformation initiatives. CA depleted its reserves through the impacts of COVID, which in aggregate cost around $100m. Despite this, CA has cash and deposits of $25.7m, with a further $50m in funding available though a secured banking facility and is forecast to rebuild reserves through upcoming seasons hosting India and England.
Financial Health: 🔴 At-risk 7-Year Financial Trend: After modest reserves between 2019-2021, Cricket Ireland’s financial reserves have fallen to $3.15 million deficit in 2023. That year marked a critical transition point, with signs of stability ahead.
COVID Recovery: ❌ Not yet complete.
Can They Afford to Host Tests? ❌ Not currently. Their cash in hand has dropped from €1,336,4995 to €434,185 between 2022 and 2023. Hosting even a single Test would leave virtually no liquidity.
India Tour Dependency:High. Indias’s T20I visits (2 each in 2018 & 2022 and 3 T20Is in 2023) lead to noticeable revenue spikes, but also increased costs. Even an England tour could ease the pressure.
ICC Income: $4.75 Million in 2023 (40.36% of annual revenue). Under the 2024-27 ICC distribution model, Ireland is projected to earn $18.04 million offering a welcome financial cushion.
Bottom Line: Ireland remains heavily dependent on ICC funding, and current financial fragility limits its ability to invest ambitiously in the short term.
Cricket Ireland Reserves (2018-2023)
2017: +€216,817 (+199,472) – @ € 0.92 per USD
2018: +€13,470 (+$11,710.2) – @ € 0.87 per USD
2019: +€3,673 ($3,306) – @ € 0.90 per USD
2020: +€1,541,035 (+$1,263,648) – @ € 0.82 per USD
2021: +€310,166 (+$272,946) – @ € 0.88 per USD
2022: +€133,982 (+$125,943) – @ € 0.94 per USD
2023: -€3,464,422 (-$3,152,624) – @ € 0.91 per USD
2023 Cash In Bank and in Hand:€ 434,185
Cricket Ireland Revenues and Expenses
The financial end for Cricket Ireland year is 31 December.
Year
Income
Expenses
Total Retained Earnings
2018
+€9,708,177
– €9,911524
-€203,347
2019
+€10,624,514
–€10,634,311
-€9,797
2020
+€7,934,398
–€6,397,036
+€1,537,362
2021
+€9,739,048
–€10,969,917
-€1,230,869
2022
+€13,103,793
–€13,279,977
-€176,184
2023
+€10,211,129 (+$11,769,397)
-€13,809,533 (-$15,916,935)
-€3,598,404 (-$4,147,538)
*expenses include both direct and administrative expense and Income includes both ‘income’ and ‘other operating income.’
Quotes from Annual Report
“2023 was a challenging, but ultimately successful year – both on- and off-the-field…Covid was still a real and present threat when this Strategic Plan was developed and the uncertainty of the time saw an ambitious but measured document…However, as we enter a new phase in our development as a cricket nation, we will see an uplift in our ICC distribution over the period, and anticipate our allocation to be approximately US$70M, albeit weighted to the backend where around 40% of these funds will be paid in 2027….2023 will be a year to remember for many – and it will hopefully be seen in time as a seminal year for Irish cricket.”
I can understand why South Africa, Sri Lanka, and New Zealand did not host many Tests in recent years.
COVID-19 losses, funding issues, and player availability made things complicated. But now? These boards have rebuilt their reserves. ICC distributions are growing, and India tours bring massive broadcast revenue.
Countries like Ireland and Afghanistan still cannot afford to host a single Test. Australia, despite paying its players among the highest salaries in the game, hasn’t turned a profit in years. India sits at the economic center of world cricket, and it is doing its part.
The money now exists for countries outside the Big 3. The onus is now on every board to give Test cricket the calendar space it deserves.
****
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Dear Temba, thank you. For bearing the burden of pain, expectations, and voices that never believed in you. For carrying the weight of a nation as its leader. For your Player of the Series performance in Sri Lanka and for becoming this team’s most consistent batter over the last two years.
You stood tall in the Final. You hobbled on one leg and carried generations on your back with an unforgettable 147-run stand with Markram.
You didn’t just survive. You answered the critics. And most importantly, the call of a nation desperate for a moment like this.
Dear Kagiso, thank you. For walking through fire—the off-field controversies, the noise, and the no balls—to deliver one of the finest bowling displays in South African history. For the many five-fers across the two-year cycle, the brilliance in Bangladesh, and the records you shattered along the way.
But at Lord’s, you climbed higher. In those four days, you touched greatness.
Dear Aiden, thank you. For the innings of a lifetime against the fiercest of attacks in Starc, Hazlewood, Cummins, and Lyon. You held your nerve and found your flow.
After the disappointment of the T20 World Cup, you came back stronger. From the innings against Pakistan to the balcony at Lord’s, you never looked back.
And yes, thank you for those beautifully exquisite cover drives. And for the golden arm off-spin, always delivering when its least expected. As Temba said, you got character, mate. And that is what matters.
Dear Lungi, thank you. For proving you could bowl the long, decisive spells. You changed the game with grit and rhythm when it mattered the most.
Dear Marco, thank you. For that catch. For the spells. For becoming the all-rounder that South Africa can rely on. And for the Player of the Series performance against Pakistan that helped carry this team to the Final.
Dear Keshav, thank you. For being the senior pro that the team could look up to. The heartbeat of the team. Your constant contributions in Bangladesh and Sri lanka, and that magnificent performance against the West Indies were vital in bringing South Africa to the Final.
And those tears of joy and relief after the win? Those moments are etched in our memories forever.
Dear Kyle, thank you. For that century in Bangladesh and the 105 in Sri Lanka. And most of all, for hitting the winning runs. That image will never be forgotten.
Dear David, thank you. For choosing the road less traveled by and going to that New Zealand tour while others played in the SA20. For scoring that gutsy 110. And what a performance in the final, rescuing South Africa in the first innings and staying till the very end in the second.
Dear Tristan, thank you. For taking clutch catches in the final and for providing sparks of brilliance throughout the campaign with knocks of 122, 106, 68*, 30* that lit up the campaign. The future is bright, and it’s all yours.
Dear Ryan, thank you. For that 259 against Pakistan in a must-win game. The innings that kept the dream alive and pushed South Africa one step closer to glory.
Dear Wiaan, thank you. For doing the tough jobs with a smile. An all-round showing against the West Indies, a century at #7 in Bangladesh, and a crucial knock at #3 in the Final that kept South Africa in the game.
Dear Dean, thank you. For opening this World Test Championship cycle with a magnificent 185. For setting the tone. You may have retired, but your imprint in this triumph remains.
Dear Tony, Senuran, Dane, Corbin—thank you. Tony’s 177, Muthuswamy’s 4-fer vs Bangladesh, Dane’s 5-fers vs Sri Lanka and Pakistan, and Corbin’s 4-fer & 81* vs Pakistan all played a role. Every contribution mattered. The bench is strong, and South Africa’s future in Test cricket is bright.
And Dear Coach Conrad Shukri and the Support Staff, thank you. For backing this group. You helped nurture an environment from which champions could emerge.
So once again, I say, Thank you Temba. Thank you Kagiso. Thank you Aiden. Thank you Conrad. And to Ryan, Wiaan, Tristan, David, Kyle, Marco, Keshav, Lungi, Tony, Corbin, Dane, and Senuran, Dean, Nandre, Gerald, and anyone I am forgetting, thank you.
I may not be South African, but through Hashim Amla’s elegance, Faf du Plessis’ blockathons, AB de Villiers’ magic, and Dale Steyn’s action I spent hours trying to imitate, I fell in love with South African cricket.
More often than not, I found myself cheering for them. Every story felt personal. Every match felt like it was mine. And when the 2015 semi-final ended in a heartbreak, it left scars, even for a neutral fan.
That’s why this win means more. This team didn’t just lift a trophy, they healed something. And if it healed something in me, I can only imagine what it meant to those who lived this journey for a lifetime.
I may not grasp every nuance of South African society or the full weight of what this means in a broader context. But I understand what it means to love a team through pain and to finally see them rise.
“This is for every cricketer that played a part in the beautiful cricketing history of the Rainbow nation. And for every Protea fan who stood by their team through the highs and lows.
This is for you. And this is for me.
What an absolute moment for world cricket.
This is for Graeme Smith. This is for Shaun Pollock. This is for Graeme Pollock. This is for Lance Klusener. This is for Dale Steyn. This is for Shabnim Ismail. This is for Allan Donald. This is for AB de Villiers. This is for Laura Wolvaardt. This is for Hashim Amla. This…
— Broken Cricket Dreams Cricket Blog (@cricket_broken) June 14, 2025
South Africa’s Dream, Realized by Bavuma and the Class of 2025
Persistence pays.
Through the heartbreaks and doubts, this team did not give up. Did not deviate from the end goal.
Thank you, Temba. Thank you, South Africa.
For the belief. For the fight. For the quiet grace with which you carried the weight of history. From a fan who watched with admiration, I will not forget what the Class of 2025 gave us.
****
I’ll leave you with the best content from Temba Bavuma’s WTC win. Thank you for reading.
If you are interested in South African cricket, you may enjoy:
Legacy or Livelihood: Dilemma Facing Modern Cricketers
Nicholas Pooran and Heinrich Klaasen made their choices.
They were not dropped. They simply walked away.
Why? Because they received better offers.
Pooran stepped away from international cricket at 29. Klaasen followed at 33. The one that started the trend: Quinton de Kock left Tests at 29 and all internationals by 31.
International cricket once offered pride, purpose, and legacy. But today, that is no longer enough. One IPL deal can outpay a decade of national contracts. T20 leagues offer flexibility, certainty, and family time. International cricket? Long tours, lower pay, and a scheduling mess.
Nicholas Pooran could earn $3.09-$4.03 million across 9 franchise leagues and play around 91 matches in a year (more if team qualifies for playoffs/finals).
In contrast, a West Indies central contract and international match fees would only add about $130,000-$180,000.
Had they signed central contracts, Klaasen and Pooran would have earned just 5-16% and 3-6% respectively of their total income from international cricket.
By comparison, top players from the wealthier big 3 boards earn significantly more from internationals:
Joe Root: 83.43% of $1.63 million, Mitchell Starc: 32-38% of ~$2.3 million, and Virat Kohli: 32% of $3.9 million
*Note: We will only look at national contracts, match fees, and franchise league income (not sponsorship or miscellaneous income).
How Much Does Nicholas Pooran Earn from Franchise Leagues?
Cricket West Indies (CW) is actually in its strongest financial position in years. As detailed in our financial deep dive, CWI turned a $21 million deficit into a $46 million surplus.
For the first time in a decade, they can afford to host 3-match Test series, upgrade infrastructure, and explore player retention strategies.
And yet, it was not enough to keep their biggest star.
Nicholas Pooran does not play Tests and has not featured in an ODI since 2023 (arguably is his strongest format). And with West Indies failing to qualify for the 2023 ODI World Cup and the 2025 Champions Trophy, his international workload had vanished.
If Pooran had signed a central contract, he would have earned just 3.35-6.61% from international cricket. Here is how the numbers stack up:
Central Contract: $100,000-$150,000 (If he had signed the national contract)
Match Fees: $31,200 (he played 18 T20Is in the last 12 months)
IPL Salary: $2.1 million
IPL Match Fees: $126,000
Other Franchise League Salary: $783,000-$1,807,000
If he continued playing international cricket, he would likely need to drop two franchise leagues, costing him $200,000-$400,000 in total earnings. That would bring his total down to $2.74 million-$3.91 million.
Percent of Annual Income from Central Contract:3.35-6.61%
Nicholas Pooran’s Salary Breakdown (Franchise Only)
Pooran will most likely earn the most sought after prices in each of the franchise leagues. We have provided an estimate of each of his leagues (based on averages and maximum cap the league has).
Earning about $3.09-$4.03 Million from 91 matches means he earns about $33,000-$43,000 per T20 league game. That’s more than most people’s annual household income.
Even we round up that T20I match fees to $2000, one T20I game only earns Pooran about 6% of what one franchise T20 game can earn him.
No Tests, no ODIs, 6% of T20 income, what motivation does Pooran have to sign the national contract?
Pooran League by League Salary Estimates
Salary
Number of Matches
IPL
$2.1 Million
IPL (Match Fees)
$126,000
14
BBL
$196,000-$275,000
10
ILT20
$150,000-$272,000
10
SA T20
$110,000-$250,000
10
Hundred
$103,000-$270,000
8
MLC
$92,000-$200,000
7
PSL
$66,000-$300,000
10
CPL
$46,000-$160,000
10
BPL
$20,000-$80,000
12
Total
$3.09-$4.03 Million
91
91 days in franchise cricket does not sound like much, but this does not include training, travel, and jet lag. 91 match days means he will rarely have time between leagues.
Notes:
Nicholas Pooran was a wildcard pick in 2024 SA T20, where the minimum price is 175,000 ZAR ($9890), but this salary is outside the salary cap.
The ILT20 is going to cut its salary cap by 20% in the upcoming season and go to an auction model. The maximum price earlier for ILT20 was $340,000. Reducing it by 20%, we get our estimate of $272,000. In addition, wildcard signings for this season can go up to $250,000
We show maximum estimates from franchises, but Pooran will most likely not play all leagues. For example, with the PSL clashing with the IPL now, he will most likely give up the $66,000-$300,000 income or only pay a couple of games and receive a pro-rated amount.
Central Contract: $68,000-$363,000 (If he had signed the national contract)
Match Fees: $145,000-$221,000
IPL Salary: $2.74 million
IPL Match Fees: $126,000
Active Franchise League Salary: $435,823-$463,518 (MLC, SA20, The Hundred)
Percent of Annual Income from Central Contract: 5.44-16.62%
The Big 3 vs the Rest: Exactly How Much More Money are India, England, and Australia Paying?
Pooran and Klaasen are top tier players for their teams. How does their income compare with the top tier players of the Big 3?
We look at Joe Root (England), Virat Kohli (India), and Mitchell Starc (Australia) since they are most likely receiving their country’s highest contracts.
Joe Root Salary ($1,629,520)
Central Contract: ~£800,000 ($1,079,520)
Match Fees: £207,500 ($280,000)
£162,500 (Tests), £45,000 (ODIs)
Hundred: ~£200,000 ($270,000)
Percent of Annual Income from Central Contract:83.43%
Maximum Days of Cricket: 86 Days (65 – Tests, 9 – ODIs, 12 – Hundred)
England’s national contracts can go as high as £800,000 ($1,079,520) and the top category for the Hundred at £200,000 ($270,000). In addition, match fees for England internationals is as follows: £12,500 (Test), £5,000 (ODI) and £3,500 (T20I).
In the last 12 months, Joe Root has played 9 ODIs and 13 Tests taking his match fee total to £207,500.
Since Joe Root is contracted by ECB, he does not receive extra County salary, but can play for County teams when availability allow (For context, a non-centrally contracted England player earns a minimum of $29,000 and an average of $125,000 from County cricket).
The match fees for Indian cricketers is: $17,500 – 15 Lakh Rs (Test), $7,000 – 6 Lakh Rs (ODI), and $3,500 – 3 Lakh (T20I). At his peak in 2022-2023 when he played all formats, Kohli earned about $435,000 in match fees between 2022-2023 when India played 9 Tests, 27 ODIs, and 20 T20Is)
*This excludes ~$50,000-$75,000 for IPL winning bonus and player of the match awards.
“Australia’s lowest central contract is US$225,000 although the vast majority, if not all, of Australia’s Test XI, would be earning more than US$600,000.”
The match fees tiers are as follows: $12,500 USD (Home Test), $17,725 (Away Test), $4,800 (ODI), $3,800 (T20I). In the last 12 months, Starc has played 7 Tests (5 home, 2 away), 6 ODIs, and 5 T20Is.
*Starc has not played in the Big Bash for about a decade. An Australia player who plays BBL and 3 formats can earn an additional $200,000-$300,000 to what Starc is earning.
International cricket is crumbling in front of our eyes.
QDK, Pooran, and Klaasen won’t be the last ones to walk away. If ICC and the national boards do not get their act together soon (which they probably won’t), the fabric of international cricket will be completely destroyed.
They have forced a question that we can no longer ignore:
Choice 1: The Professional’s Choice
Franchise leagues offer higher pay, more personal freedom, and more chances to be a ‘big fish in a small pond.’ With only 4-5 years of peak, cricketers need to earn to live off the next 40-50 years of their lives. From this lens, leaving the international arena is not abandonment. It is a necessary decision.
Choice 2: The Purist’s Stand
Playing for one’s country represents history and purpose. T20 leagues pay well, but they do not build a legacy. And how much is enough? Isn’t one IPL league good enough to complement international cricket? At some point, the player needs to meet the cricket board halfway.
Now that you know the salary estimates, put yourself in their shoes.
What would you choose? Would love to know your thoughts. Comment Below.
****
Here are all of our salary breakdowns for different franchise leagues:
So, I went digging through a decade’s worth of Cricket West Indies financial reports.
What I found was surprising: West Indies may have pulled off one of the biggest financial turnarounds in recent cricket history, and no one is talking about it.
Key Takeaways
Cricket West Indies flipped a $20.7 million deficit in 2021 into a $46.2 million surplusby 2024, making a $67 million turnaround in just three years.
Annual revenue in the last 3 years was: $78.6 million (2022), $62.2 million (2023), and $88.3 million (2024). Operating costs ranged from $47-$65 million, while the total comprehensive income came in at: +$20.7, $25.7, and $22.63 million respectively.
India’s tours in 2019, 2022 (along with England), and 2023 played a pivotal role in the recovery, driving media rights revenue of $33 million (2019), $34 million (2022), and $22 million (2023).
The 2024 T20 World Cup generated a regional economic impact of over a $1 billion, while ticketing revenue jumped from $3.5 million in 2023 to $18.5 million in 2024.
Then came 2018, and the books unraveled, when CWI suffered a loss of -$18,563,370, triggered largely by a fall in media rights.
Media rights income fell from $22.5 million in 2017 to just $986,052 in 2018, slashing their total revenue from $42.3 million to $20.9 million, while expenses remained high.
As CWI’s 2018 financial statement explained,
“During 2018, two unpopular tours took place which resulted in the Company incurring a significant lost of $22,198,011...”
That year, West Indies hosted Sri Lanka and Bangladesh, and toured Zimbabwe and New Zealand, series that likely failed to generate commercial traction. To manage cash flow, CWI secured a $5 million bond issue and $5 million mortgage loan from the Sagicor Bank Jamaica Limited to improve cash flow shortfalls.
In 2019, India toured the West Indies for 3 T20Is, 3 ODIs, and 2 Tests, which helped them get back up the feet. Media rights bounced back to $33 million, pushing the total revenue that year to $69 million and bringing the deficit back down to around $3 million.
From Crisis to Recovery: The Years After the Fall
Even though 2019 helped CWI get back to their feet, momentum stalled again during the the COVID-19 pandemic.
By 2021, the board was facing a $21 million deficit. However, three consecutive years of $20 million-plus total comprehensive income has completely flipped the equation, taking CWI from crisis to a mammoth surplus of $46 million.
*Note: During this period, CWI also began publishing consolidated financial statements, which incorporates other subsidiaries. Below is a summary of their surplus of consolidated financials (separate financial statements in parentheses)
2019:-$2,827,090 (-$3,017,035)
2020:-$10,747,720* (-$13,317,466)
2021:-$20,724,375** (-$23,438,047)
2022:-$9,711 (-$2,601,515)
2023:+$25,680,789, (+$12,047,709)
2024:+$46,218,992*** (+$34,904,963)
*Includes +$2.6 million non-controlling interest, **Adjusted in 2022 with a +$408,205 correction, ***Includes -$2.1 million change in non-controlling interest
Revenues, Operating Cost, and Total Comprehensive Income (2020-2024)
Year
Revenues
Operating Cost
Other Gains/Charges*
Total Comprehensive Income
2020
+$23,716,763
-$34,095,315
-$142,078
-$10,520,630
2021
+$27,879,487
-$38,081,453
-$182,893
-$10,384,860
2022
+$78,646,235
-$57,123,254
-$808,317
+$20,714,664
2023
+$62,252,743
-$47,016,811
+10,454,568
+$25,690,500
2024
+$88,354,688
-$65,424,187
-$292,198
+$22,638,203
*Others gains/charges include revalution of land and property, finance costs, net income attributable to non-controlling assets, etc..
Other Notes:
$7 million in bad debt due to T20 World Cup remains to be paid back but is expected to be recovered in the coming years.
In 2024, operating expenses included $28,576,049 in administrative costs and $36,848,238 in tour/tournament costs.
Of the $36.7 million, $4 million was for World Cup event cost, $6.3 million was fees paid to territorial boards, $13 million for player payments, $7 million for airfares and accommodation, and about $6 million in miscellaneous expenses (prize money, umpire cost, meal allowances, selectors’ cost, fitness and conditioning, balls and gears, etc.)
What Drove The Largest Financial Gain between 2022-2024?
Revenue jumped from $27 million to $78 million in 2022, which erased a large portion of their deficit. This was largely due to the India & England tours and numerous sponsorship deals.
“Subsequent to the financial year, the Group has entered two (2) new sponsorship agreements with CG United and IMG Arena, for USD $6 Mil and USD $1.4 Mil, over the next four (4) years 2023-2026…In addition to the annual distribution from ICC of USD $17 Mil, the Group will receive a surplus of USD $9 Mil in April 2024, further strengthening the Group’s cashflow position. Although 2021 was a loss-making year, because of the England and India tours in 2022, the Group has fully recovered these losses, ending the year with Net Income of USD $21 Mil.”
In 2022, media rights brought them about $34 million, ICC distribution and other host fees around $24 million, sponsorship about $8.1 million, and ticket sales around $7.7 million.
India visited WI next year again, which continued to boost their finances. In addition,
“Trade and other receivables increased by $19.8 million compared to 2022. This increase was mainly driven by accrued revenue from various sources such as FanCode, ICC Surplus Distribution for the cycle ending 2023, and ESPN USA.”
How Much did the Revenue Increase in 2024 due to the T20 World Cup?
2023
2024
ICC Distribution, Participation & Host Fees
+$28,964,754
+$46,683,506
Ticketing Revenue
+$3,542,864
+$18,598,560
Media Rights
+$22,192,941
+$14,994,612
Other Revenue*
+$7,552,184
+$8,078,010
Total
+$62,252,743
+$88,354,688
Note: Other Revenue consists of Sponsorship, Rights & Licenses/Merchandise, Release Fees, Development Income, ‘Other Revenue’, and Coolidge Cricket Ground (CCG), where CWI acquired an additional 32% stake (total 92% stake)
2024 World Cup Stats
$120 million invested in stadium upgrades to prepare for the 2024 T20 World Cup
$18.6 million generated in ticketing revenue, compared to $3 million from years before
2000 people involved in planning of the event
$600,000 recorded in merchandise sale
53 million concurrent viewers, 1.3 billion digital view views
16,400 children and 687 schools/academies involved in official Schools Programme
Here are some quotes from Dr. Kishore Shallow, President of Cricket West Indies and CEO of CWI, Chris Dehring on the success of the 2024 T20 World Cup.
“Beyond the boundary, we have taken significant steps to strengthen the foundation of West Indies cricket. The successful execution of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup in the Caribbean was not just a sporting triumph but an economic milestone, generating over USD 1 billion in economic impact across the six host nations.“
“In addition, we secured a historic commercial partnership with Caribbean CAGE, a game-changing agreement worth over USD 100 million that will provide the financial stability needed to invest in our teams, infrastructure, and grassroots development.”
“After many years of our critical stakeholders calling for a measure of reform, we have also made critical strides in governance, implementing term limits and extending the presidential term to years—key steps in ensuring stability, accountability, and a long-term vision for West Indies cricket…we introduced a more data-driven selection and scouting system…“
“Among these was the unprecedented six-year media rights arrangement with ESPN Carribean,..From a financial perspective, 2024 also marked a landmark year for CWI. Our net income of $ 23 million, driven by the success of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup, bolstered our financial position. This will help us navigate the next two years, which are expected to be leaner, and which will require continued prudent financial management.Importantly, we also paid off all institutional debt.“
Sources: Here is the CWI webpage with the last 10 years of annual reports. The year ending is September 30 for each year. So the 2024 Annual Report is between the periods of 09/30/2023 and 09/30/2024. The ‘Consolidated Financial Statements’ were used for this analysis.
Results remain below part on the field. They failed to qualify for the 2023 ODI World Cup and 2025 Champions Trophy, ranked 8/9 in both the WTC cycles, and are sitting at #9 in both women’s and men’s ODI rankings.
But off the field, the picture has changed dramatically. With a change in governance and a $67 million financial turnaround, this recovery is one of the quietest yet most significant in recent cricket history.
After weathering the 2018 collapse and the COVID years, CWI now has the financial stability to invest in its future, bolstered by a successful hosting of the 2024 T20 World Cup. With renewed focus on grassroots crickets, the foundations are finally in place.
The question now is whether the performances can catch up.
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In I Have the Streets, R Ashwin doesn’t just tell his story, he reveals the person behind the player. Cricketers are people too, filled with desires, doubt, flaws, and fire.
There is so much to learn from Ashwin. And what better way to understand his mind than through his own words?
His story is one of self-doubt but also fierce self-belief, a touch of ego but with quiet confidence, a desire to disrupt, but also a willingness to learn. And above all, it’s grounded in a deep love for cricket from the streets of Chennai to the grandest stages in the world.
So here are 25 quotes from R Ashwin’s autobiography that offer a window into the mind behind the cricketer.
Right at the beginning of the book, you realize that Ashwin suffered from health issues as a child, which lingered into adulthood. At every stage, he faces self-doubts, fitness issues, social awkwardness, and a constant desire to fit in.
1. “I don’t eat much, but I play a lot. If I eat or drink too much, I vomit. If I run hard, I cough, which leads to vomiting. I play, I cough, I vomit and I continue playing. On an average, I have wheezing bouts twice a month. Each one lasts six or seven days.”
2. “Everybody else just assumes everyone knows Hindi and sets off speaking their own version of Hindi. I find it rude and alienating that no one makes an effort to talk to the one boy who doesn’t know their language…I feel left out, humiliated and intimidated.”
3. “No one watches me bowl and goes, ‘Wow’…I genuinely need that acceptance, though, to lose that feeling of being in awe all the time. I want to be one of them as soon as possible. So I’m always trying to analyze how they are looking at me. What is running through their heads? Do they think I am a proper cricketer or just a guy to make up the numbers.”
4. “I am not good at assessing people and knowing what to say to whom.”
5. “I am amazed that even Murali has self-doubt….These are inhuman expectations of him, but he doubts himself too, just like other humans.”
Life Lessons #1: External pressure, internal fears, and the desire to belong, they are all part of life. The key is to stay grounded in who you are and turn those doubts into positive energy.
Proving a Point, Over and Over Again
Whether it was the Ranji Trophy, the IPL, or the Indian time, Ashwin has had to prove himself over and over again. His interests in movies and engineering degree already made him a well-rounded person, and switching from a batter to an off-spinner made him a cricketing all-rounder. Resetting and performing repeatedly in different areas of life speaks to the strength of his mental resolve.
6. “Not for the first time, I find myself in a situation where nobody gives me a chance. I suspect nobody wants to give me a chance. My response is the only one I know: work harder, run harder, push harder.“
7. “Anirudha and I show up, we sign our contracts, and then VB gives us a glorious speech on what a huge opportunity this is. ‘You guys will rub shoulders with the likes of Michael Hussey, M.S. Dhoni, Matthew Hayden, and Muralidaran’…listen to it earnestly but also think to myself, ‘I am not here to rub shoulders with them, I am here to show that I belong here.'”
8. “It has been such a quick turnaround. From being a batter who bowled some seam-up, I am now an offspinner with one-and-a-half successful first-class seasons behind me.”
10. “One of the three streams offered to me, I pick computer engineering….I feel like I will die trying to balance studies and cricket. It feels like these four years of my life will never end…Every day is a hustle, trying to manage both college and cricket.”
Life Lesson #2: Challenges will come. And when they do, channel your inner R Ashwin and work harder, run harder, and push harder. In striving to prove a point, you may just discover excellence.
Always Asking, Always Evolving
Ashwin has kept evolving his game throughout the years. He has changed his action numerous times, invented new deliveries, and even became a T20 finisher.
But how did he get here? Ashwin evolved because he never stopped asking questions. From local bowlers to legends, he kept learning.
9. “It is during one of these [tennis ball] games that I come across SK. He has a beautiful and correct offspinner’s action, but the ball turns in weird directions and zips off the dusty surfaces…He is a bit of a terror in these matches. I am completely fascinated by what he does with the ball. So I start shadowing him. I take my bike and ride to wherever he is playing…I finally approach him to ask him how he does is. He is nice enough to show me that he flicks it with the middle finger and sends it out of the front of his hand when he wants to turn in the other way…In Madras, it is called the sodakku ball.”
11. “…Haydos’s company. I hesitate to speak with him; I wait for him to finish whatever he is doing and then introduce myself. He is extremely friendly. I ask him all the kinds of questions, and he patiently answers. I suspect he enjoys having conversations…How do you deal with pressure? How do you face Murali? How do you stand at slip for Shane Warne? I’ve watched you take some great catches; what is your mindset at slips?”
Influence of WV Raman and MS Dhoni
The most compelling moments in the book come from R Ashwin’s experiences with his mentor, WV Raman and his first early interactions with MS Dhoni. With Raman, you can vividly picture Ashwin honing his skills and elevating his craft. With Dhoni, you witness the foundation of a partnership that would shape Indian cricket for the next decade.
12. “Raman and I are made for each other. For the life of me, I can’t keep repeating the same thing. And Raman the coach comes up with something every day to help me keep discovering sping bowling to the fullest. One fine day, he tells me, run in 5 percent slower. Then another day, run in 10 percent faster.”
13. “…but Raman told me taking the new ball was the wrong call. And I told him, we had them nine down, trusted my seam attack, and they didn’t deliver…Raman said, ‘No, you’re wrong. Own up to your mistake. And do not come and tell me they didn’t deliver. If they didn’t deliver, you have a part in it.”
14. “When it comes to cricket, I am basically made of questions. MS doesn’t discourage me and answers every single question sincerely. He never brings up the optional nets either.”
15. “Each captain is different. Some can make donkeys run. Some people can buy wounded horses, treat them, train them, and make them run. But M.S. Dhoni will only make a racehorse run. He needs to be convinced you’re a racehorse before he makes you run. He will wait for a racehorse. If he doesn’t believe you’re a racehorse, he’ll probably give you time to become one, but he won’t make you run if you aren’t there yet.”
Life Lesson #3: Growth begins with curiosity. Ask questions. Stay open. The more you seek, the clearer your path becomes.
Indian Cricket Through Ashwin’s Eyes
Ashwin’s love for Indian cricket comes through in the way he speaks about his peers and predecessors.
16. “Tennis-ball cricket is a massive phenomenon in Madras. During the summer break, you can’t pass through a neighbourhood without witnessing at least one intense match going on in the sector ground. You don’t need a proper turf, a pitch or equipment for these games. It is a pure expression of love for the game and competition.”
17. “The other is Cheteshwar Pujara, who is only 15 and has already scored a triple-century in Under-14 cricket….There is an aura around him, an aura of thousands of runs.”
18. “And there are some ruthless players of spin going around…Shiv Sundar Das, Mithun Manhas, Halhadar Das, Robin Uthappa, Yere Goud, Rajat Bhatia, Sanjay Bangar…S. Bharat & Badri.”
19. “I, though, have seen the future of Tamil Nadu cricket and Indian cricket. His name is Dinesh Karthik. He is unlike any player I have seen in Chennai.”
20. “What makes this extra special for me is that Pravin Amre has stuck his neck out for me and overruled the other selectors because I batted in both of the morning sessions and actually scored some runs. This is what we had heard about Bombay: tough runs are valued there.”
Life Lesson #4: India’s cricketing soul doesn’t live in the big stadiums or in the IPL. It lives in the gullies and streets. That’s where toughness is built, where stories begin, and where Indian cricket comes to life.
Dreams Deferred, Dreams Passed Down
Finally, you get to learn about Ashwin’s family life. The sacrifice made by his parents, the dreams of his father, and how it came together with the 2011 World Cup final win. You also get to see Ashwin’s humor and his love for cinema.
21. “All those years ago, Appa traded his dreams for the job security provided by the Indian Railways, also his father’s employer. Ironically, now, a tardily running Indian Railways train is the way of his son’s, and I suspect his own renewed, dream.”
22. “Appa loves his cricket. He is a lower-divison league cricketer, a fast bowler. I am told he is a very good tennis-ball cricketer as well. My oldest memory of cricket is watching him take a wicket on a weekend. He bowled out somebody, sending the bail flying.”
23. “Thatha didn’t allow him to pursue cricket because he didn’t earn enough to raise the family and also provide for his cricketing needs. Appa doesn’t want the same to happen to me. His biggest worry is our orthodox extended family. Sometimes, even Thatha tells him cricket is not going to put food on my plate.”
24.”The movie Chennai 600028 is still fresh in our memories. It is also based on street cricketers. In our minds, we are in a movie.”
25. “Boy, I’m telling you, you’re a really really special cricketer,” Gary tells me…The kind of strides you made from 2009 to 2011 in every aspect of your game…See, everyone comes in here with what they’re good at and also their weaknesses. They continue to play to their strengths, and they try to hide their weaknesses, but very few come in with their strengths, evolve with their strengths, know what their weaknesses are, and work on those weaknesses.”
Life Lesson #5: Behind every dream fulfilled is a sacrifice quietly made. Sometimes, the dreams of one generation find life in the next. It truly does take a village to raise a child.
So, What Can We Learn from R Ashwin?
When I was younger, I liked R Ashwin, but the more I’ve seen him evolve, the more he’s become one of my favorite cricketers. Not just for the skill, but for how he thinks, adapts, and stays true to the game.
So, what did I learn from him?
Ask questions, Own your mistakes. Keep on evolving. Keep adapting. And above all, never stop loving what you do.
Let’s get right to it, here’s a review of I Have the Streets: A Kutti Cricket Story by R Ashwin and Sidharth Monga.
Is R Ashwin’s I Have the Streets: A Kutti Cricket Story Worth your time?
Absolutely. This is a must-read for cricket fans, especially those who have followed Ashwin but never understood how he became the cricketer he is today.
Given Ashwin’s public image as ‘The Scientist,’ I was expecting a book filled with technical breakdowns and tactical detail. What I found and what makes this book so special is how much it humanizes him.
Ashwin is not just a cutthroat competitor who is ready to run you out once you step out of the crease. He is just like any of us: a boy with a dream, a man with self-doubts.
Through his story, you see someone who loves the game deeply, questions everything, and constantly tries to better himself all while navigating health issues, isolation, and a bit of awkwardness.
It is not just a book about cricket. It is a story about belonging.
Read It For
Understanding a cricketer’s view of the Indian cricketing ecosystem from tennis ball matches, grade school cricket, all the way to the international stage
Ashwin’s early impressions of the likes of Pujara, Jadeja, Aniruddha Srikkanth, his awe for Laxmipathy Balandy, Dinesh Karthik, and the broken dreams of S Sharath
Learning how Ashwin got into the game with stories about his father to his memories of watching Tendulkar in Chennai
Mentorship with WV Raman and what practice Ashwin did to take his game to the next level
His playful nostalgia when describing his street cricket friends:
“Sai Kumar, the proper corporate guy. Vivek, a failed cricketer…Raj Kumar, the ‘Jacques Kallis’ from the Silver Foxes.”
You get to learn about local teams like Jolly Rovers and Alwarpet, how Ashwin found the carrom ball from local cricketer SK, how his views around the rules of the game evolved, his awkward interactions, his fitness struggles and burning CDs from an analyst to look at his own game. You learn about his batting development, evolution into a spinner, and changes in action.
The book has no fluff, it gets straight to the point moving from incidents to the incidents, season to season.
Don’t Read It For
A career biography. The story ends with the 2011 ODI World Cup win. If you were expecting dressing room insights about Indian cricket from 2011-2024, you won’t find them here. You will find some glimpses of his rise between 2009-2011, but this is more of a memoir than career in retrospect.
Rating: 4.5/5
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Rating: 4.5 out of 5.
I Have The Streets Where to Buy, and Details
Title Name:I Have the Streets: A Kutti Cricket Story
Authors: Ravichandran Ashwin and Sidharth Monga, Foreword by Rahul Dravid
Publisher Summary: “Ravichandran Ashwin is arguably the greatest match-winner for India in Test cricket. The fastest man to 300 Test wickets, he was a part of the team that won the 2011 World Cup in the ODI format. In T20 cricket, he has won two IPL titles and a Champions League T20. He is a feisty offspinner and more than a handy batter. But that’s only half the tale.
This nuanced portrait delves deep to paint a candid picture of a cricketer’s life before cricket―his struggles with health issues as a child, a middle-class family’s unwavering fight and determination to give him the resources he needed for a professional career in the sport, and the little joys of growing up in a cricket-mad gully.
How does a champion sportsman view the world? What drives him on and off the field? One of the more articulate and thoughtful cricketers, in this book, R. Ashwin tells his story with Sidharth Monga.”
Publisher: Ebury Press (an imprint of Penguin Random House)
Release Date: January 7, 2025
Length: 173
Thank you all for reading! If you read the book, what were your thoughts?
RCB finally ended their IPL drought after 18 years. Now South Africa are chasing that glory moment of their own.
After both the women’s and men’s teams fell short in T20 World Cup Finals, the Proteas have one more chance to life an ICC trophy. But they’ll have to go through Australia.
For the neutral fan, it doesn’t get much better than this. South Africa vs Australia at Lord’s. Two teams raised on pace and bounce, now tested under England’s gloomy skies and swinging ball.
What more could you want from a World Test Championship final?
For South Africa, this is more than just a final. It’s the weight of decades.
Just as the the wounds of 1999 began to fade, fresh ones arrived in 2015 and then 2024, with both women’s and men’s team falling at the brink of glory.
And yet, here they are again. Will 21st time be the charm?
“This isn’t just a match. It’s 40 years of South African pain bottled into five days at Lord’s.”
Australia
For Australia, this is familiar territory. Another final, another title in sight. But there are some interesting underwritings for Australia as well.
This could be the last time we see the quartet of Smith, Starc, Hazlewood, Cummins, and Lyon take the field together in a major series or at least in a final.
Australia arrive with tons of experience: 772 Test caps across the squad, including 136 from Nathan Lyon alone. South Africa, on the other hand, only have 367 Test caps.
A team that knows how to win finals against one trying to believe that they can.
Not long ago, Marnus Labuschagne was averaging over 60 in Tests and was hailed as Steve Smith’s natural successor. Since 2023, that number has plunged to 31.54 with only 1 century. His recent first-class form is no better — scores of 23, 0 & 61, 0 & 4, and 23, the last two coming with Glamorgan in County.
Marnus returns to the country that brought him to limelight against the place of his birth. Can he rediscover his edge when it matters the most?
You simply cannot bet against Steve Smith here. Smith thrives in England: 2,255 runs at 55.00, including 8 centuries. His numbers against South Africa are more modest compared to his otherwise Bradman-esque standards (44.94 average with 2 tons).
Fun Fact:In England, Steve Smith has scored almost three times as many runs as the entire South African team combined.
Marco Jansen vs Cameron Green: The All-Round Battle
Jansen and Green represent different brands of modern-day Test all-rounders. Both have the height, Jansen brings more swing and lower order fight, while Green is a solid batter that bowls when he is required.
Extremely valuable to their sides, if either Jansen or Green get going, they can turn the match.
Rabada vs Head: Tempo vs Temperament
Travis Head can win a session on his own, but Rabada is known to strike frequently.
He takes wickets every 39.4 balls and has an average of 22.4. Already a South African great with 327 wickets, he will want to go the next level and win them the title. And don’t forget, he has a point to prove after his recent suspension.
And then there is Aiden Markram. He might just light up the final with a few of those beautiful cover drives even if his stay is brief.
Squad: Scott Boland, Matthew Kuhneman, Beau Webster
Final Thoughts and Predictions
Social media’s buzzing over Josh Hazlewood’s insane record in finals — 9 out of 9 wins. Can he make it a perfect 10?
This may be South Africa’s best shot at a global title. But under cloudy skies, on a Lord’s pitch that offers something every session, it’s hard to look beyond the Australians — especially that bowling unit.
Broken Dream?
Final Test for Nathan Lyon? His rival, R Ashwin retired a few months ago. This is a season of Test retirements, will this by Lyon’s final hurrah?
Prediction
Heart says South Africa, mind says Australia. But I’m going with my gut: South Africa will win a close match.
Rabada knocks over Khawaja early
Cameos from keepers Carey & Verreyne
Gritty knocks in the second innings by Bavuma & Khawaja
Jansen and Hazlewood use the swing, Jansen dazzles with all-round show
Steve Smith left stranded as the lone warrior
Australia have the experience, but you cannot count South Africa out. Test matches are won in moments, and the Proteas have waited a lifetime to create theirs.
That’s it from me. What are your predictions? Comment below or share on social media!
ESPNCricinfo’s Firdose Moonda recently wrote a fascinating article on how Zimbabwe are set to play 11 Tests this year—as many as Australia— despite not being a part of the World Test Championship. Even more surprisingly, they’re hosting eight of them!
The first thought that crossed my mind? “How in the world is Zimbabwe Cricket (ZC) going to afford hosting 8 Tests?”
So, I went looking for answers.
I dug through 268 pages across four annual reports detailing ZC’s finances from 2018/19 to the 2022/23 season, tracing every ounce of revenue, surplus, and ICC payout…so you don’t have to.
Key Takeaways
At the end of 2017, Zimbabwe Cricket was $18.9 million in debt. By 2022, they had cleaned up their finances and reported a surplus of almost $12 million.
ZC remains heavily reliant on direct ICC distributions, which made up 63.5% of their revenue in 2018, rising to 96.6% (2019), 95.9% (2020), before dropping slightly to 90.7% (2021), and 74.5% (2022). Encouragingly, in 2022, they also earned $2.65 million or 16.74% of their revenue from TV rights, diversifying their income streams.
In 2018, ZC spent $445,763 to host Sri Lanka (2 Tests). The Bangladesh series (1 Test, 3 ODIs, 3 T20Is) in 2021 cost them $993,540, and Pakistan’s visit (2 ODIs, 3 T20Is) added an additional $889,340. Hosting regular World Cup qualifiers also costs ZC around $2-3 million every 2 years, although this is typically offset by an equivalent revenue.
England agreeing to pay Zimbabwe a ‘touring fee’ is a step in the right direction. Between 2018-2022, Zimbabwe paid $100,000-$400,000 to participate in overseas tours regardless of the format.
Having played just 12 Tests from 2020-2024, Zimbabwe are scheduled to play 11 in 2025 – the joint-most of any team 😮 pic.twitter.com/uOJdG5x6KC
One paragraph in Moonda’s article particularly caught my eye,
“….and an ICC suspension for government interference in 2019….Since then, they have cleaned up their finances, in particular and made their annual ICC disbursement of US $13.5 million stretch to fund a five-team domestic system, which includes a first-class competition, the national sides, and to host Tests at $500,000 a pop. This bumper year, hosting Tests will cost them about $4 million.”
This lines up with what I found in my earlier piece, “How Much Does It Take to Host A Test?” where we estimated that hosting a single Test can cost anywhere from $350,000-$1.4 million to host a Test depending on factors like the version of DRS used, size of support staff, logistics, etc.
Understanding Test hosting expenses is only one part of the puzzle. To get the full picture, we need to look at Zimbabwe Cricket’s overall financial health — how much revenue they generate, what they spend on operations, and how they have managed to shift from a deep deficit to a growing surplus.
ZC’s Statement of Comprehensive Income Summarized
Let’s dive into Zimbabwe Cricket’s annual revenue, operating costs, and overall financial health.
We can see the step-by-step progress made by the board over the last five years.
At the end of 31 December 2017, ZC had a deficit or total surplus of $-18,900,427. Their surplus at the end of each subsequent year was as follows:
2017:-$18,900,427 (4 Tests)
2018:-$14,182,531 (2 Tests)
2019:+$3,307,548 (0 Tests)
2020:+$1,568,441, after prior period adjustment of -$533,342 (3 Tests)
2021:+1,293,742 (5 Tests)
2022:+$11,979,997 (0 Tests)
Year
Revenues
Operating Cost
Other Gains/Charges*
Total Comprehensive Incomes
2018
+$14,167,700
-$13,502,975
+$4,053,171
+$4,717,896
2019
+$11,905,334
-$7,174,817
+$12,759,562
+$17,490,079
2020
+$5,520,442
-$6,940,391
+$214,183
-$1,205,766
2021
+$9,318,149
-$9,651,008
+$58,160
-$274,699
2022
+$15,829,422
-$12,118,204
+$6,975,037
+$10,686,255
Operating Surplus per year (Revenues – Operating Cost):
2018: +$664,725
2019: +$4,730,517
2020: -$1,419,949
2021: -$332,859
2022:+$3,711,218
*Note: This section is a net sum of (i) ‘Gain realised on conversion of local liabilities’ and (ii) ‘Finance charges’, (iii) share of profit of investments in subsidiaries accounted for using the equity method, and (iv) revaluation surplus on land and buildings.
We have used the 2022 Annual Report for both 2021 and 2022 years since there was $297,939 period correction from 2021, where inventory was erroneously marked as an operating expense.
Now, let’s take a look at how much revenue Zimbabwe receives from the ICC?
Under the previous ICC distribution model (2016-2023), Zimbabwe was allocated $94 million over seven years, which breaks down to roughly $13.42 million per year on average.
Under the new 2024-27 model, Zimbabwe are set to receive about $17.64 million a year.
Here are the contributions from the last four annual reports. The pandemic years definitely seemed to have an impact on the contribution in 2029.
Year
ICC Contribution
Trades & Receivables from ICC
Total from ICC
2018
$9,000,000
$2,969,358 (ICC Loan)
$11,969,358
2019
$11,500,000
$2,062,079
$13,562,079
2020
$5,292,791
$769,292
$6,062,083
2021
$8,459,915
$3,296
$8,463,211
2022
$11,788, 243
$3,239,324
$15,027,567
Note: In addition to ICC loan in 2018, ZCB also took upon Metbank loan and ZAMCO bank loan which totaled their borrowings to $14.4 million.
Operating Costs on Cricket Expenses
Alongside revenue, we also examined how much of Zimbabwe Cricket’s operating costs go toward organizing and administering cricket.
ZC’s investment in the sport has increased post the pandemic-induced break and signals a renewed commitment in growing the sport.
International Cricket Expenses
Year
International Cricket
Domestic Cricket
Central Administration
2018
-$4,840,396
-$1,457,251
-$1,846,502
2019
-$1,074,007
-$1,110,107
-$630,643
2020
–$1,218,449
-$1,332,304
-$434,704
2021
-$3,624,531
-$1,621,988
-$703,003
2022
-$4,604,893
-$3,115,367
-$947,410
Apart from these three areas, human resources and depreciation & impairment make the rest of their total operating costs.
The year-by-year and series-by-series breakdowns are provided below.
— Broken Cricket Dreams Cricket Blog (@cricket_broken) May 20, 2025
Other Interesting Findings
In 2018, ZCB received $571,949 for hosting the WC Qualifiers, $2.5 million for hosting other events, and $694,013 in sponsorship.
The cost of repairs and maintenance of ground equipment over the 5-year period was as follows: $120,739 (2018), $22,397 (2019), $110,413 (2021), $476,287 (2022).
$100,000 was the cost for the kit for their national team in 2018.
Total Sports Marketing in 2021 was $28,045.
In 2021, ZCB’s cricket income was made up of ICC distributions, World Cup Qualifier ($367,190), TV Rights ($435,381), and sponsorship/other income ($55,663).
In 2022, the new National Premier League (NPL) and Zim Afro T10 cost about $254,181.Women and age group tournaments investments also increased from $34,434 in 2021 to $217,073 in 2022.
Since the ICC suspension, Zimbabwe Cricket has been proactive in getting its financial act together. Even though COVID-19 was disastrous for the rest of their operations, during this period, they paid off their old debt, invested in women’s cricket and grassroot cricket, and inaugurated domestic tournaments like the National Premier League (NPL) and Zimbabwe Afro T10.
Here are some quotes from Tavenga Mukuhlani, ZC’s chairman and Givemore Makoni, the managing director in the annual reports over the 4-year period.
2019/20 Annual Report
With the ICC having frozen funding to ZC, our facilities were in disarray, with grass overgrown and the wickets needing a lot of work (Makoni).
“Having ended as badly as it started, the period under review has without any doubt been Zimbabwe Cricket (ZC)’s annus horribilis...At the close of the just-ended financial year, we had whittled the US$27-million legacy debt down to US$1 million, in the process breaking the chains that had enslaved our organisation to an unending cycle of financial troubles (Mukuhlani).
“With our revenues constrained, we seriously considered laying off staff and cutting salaries as so to future-proof the organisation….So, our only alternative was to live within our budget, which is almost entirely funded through distributions from the ICC” (Makoni).
“There was a time we genuinely feared the 2021/22 season was going to be a total disaster….The global pandemic had a huge impact on every element of the men’s and women’s game, putting huge pressure on our finances, as tours and matches were either cancelled or postponed and revenue streams destroyed….From a business perspective, we came up with the Zimbabwe Cricket Strategic Plan 2021-2026, which outlines the strategic visions and goals that we have identified to help the organisation realise its full potential and better [fulfill] its mission (Mukuhlani).
“From a business perspective, this was the first season in which we could begin to put the financial impact of the COVID-19 pandemic behind us, and we did with another clean audit outcome” (Mukuhlani).
“This Annual Report spans what has been one of my most challenging times as Zimbabwe Cricket (ZC) Chairman….Over the past five years, we have made significant strides in women’s cricket, including, for the first time in the history of the game in Zimbabwe, giving national contracts to women players and offering allowances to non-contracted women players” (Makoni).
One day you open up the news, and what do you see?
Zimbabwe will be playing 11 Tests in a single year. They are touring England for the first time in 22 years. A Curran brother has chosen to represent them, Sean Williams & Sikandar Raza are still going, Blessing Muzarabani leads the world in Test wickets this year, and even Brendon Taylor is in talks of making a comeback after serving his ICC ban.
So…did this happen overnight?
Well, it did not. Remember, Rome was not built in a day.
Since the 2019 ICC suspension, COVID-19 crisis, and failing to qualify for World Cups, Zimbabwe Cricket quietly got to work. They focused on cleaning up their finances, restructuring debt, and restoring stability in domestic cricket.
Now, with a bit of surplus in hand and increased ICC funding coming soon, they can finally dream a little bigger.
One Test at a time.
****
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We knew the end was near. The runs had dried up. The spark wasn’t quite the same.
But he had just won the T20 World Cup in 2024 and looked fit as ever. We thought there was still time—one last tour, one final roar, a 2010 Tendulkar-esque year.
And then, just like that, it was over.
No farewell match. No final Test century.
Just the silence that follows the end of something important, the kind that lingers when you never got to say goodbye.
Those five days in Adelaide changed everything. Twin centuries and going for the win in the 2nd innings. Although that shot to Nathan Lyon still haunts me, that loss still felt like a win.
India was not afraid because Kohli was not afraid.
In Melbourne, Kohli and his partner in crime, Rahane, took Johnson on and shred him apart. They matched Australia’s pace attack blow for blow.
Remember, this is the same Mitchell Johnson that was at his peak in 2013, single-handedly dismantling England’s No. 1 Test team and striking fear in the eyes of South Africa’s batters.
For anybody that lived through the 0-8 horrors of 2011, this felt like a beginning of a new dawn for Indian Test cricket.
Kohli didn’t just play.
He fought. Believed. He risked it to see how far he and his team could go.
“Yesterday I was clever, so I wanted to change the world. Today I am wise, so I am changing myself.”
— Rumi
Over the years, Kohli did not just evolve as a cricketer, but grew as a human being.
He carried the weight of a nation. He changed his lifestyle and started a fitness revolution.
To help India win abroad, he nurtured a bowling attack that would become the envy of the world. He did more for Test cricket than the World Test Championship itself.
He began his career trying to prove his worth to everybody By the time he retired, he had become a father & a family, a wise leader, and a teammate others could count on.
I wanted him to score runs and wear his heart on his sleeve because he lived the way I sometimes wished I could. He was everything I never quite let myself be.
He taught me to never back down, keep pushing even when I didn’t feel like it. But most of all, he showed me what it means to give yourself completely to your craft.
You can question his antics. You can question his demeanor. But you can’t question his commitment. And that—that’s who I’d like to be.
Test cricket loses more than just a cricketer or batter today. It loses its soul, its most passionate son.
Goodbye, Virat. And thank you. For making us feel…well everything. Carrying Test cricket like it mattered more than anything else. Showing us what it looks like to care.
Kohli gave us joy. He entertained us.
Frustrated us, inspired us, and earned our respect. He even made us question his technique outside off.
He made us smile. And now, he’s making us cry.
Goodbye, Virat.
****
Thank you all for reading!
They were not quite their predecessors. But they were ours.
Pujara didn’t scale Dravid’s walls. Rahane couldn’t emulate Laxman’s miracles. Rohit didn’t dominate Test match opening like Sehwag once did. And Virat didn’t quite reach the mountain top Tendulkar stood on.
Who are the greatest English cricketers of them all?
England’s 150-year cricket history has ebbed and flowed between golden eras and long spells of frustration.
But much has changed in recent years. With new greats like Joe Root, Ben Stokes, Alastair Cook, Jimmy Anderson, and Stuart Broad cementing their legacies, and the World Cup triumphs of 2010, 2019, and 2022 redefining England’s white-ball identity, the landscape looks different now.
Which is why today, we are revisiting the legends of English cricket across formats and era— from Hobbs to Root, from Grace to Stokes— where every era left its own unforgettable mark.
Key Takeaways
Joe Root tops the list as the greatest English cricketer of all time, followed by legends like Ian Botham, Ben Stokes, Wally Hammond, James Anderson, Jack Hobbs, Alastair Cook, Graham Gooch, Kevin Pietersen, and Len Hutton rounding out the Top 10.
The Top 65 features a well-balanced mix: 10 all-rounders, 9 fast bowlers, 7 spinners, 5 wicketkeepers, and 34 specialist batters.
Era-wise, the list includes 26 players who featured after the year 2000, 22 players from the 1950–1990 era, and 17 pioneers from 1877 to 1950.
To bring more structure, today we introduce a simple yet comprehensive points-based ranking system designed to fairly compare the greatest across eras, formats, and roles.
Clutch innings, key spells, decisive contributions under pressure.
Big Stage Impact
20
Performances in World Cups, ICC finals, or major Test series like the Ashes.
Longevity
15
Sustained excellence across years; number of matches.
Versatility
10
Success across formats, roles, conditions (e.g., all-rounders).
Accolades
10
Major awards, ICC recognitions, Player of the Match/Series awards.
Leadership
5
Impact as captain, leading bowling attacks, building winning cultures or historic victories.
Bonus Points
Bonus
Points
What It Rewards
Era Bonus
5
For excelling in tougher eras (uncovered pitches, no World Cups, etc.).
Fielding/Wicketkeeping Bonus
3
Outstanding fielding, slip catching, or wicketkeeping achievements.
100-Test Bonus
2
Reward for longevity milestones (100+ Tests played).
For the Era bonus, pre-1950 players received +5, 1950-1975 got +4 (when more Tests were played), 1975-1990 players got +3 (when ODI cricket was introduced), 1990-2002 players got +2.
In an event of a tie, a player who played more Test matches won the tiebreaker.
The point system may still include a bit of subjectivity, but you can see my thought process with this ranking. It was difficult to differentiate between #17-35 since each player excelled in one area or the other.
Note: This ranking only considers performances in the international arena (Test, T20, ODI) and not in County Cricket, other domestic cricket, or franchise T20 leagues (even though FC stats will be provided for players from earlier eras).
Top 65 Greatest English Cricketers of All-Time (Ranked)
Honorable Mentions: Those Who Came Close
Players who had exceptional careers and moments but just missed the cut for the Top 65.
Those Who Just Missed Out (66-70): Keith Fletcher, Angus Fraser, Frank Tyson, Geoff Arnold, Douglas Jardine
Others Considered:
Matthew Hoggard, Mark Butcher, Matt Prior, Ashley Giles, Andy Caddick, Steve Harmison, Dominic Cork, Criag Kieswetter, Liam Plunkett, Simon Jones, Monty Panesar, Alex Hales, Ted Dexter, Robin Smith, Mike Hendrick, Fletcher, Maurice Leyland, TG Evans, Bob Taylor, Jack Russell, Stanley Jackson, Tim Bresnan, David Lloyd, Mark Wood, Chris Jordan, Graeme Hick, John Emburey, Fred Titmus, Chris Old, Mike Smith, Archie Maclaren, Alfred Shaw, Basil D’Oliveira
Possible Future Stars: Harry Brook, Jofra Archer, Ollie Pope, Sam Curran, Ben Duckett, Ollie Robinson
51-65: The Final Cut
Players who rose through the grind to leave their mark—not flawless, but unforgettable.
65. Mike Brearley (1976–1981, Middlesex) — 55 Points
Role: Batter (Captaincy Specialist)
Statistically not significant, Brearley makes the list on the back of his captaincy folklore. Mike Brearley led England through famous Ashes victories, maximizing the talents of those around him.
Matches: 39 Tests, 25 ODIs
Runs: 1442 (Tests), 510 (ODIs)
Hundreds: 0 (Tests), 0 (ODIs)
Player of Match Awards: 0
Player of Series Awards: 0
World Cup Winner? ❌
Captained England? ✅ (captained 31 Tests)
100 Tests? ❌
Notable Achievements: Legendary captain of England’s 1981 Ashes comeback; known for bringing the best out of Ian Botham. W/L ratio of 4.5 (only second to Douglas Jardine’s 9.00). Wisden Cricketer (1977).
Without Jason Roy, Australia would have won another ODI World Cup. Without Jason Roy, England’s white ball revolution would have been incomplete.
Role: Right-hand opening batter
Matches: 116 (ODIs), 64 (T20Is), 5 (Tests)
Runs: 4271 (ODIs), 1522 (T20Is), 187 (Tests)
Hundreds: 12 (ODIs)
Player of Match Awards: 15
Player of Series Awards: 1
World Cup Winner? ✅ (2019 ODI WC)
Captained England? ❌
100 Tests? ❌
Notable Achievements: 3rd Most Hundreds in ODI cricket for England, Key figure in 2019 World Cup winning team, set multiple ODI partnership records with Jonny Bairstow.
Notable Achievements: Captained England to historic 2005 Ashes victory, vital figure in England’s early 2000s resurgence, Wisden Cricketer (2003). Member of 2007 ICC Test Team of the Year
59. Marcus Trescothick (2000–2006, Somerset) — 71 Points
Role: Left-hand Opening Batter
A fearless and free-scoring opener, Marcus Trescothick set the tone for England’s resurgence in the early 2000s with his aggressive approach at the top of the order.
Matches: 123 (ODIs), 76 (Tests), 3 (T20Is)
Runs: 4335 (ODIs), 5825 (Tests), 166 (T20Is)
Hundreds: 12/14 (ODI/Tests), Average: 43.79/37.37
Player of Match Awards: 13
Player of Series Awards: 4
World Cup Winner? ❌
Captained England? ✅ (briefly in 2 Tests and 10 ODIs)
100 Tests? ❌
Notable Achievements: Key architect of 2005 Ashes win, multiple ODI centuries, dominant opening partnerships, Wisden Cricketer (2005)
57. Chris Woakes — 72 Points (2011–Present, Warwickshire)
Role: Right-arm Fast-Medium Bowling Allrounder
A quiet achiever in England’s rise to white-ball dominance, Woakes delivered crucial spells in the 2019 World Cup semifinal and final, while offering reliable lower-order runs and new-ball consistency across formats.
Matches: 48 Tests, 119 ODIs, 33 T20Is
Wickets: 130 (Tests), 166 (ODIs), 29 (T20Is)
Runs: 1861 (Tests), 1526 (ODIs)
Hundreds: 1 (Test)
Player of Match Awards: 10
Player of Series Awards: 3
World Cup Winner? ✅ ✅ (2019 ODI WC, 2022 T20 WC)
Captained England? ❌
100 Tests? ❌
Notable Achievements: 2019 World Cup semifinal – Player of the Match; consistent contributor in both white and red-ball cricket; one of England’s most trusted bowlers in recent years across conditions.
56. Moeen Ali (2014–Present, Worcestershire) — 73 Points
Role: All-Rounder (Left Arm Batter, Right Arm Off Spin)
England’s dynamic all-rounder across formats, Moeen Ali’s versatility and attacking flair made him a critical figure in both red-ball and white-ball revolutions. Part of England’s rise in limited overs cricket.
Matches: 138 (ODIs), 92 (T20Is), 68 (Tests)
Runs: 2355 (ODIs), 1229 (T20Is), 3094 (Tests)
Hundreds: 3/5 (Tests)
Wickets: 112 (ODIs), 53 (T20Is), 204 (Tests)
5-fers: 5 (Tests)
Player of Match Awards: 20
Player of Series Awards: 2
World Cup Winner? ✅✅
Captained England? ✅ (captained in 12 T20Is)
100 Tests? ❌
Notable Achievements: 6th highest Player of the Match awards for England, Member of 2019 World Cup and 2022 T20 World Cup winning squads, crucial all-format contributions. Wisden Cricketer (2015),
England’s premier off-spinner of the modern era, Graeme Swann combined attacking flair with relentless consistency, playing a pivotal role in England’s rise to the No.1 Test ranking.
Matches: 79 (ODIs), 60 (Tests), 39 (T20Is)
Wickets: 104 (ODIs), 255 (Tests), 51 (T20Is)
5-fers: 1 (ODIs), 17 (Tests)
Player of Match Awards: 9
Player of Series Awards: 3
World Cup Winner? ✅ (2010 T20 WC)
Captained England? ❌
100 Tests? ❌
Notable Achievements: Key bowler in England’s No. 1 Test team era, dominated 2009 and 2010–11 Ashes series, first English spinner to 50 T20I wickets. England’s fifth highest wicket-taker across formats, Wisden Cricketer (2010). Member of ICC Test Team of the Year (2010-11, 13) & 2011 ODI Team of the Year.
54. Adil Rashid (2009–Present, Yorkshire) — 74 Points
Role: Leg-Spinner
A world-class wrist spinner, Adil Rashid has been at the heart of England’s white-ball revolution, delivering consistently on the biggest stages including World Cup triumphs.
Matches: 19 (Tests), 132 (ODIs), 103 (T20Is)
Wickets: 60 (Tests), 207 (ODIs), 131 (T20Is)
Player of Match Awards: 11
Player of Series Awards: 3
World Cup Winner? ✅✅
Captained England? ❌
100 Tests? ❌
Notable Achievements: Crucial figure in England’s 2019 ODI World Cup and 2022 T20 World Cup victories; among England’s leading wicket-takers in white-ball cricket.
A tough, resilient opener, John Edrich combined immense patience with occasional ferocity, becoming one of England’s most reliable run-scorers during the 1960s and early 1970s.
Matches: 77 (Tests), 564 (FC)
Runs: 5,138 (Tests), 39,790 (FC)
Hundreds: 12/103 (Tests/FC), Average: 43.54
World Cup Winner? ❌
Captained England? ✅ (briefly captained one Test in 1971)
100 Tests? ❌
Notable Achievements: Scored 310* against New Zealand, crossed 100 first-class centuries milestone, key anchor in multiple Ashes campaigns, 1966 Wisden Cricketer.
A gritty, elegant craftsman, Graham Thorpe stood tall during a turbulent era for England, consistently delivering against top attacks around the world.Rest in peace.
Matches: 100 (Tests), 82 (ODIs)
Runs: 6744 (Tests). 2380 (ODIs)
Hundreds: 16 (Tests), Average: 44.66 (Tests)
Player of Match Awards: 10
Player of Series Awards: 2
World Cup Winner? ❌
Captained England? ❌
100 Tests? ✅
Notable Achievements: Stabilized England’s middle-order during the 1990s, key role in setting up the Vaughan-era resurgence, 1998 Wisden Cricketer
Career Stats (20)
Match-Winning (20)
Big Stage Impact (20)
Longevity (15)
Versatility (10)
Accolades (10)
Leadership (5)
Era Bonus (5)
Fielding Bonus (3)
100-Test Bonus (2)
Total
15
14
12
12
6
8
0
2
3
2
74
41-50: The Battle Hardened Greats
This tier includes battle-hardened leaders, early era greats, and players who quietly stitched together the spine of England’s teams — often without the spotlight, but never without impact.
Notable Achievements: England’s leading Test wicket-taker at retirement, dominated the 1953 Ashes, famous for mastery of the leg-cutter, Wisden Cricketer (1947)
49. Allan Lamb (1982–1992, Northamptonshire) — 75 Points
Role: Batter
A stylish, aggressive middle-order batsman, Allan Lamb was a pillar of England’s batting through the 1980s, shining brightly in high-pressure World Cup campaigns and major Test series. Lamb’s 45 (55) kept England close in the 1987 World Cup Final. So close, yet so far.
Matches: 79 Tests, 122 ODIs
Runs: 4,656 (Tests), 4,010 (ODIs)
Hundreds: 14 (Tests), 4 (ODIs)
Player of Match Awards: 14
Player of Series Awards: 2
World Cup Winner? ❌
Captained England? ✅ (briefly captained in 1990)
100 Tests? ❌
Notable Achievements: Key contributor to England’s run to the 1987 ODI WC Final, critical knocks during the 1986-87 Ashes, 1981 Wisden Cricketer.
48. Mike Gatting (1977–1995, Middlesex) — 75 Points
Role: Right-handed Middle-Order Batter
Gritty, resilient, and unafraid to take on the fastest bowlers of his time, Gatting helped England through a turbulent era with a combination of toughness and leadership.
Captained England? ✅ (led England to Ashes victory in 1986–87)
100 Tests? ❌
Notable Achievements: Captained England to their last Ashes victory in Australia for 24 years (1986–87), remembered for bravery against pace and playing a key part in England’s 1980s rebuild, Wisden Cricketer (1984)
One of cricket’s earliest true batting artists, Ranjitsinhji dazzled with elegance, introducing the leg glance and redefining batting technique for generations to follow.
Matches: 15 (Tests), 307 (First-Class)
Runs: 989 (Tests), 24,692 (First-Class)
Hundreds: 2 (Tests), 72 (First-Class)
World Cup Winner? ❌
Captained England? ❌
100 Tests? ❌
Notable Achievements: Revolutionized batting with innovation and wristy strokeplay; scored a century on Test debut against Australia; his fluid style left a lasting legacy on the game’s evolution, Wisden Cricketer (1897)
One of England’s most prolific and dependable batsmen between the wars, Hendren was known for his technical mastery, durability, and cheerful resilience at the crease.
Matches: 51 (Tests), 833 (FC)
Runs: 3525 (Tests), 57611 (FC) — second-most in history)
Hundreds: 7 (Tests), 170 (FC)
World Cup Winner? ❌
Captained England? ❌
100 Tests? ❌
Notable Achievements: Wisden Cricketer (1920), Scored over 57,000 first-class runs and 170 centuries; held England’s record for most Test appearances (51) until post-WWII; pivotal figure in stabilizing England’s batting during the interwar period.
Role: Right-handed Middle-Order Batter and Right-arm Medium-Fast Bowler (Allrounder)
Charismatic and controversial, Greig was a fierce competitor who inspired England with his leadership and impactful all-round performances in the 1970s.
Matches: 58 (Tests), 22 (ODIs)
Runs: 3599 (Tests), 269 (ODIs)
Wickets: 141 (Tests), 19 (ODIs)
Hundreds: 8 (Tests), 32 (FC)
5-fers: 4 (Tests), 45 (FC)
Player of the Series Awards: 1
World Cup Winner? ❌
Captained England? ✅ (led in 14 Tests, 1975–77)
100 Tests? ❌
Notable Achievements: Wisden Cricketer (1975), Consistently contributed with both bat and ball; captained England through a volatile era; known for his fighting spirit and adaptability in overseas conditions, especially against West Indies and Australia.
44. Tom Graveney (1951-1969, Gloucestershire & Worcestershire) — 76 Points
Role: Batter
A classical and elegant batsman, Tom Graveney combined grace with mountainous run-scoring, leaving behind one of the most prolific careers in English first-class history.
Matches: 79 (Tests), 515 (FC)
Runs: 4882 (Tests), 47793 (FC)
Hundreds: 11/122 (Tests, FC), Average: 44.37
Player of Match Awards: 1
Captained England? ✅ (captained 1 Test match)
100 Tests? ❌
Notable Achievements: 1953 Wisden Cricketer, Helped England regain the 1954-55 Ashes, Wisden Cricketer of the Year (1953)
43. Ian Bell (2004–2015, Warwickshire) — 76 Points
Role: Right-hand middle-order batter
England’s greatest cover driver.
Matches: 161 (ODIs), 118 (Tests), 8 (T20Is)
Runs: 5416 (ODIs), 7727 (Tests), 188 (T20Is)
Hundreds: 4 (ODIs), 22 (Tests)
Player of Match Awards: 13
Player of Series Awards: 3
World Cup Winner? ❌
Captained England? ❌
100 Tests? ✅
Notable Achievements: figure in multiple Ashes wins, ICC Champions Trophy finalist, among England’s most aesthetically pleasing batters, 2008 Wisden Cricketer, 2006 Emerging Cricketer of the Year.
One of the greatest spin bowlers England has ever produced, Hedley Verity’s immaculate control and devastating spells made him a giant of the pre-war era. Tragically passed away at the age of 38 as a prisoner of war.
A magician with the ball, Jim Laker’s pinpoint accuracy and variations culminated in one of Test cricket’s greatest feats — 19 wickets in a single match.
Matches: 46 (Tests), 450 (FC)
Wickets: 193 (Tests), 1,944 (FC)
5-Wicket Hauls: 9/127 (Tests/FC)
Captained England? ❌
100 Tests? ❌
Notable Achievements: 19 wickets in a single Test (Old Trafford 1956), cornerstone of England’s spin dominance in the 1950s, Wisden Cricketer (1952)
Career Stats (20)
Match-Winning (20)
Big Stage Impact (20)
Longevity (15)
Versatility (10)
Accolades (10)
Leadership (5)
Era Bonus (5)
Fielding Bonus (3)
100-Test Bonus (2)
Total
16
18
14
12
5
8
0
4
0
0
77
31-40: The Defining Performers
Players who created decisive moments and major contributions even if not consistent dominators.
40. Paul Collingwood (2001–2011, Durham) — 77 Points
Role: All-Rounder
England’s ultimate team man, Paul Collingwood’s gritty batting, sharp fielding, and occasional bowling made him a pillar in all formats.
Matches: 197 (ODIs), 68 (Tests), 36 (T20Is)
Runs: 5092 (ODIs), 4259 (Tests), 583 (T20Is)
Hundreds: 10/5 (Tests), Average: 40.56/35.36
Wickets: 111 (ODIs), 17 (Tests), 16 (T20Is)
5-fers: 1 (ODIs)
Player of Match Awards: 16
Player of Series Awards: 0
World Cup Winner? ✅
Captained England? ✅
100 Tests? ❌
Notable Achievements: 2010 T20 World Cup-winning captain, three-time Ashes winner, known for spectacular fielding, Wisden Cricketer (2007) & Member of 2010 ICC ODI Team of the Year
Pioneered the wicketkeeper-batter role. Become one of England’s most reliable and stylish run-scorers in the 1930s.
Matches: 47 (Tests), 593 (FC)
Runs: 2434 (Tests), 37248 (FC)
Hundreds: 8 (Tests), 102 (FC)
Dismissals: 74 (Tests), 417 (FC)
World Cup Winner? ❌
Captained England? ✅ (captained 1 Test match in 1939)
100 Tests? ❌
Notable Achievements: First Wicketkeeper to score 100 FC hundreds, Record holder for most Test centuries (8) by a designated keeper (stood for decades). Wisden Cricketer (1929)
Sharp, aggressive, and fiercely competitive, John Snow spearheaded England’s bowling attacks in the late 1960s and early 1970s, thriving in hostile conditions and big series.
Notable Achievements: Lead bowler in England’s famous 1970–71 Ashes triumph; remembered for devastating spells against Australia and West Indies; among the finest hostile quicks of his generation, Wisden Cricketer (1973)
37. Michael Atherton (1989–2001, Lancashire) — 78 Points
Role: Right-hand opening batter
A stoic and resilient opener, Michael Atherton embodied grit and determination, often leading England’s resistance against dominant oppositions in the 1990s.
One of the finest glovemen in cricket history, Alan Knott combined acrobatic wicketkeeping with vital lower-order batting during England’s 1970s successes.
35. George Lohmann (1886–1896, Surrey) — 79 Points
Role: Bowler
One of the deadliest seam bowlers in cricket history, George Lohmann dominated with relentless accuracy and unrivaled averages during the late 19th century.
Matches: 18 (Tests), 204 (FC)
Wickets: 112 (Tests), 1,841 (FC)
5-Wicket Hauls:9 (Tests), 152 (FC)
Captained England? ✅ (captained England twice)
100 Tests? ❌
Notable Achievements: Fastest to 100 Test wickets (in just 16 matches), lowest career Test bowling average (10.75), was a menace to the batters throughout the 1890s, 1889 Wisden Cricketer
34. Harold Larwood (1926–1933, Nottinghamshire) — 79 Points
Role: Right-arm fast bowler
The fearsome spearhead of the Bodyline series, Harold Larwood terrorized batsmen with raw pace and precision during one of the most controversial but impactful eras in cricket history.
33. Brian Statham (1951–1965, Lancashire) — 80 Points
Role: Right-arm fast bowler
The silent assassin of England’s pace attack, Brian Statham combined relentless accuracy with remarkable sportsmanship, becoming one of England’s most respected seamers.
30. Ray Illingworth (1958–1973, Yorkshire & Leicestershire) — 80 Points
Role: Right-arm Off-Spinner and Middle-Order Batter
One of England’s most influential captains, Illingworth combined sharp tactical acumen with steady all-round performances, leading England to a dominant era in the early 1970s.
Matches: 61 (Tests), 787 (FC)
Runs: 1836 (Tests), 24134 (FC)
Wickets: 122 (Tests), 2072 (FC)
Hundreds: 2 (Tests), 23 (FC)
Five-fors: 3 (Tests), 152 (FC)
World Cup Winner? ❌
Captained England? ✅ (Captain in 31 Tests, led famous 1970–71 Ashes series victory)
100 Tests? ❌
Notable Achievements: Wisden Cricketer (1960), Captained England to an unbeaten 27-Test run including winning the Ashes 1970–71 in Australia; contributed consistently with both bat and ball during his tenure; remembered as one of England’s most tactical and resilient leaders.
29. Bob Willis (1971–1984, Surrey & Warwickshire) — 80 Points
Role: Fast Bowler
A tireless and intimidating presence, Bob Willis spearheaded England’s attack with heart and pace, famously leading them to Ashes glory in 1981 with 29 wickets in the series.
Matches: 90 (Tests), 64 (ODIs)
Wickets: 325 (Tests), 80 (ODIs)
5-fers: 16 (Tests)
Player of Match Awards: 2
Player of Series Awards: 0
World Cup Winner? ❌
Captained England? ✅
100 Tests? ❌
Notable Achievements: Iconic 8/43 at Headingley 1981, over 300 Test wickets, vice-captain in pivotal Ashes moments, Wisden Cricketer (1978)
One of England’s most versatile and dynamic players, Jonny Bairstow has delivered match-winning performances across formats, redefining England’s aggressive batting identity.
Notable Achievements: Member of 2019 World Cup winning team, key figure in Bazball era, multiple match-winning innings in ICC tournaments. 2016 Wisden Cricketer, Member of 2018 ODI ICC Team of the Year & Test Team of the Year (2016, 2022)
24. Sir Andrew Strauss (2004–2012, Middlesex) — 82 Points
Role: Left Handed Opening Batter
A tactically sharp captain and solid opener, Andrew Strauss was central to England’s 2005 and 2010–11 Ashes triumphs.
Matches: 127 (ODIs), 100 (Tests)
Runs: 4205 (ODIs), 7037 (Tests)
Hundreds: 6 (ODIs), 21 (Tests)
Player of Match Awards: 9
Player of Series Awards: 8
World Cup Winner? ❌
Captained England? ✅
100 Tests?
Notable Achievements: Captained England to No. 1 Test ranking, captained Ashes victory in Australia (2010–11), 8 Player of the Series Awards, Wisden Cricketer (2005), Member of the 2009 ICC Test Team of the Year
22. Andrew Flintoff (1998–2009, Lancashire) — 84 Points
Role: Fast Bowling All Rounder
An explosive all-rounder, Andrew Flintoff captured the imagination of a generation with his power hitting, fiery pace, and larger-than-life charisma.Hope he recovers well from the horrific accident.
Matches: 141 (ODIs), 79 (Tests), 7 (T20Is)
Runs: 3394 (ODIs), 3845 (Tests), 76 (T20Is)
Hundreds: 3 (ODIs), 5 (Tests)
Wickets: 169 (ODIs), 226 (Tests), 5 (T20Is)
5-fers: 2 (ODIs), 3 (Tests)
Player of Match Awards: 20
Player of Series Awards: 7
World Cup Winner? ❌
Captained England? ✅
100 Tests? ❌
Notable Achievements: Player of the Series in 2005 Ashes, pivotal in England’s Test and ODI resurgence, 2004 Wisden Cricketer, ICC Cricketer of the Year (2005), ODI Cricketer of the Year (2004), Member of Test Team of the Year (2005-06), ODI Team of the Year (2004-06)
An adaptable and fiercely competitive cricketer, Alec Stewart’s flexibility across roles made him a cornerstone of England’s batting and leadership for over a decade.
A paragon of classical technique and gentlemanly spirit, Colin Cowdrey was the first cricketer to play 100 Tests and a bedrock of England’s batting for two decades.
Matches: 114 (Tests)
Runs: 7624
Hundreds: 22
Batsman of Match Awards: 1
Player of Series Awards: 0
World Cup Winner? ❌
Captained England? ✅
100 Tests? ✅
Notable Achievements: First player to reach 100 Tests, key architect of Ashes battles in the 50s and 60s, Wisden Cricketer (1956)
Notable Achievements: 2019 World Cup winner (key Super Over & keeping contribution), 2022 T20 World Cup winning captain, revolutionized England’s white-ball batting, Wisden Cricketer (2019). Member of ICC ODI Team of the Year (2016, 2018-19) & T20I Team of the Year (2021-22). Highest run scorer for England in the 2022 T20 World Cup.
One of England’s most graceful cricketers, Frank Woolley dazzled as a flowing batsman, brilliant fielder, and reliable bowler over a staggering career.
Matches: 64 (Tests)
Runs: 3283
Hundreds: 5
Wickets: 83
5-fer: 4
Captained England? ❌
100 Tests? ❌
Notable Achievements: 58959 Runs with 145 tons in FC cricket and 2066 wickets. Third Longest Career, Wisden Cricketer (1911)
15. Fred Trueman (1952–1965, Yorkshire) — 86 Points
Role: Right Arm Fast Bowler
“Fiery Fred” was England’s ultimate fast bowling force, revered for his aggression, consistency, and trailblazing wicket-taking.
Matches: 67 (Tests)
Wickets: 307
5-fers: 17
Captained England? ❌
100 Tests? ❌
Notable Achievements: First bowler to 300 Test wickets, dominant against top opposition, iconic figure of post-war English cricket, Wisden Cricketer (1953)
Role: Left-arm orthodox spinner, later opening batter
A timeless cricketing giant, Wilfred Rhodes starred as a bowler, batter, and all-rounder across one of the longest careers in cricket history.
Matches: 58 (Tests)
Runs: 2325
Hundreds: 2
Average: 26.96 (Bowling), 30.19 (Batting)
Wickets: 127
5-fers: 6
Captained England? ✅ (once)
100 Tests? ❌
Notable Achievements: Longest Test Career (30 years 315 days). Over 4,000 first-class wickets, opened both batting and bowling for England, Wisden Cricketer (1899)
Career Stats (20)
Match-Winning (20)
Big Stage Impact (20)
Longevity (15)
Versatility (10)
Accolades (10)
Leadership (5)
Era Bonus (5)
Fielding Bonus (3)
100-Test Bonus (2)
Total
15
15
16
15
8
8
3
5
2
0
87
Notable Achievements: Exceptional Test average for his era, key contributor to many Ashes triumphs, famed for adaptability under pressure
13. Stuart Broad (2007–2023, Nottinghamshire) — 87 Points
Role: Right Arm Pace/Left Arm Batter
Tall, aggressive, and unrelenting, Stuart Broad was the ultimate Ashes warrior and a relentless match-winner for England for over 15 years.Those Spells.
Matches: 167 (Tests), 121 (ODIs), 56 (T20Is)
Wickets: 604 (Tests), 178 (ODIs), 65 (T20Is)
5-fers: 20 (Tests), 1 (ODIs)
Runs: 3662 (Tests), 529 (ODIs), 118 (T20Is)
Hundreds: 1 (Test)
Player of Match Awards: 14
Player of Series Awards: 3
World Cup Winner? ✅
Captained England? ✅ (T20I captain and briefly Test captain)
100 Tests? ✅
Notable Achievements: Second-most wickets for England, Ashes hero (2015, 2019), devastating spells including 8/15 against Australia, Wisden Cricketer (2010), Selected in Test Team of the Decade, Selected as member of ICC Test Team of the Year (2009, 2011, 2012, 2014, 2015, 2023)
12. Herbert Sutcliffe (1924–1935, Yorkshire) — 88 Points
Role: Right-hand opening batter
A master of technique under pressure, Herbert Sutcliffe forged one of the most formidable opening partnerships and dominated tough batting conditions.
Matches: 54 (Tests)
Runs: 4555
Hundreds: 16, Batting: 60.73 Average
Captained England? ❌
100 Tests? ❌
Notable Achievements: Only player to score 16+ centuries with a 60+ Test average. Formed key opening partnership with Jack Hobbs, Wisden Cricketer (1920)
11. Sydney Barnes (1901–1914, Staffordshire) — 89 Points
Role: Right Arm Fast Bowler
A revolutionary, Sydney Barnes blended pace, swing, and seam to become arguably the most unplayable bowler of his time.Consider the greatest fast bowler of the twentieth century.
Matches: 27 (Tests)
Wickets: 189
5-fers: 24
Captained England? ❌
100 Tests? ❌
Notable Achievements: Record 189 wickets in just 27 Tests, regarded by contemporaries as the finest bowler in history, Wisden Cricketer (1910)
Career Stats (20)
Match-Winning (20)
Big Stage Impact (20)
Longevity (15)
Versatility (10)
Accolades (10)
Leadership (5)
Era Bonus (5)
Fielding Bonus (3)
100-Test Bonus (2)
Total
18
19
17
13
7
8
2
5
0
0
89
Top 10: The Titans of English Cricket
The absolute legends. Players who did not just succeed, they transformed the game for England for generations to come.
Role: Right-handed middle order batter, Part-Time Off Spin
A fearless maverick, Kevin Pietersen’s flamboyant strokeplay and game-changing innings lit up all formats for England. Possibly England’s greatest matchwinner.
Matches: 136 (ODIs), 104 (Tests), 37 (T20Is)
Runs: 4440 (ODIs), 8181 (Tests), 1176 (T20Is)
Hundreds: 9 (ODIs), 23 (Tests)
Wickets: 7 (ODIs), 10 (Tests), 1 (T20Is)
Player of Match Awards: 26
Player of Series Awards: 5
World Cup Winner? ✅
Captained England? ✅
100 Tests? ✅
Notable Achievements: 2005 Ashes hero, key performer in England’s 2010 T20 World Cup triumph, known for audacious stroke innovation. Member of ICC Test Team of the Year (2007-08), ODI Cricketer of the Year(2005, 06, 09), Wisden Cricketer (2006), ICC Emerging Player of the Year (2005), Player of the Tournament (2010 T20 WC), ICC ODI Cricketer of the Year (2005)
Role: Top Order Batter, Part-Time Right Arm Medium Pace
One of England’s most prolific run-scorers, Graham Gooch combined physical fitness and mental toughness to dominate bowling attacks for two decades. Took England to the 1992 ODI World Cup Final.
Notable Achievements: Wisden Cricketer of the Year (1980), Epic 333 against India, England’s leading scorer for years, captained England to a World Cup final (1992). 44,846 FC runs, 22,211 List A Runs.
Notable Achievements: England’s highest Test run-getter, captained England to series wins in India and Ashes triumphs, First England Batter to score 10,000 Test Runs, Wisden Cricketer (2012), ICC Test Cricketer of the Year (2011). Selected in ICC Test Team of the Decade. Member of ICC Test Team of the Year (2011-13, 2015 & 16).
The “Master,” Sir Jack Hobbs was a complete cricketer, blending unmatched technique, patience, and grace to dominate both Tests and first-class cricket.
Matches: 61 (Tests)
Runs: 5410
Hundreds: 15, Average: 56.94
World Cup Winner? ❌
Captained England? ✅
100 Tests? ❌
Notable Achievements: Wisden Cricketer of the Year twice (1909, 1926), Oldest batter to score a hundred (46 years, 82 days). Over 61,000 first-class runs (record), most centuries across all formats at retirement
5. Sir James ‘Jimmy’ Anderson (2003–Present, Lancashire) — 92 Points
Role: Right Arm Swing Pacer
The master of swing, Sir James Anderson redefined fast bowling longevity, precision, and skill well into his 40s. 704 Test wickets by a pacer, will never be overtaken I reckon.
Matches: 194 (ODIs), 188 (Tests), 19 (T20Is)
Wickets: 269 (ODIs), 704 (Tests), 18 (T20Is)
5-fers: 2 (ODIs), 32 (Tests)
Player of Match Awards: 13
Player of Series Awards: 5
World Cup Winner? ✅
Captained England? ❌
100 Tests? ✅
Notable Achievements: Highest wicket-taker among pace bowlers in history, 100+ Ashes wickets, backbone of England’s Test success for two decades, Wisden Cricketer (2009), Selected in Test Team of the Decade, Member of ICC Team of the Year (2010, 2011, 2013, 2017, 2022)
An elegant powerhouse, Wally Hammond combined stylish strokeplay with brute force and athleticism to dominate interwar cricket.
According to Wisden Cricketer’s Almanack, “the judgment of cricket history is that the greatest batsmen of the game has known are – in order of appearance, only – WG Grace, Jack Hobbs, Walter Hammond, and Don Bradman. Others may come close indeed to those four but do not quite take place with them.”
Matches: 85 (Tests)
Runs: 7249
Hundreds: 22, Average: 58.45
Wickets: 83
5-fers: 2
Captained England? ✅
100 Tests? ❌
Notable Achievements: 1928 Wisden Cricketer, Former highest Test run-scorer, prolific century maker, England captain, famed for batting records and slip fielding. Best of 336* in Tests, scored 50,551 FC runs along with 167 hundreds.
Role: All-Rounder (Left Hand Batter, Right Arm Medium Pace), Captain
A once-in-a-generation match-winner, Ben Stokes’ fierce spirit, iconic innings, and leadership have etched him into English cricket folklore.He can take superhuman catches, win World Cup finals and Ashes out of thin air, and can bowl 140 kph+ as well.
Matches: 114 (ODIs), 110 (Tests), 43 (T20Is)
Runs: 3463 (ODIs), 6719 (Tests), 585 (T20Is)
Hundreds: 5 (ODIs), 13 (Tests)
Wickets: 74 (ODIs), 210 (Tests), 26 (T20Is)
5-fers: 1 (ODIs), 4 (Tests)
Player of Match Awards: 19
Player of Series Awards: 5
World Cup Winner? ✅✅
Captained England? ✅
100 Tests? ✅
Notable Achievements: 2019 ICC Cricketer of the Year, 2022 ICC Test Cricketer of the Year, 2016 Wisden Cricketer, Selected in Test Team of the Decade. Member of ICC Test Team of the Year (2016, 17, 19, 22) & ODI Team of the Year (2017-19). Hero of the 2019 World Cup Final, 2022 T20 World Cup winner, Ashes miracle at Headingley 2019, current Test captain. Also, see Bazball.
Role: All-Rounder (Right Harm Batter/Right Arm Medium Pace)
Matches: 116 (ODIs), 102 (Tests)
Runs: 2113 (ODIs), 5200 (Tests)
Hundreds: 14 (Tests)
Wickets: 145 (ODIs), 383 (Tests)
5-fers: 27 (Tests)
Player of Match Awards: 19
Player of Series Awards: 4
World Cup Winner? ❌
Captained England? ✅
100 Tests? ✅
Notable Achievements: 1981 “Botham’s Ashes,” legendary performances with both bat and ball, England’s greatest match-winner for a decade, 1978 Wisden Cricketer
The calm in England’s chaos for over a decade, Joe Root piled on runs with grace and grit, becoming the heartbeat of the Test side and one of the most dependable batters the country has ever seen.He went from a consistent contributor to an all-time great post-2021.
Notable Achievements: Fifth-highest run-scorer in Test history, Player of the Series in 2019 Ashes, key contributor to England’s white-ball and Test success, Wisden Cricketer of the Year 2014, ICC Test Cricketer of the Year 2021. Member of ICC Test team of the Year (2014-16, 2021, 2023-24) & ODI Team of the Year (2018).
Ranking the greatest English cricketers across eras is both a celebration and a challenge. How do you weigh Sydney Barnes’ domination against Jimmy Anderson’s longevity? Or Jack Hobbs’ legacy against Joe Root’s modern mastery? Should WG Grace have been ranked much higher?
Every player on this list left an undeniable mark on England’s cricketing story — and shaped how the game is remembered today.
Together, they told the story of English cricket in all its triumphs and trials.
Who are your top English cricketers of all time? Which moments or players would make your personal list? Share your thoughts and memories in the comments — we’d love to hear your takes on the legends who shaped the game.
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Most Prolific England Cricketers: Statistical Overview
Which England Cricketer Has taken the Most Wickets?
We first look at the top 10 wicket-takers across formats. Also listed below are the top few wicket-takers in each format for England.
Test: Jimmy Anderson (704), Stuart Broad (604), Ian Botham (383), Bob Willis (325), Fred Trueman (307), Derek Underwood (297), Graeme Swann (255), Brian Statham (252)
ODI: Jimmy Anderson (269), Darren Gough (234), Adil Rashid (207)
T20I: Adil Rashid (131), Chris Jordan (108), Stuart Broad (65), Mark Wood (54), Sam Curran (54), Graeme Swann (51), David Willey (51), Moeen Ali (51)
Top 10 Most Wickets by England Bowlers Across Formats
Player
Wickets
Jimmy Anderson
991
Stuart Broad
847
Ian Botham
528
Darren Gough
466
Graeme Swann
410
Bob Willis
405
Adil Rashid
398
Andrew Flintoff
392
Chris Woakes
385
Moeen Ali
366
Which England Cricketer Has Scored the Most Runs?
We first look at the top 10 run scorer across formats.
Test: Joe Root (12972), Alastair Cook (12472), Graham Gooch (8900), Alec Stewart (8463), David Gower (8231), Kevin Pietersen (8181), Geoffrey Boycott (8114), Michael Atherton (7728), Ian Bell (7727), Colin Cowdrey (7624), Wally Hammond (7249), Andrew Strauss (7037), Len Hutton (6971), Ken Barrington (6806), Graham Thorpe (6744), Ben Stokes (6719), Jonny Bairstow (6042)
ODI: Eoin Morgan (6957), Joe Root (6541), Ian Bell (5416), Paul Collingwood (5092), Jos Buttler (5074)
T20I: Jos Buttler (3535), Eoin Morgan (2458), Alex Hales (2074), Dawid Malan (1892), Jonny Bairstow (1671), Jason Roy (1522)
Top 10 Most Runs by England Batters Across Formats
Player
Runs
Joe Root
20406
Alastair Cook
15737
Kevin Pietersen
13779
Ian Bell
13331
Graham Gooch
13190
Alec Stewart
13140
Jonny Bairstow
11581
Jos Buttler
11516
David Gower
11401
Andrew Strauss
11315
Ben Stokes
10767
Marcus Trescothick
10326
Eoin Morgan
10115
England Cricket Records
Most Dismissals/Catches: Jos Buttler (503), Alec Stewart (451), Jonny Bairstow (361), Matt Prior (344), Joe Root (310), Alan Knott (285)
100 Test Club: Anderson (188), Broad (167), Cook (161), Root (152), Stewart (133), Bell (118), Gooch (118), Gower (117), Atherton (115), Cowdrey (114), Stokes (110), Boycott (108), Pietersen (104), Botham (102), Bairstow (100), Strauss (100), Thorpe (100)
Most Matches as Test Captain: Joe Root (64), Alastair Cook (59), Michael Atherton (54), Michael Vaughan (51), Andrew Strauss (50), Nasser Hussain (45), Peter May (41), Graham Gooch (34), David Gower (32), Ben Stokes (32), Mike Brearley (31), Ray Illingworth (31)
Most Matches as ODI Captain: Eoin Morgan (126), Alastair Cook (69), Andrew Strauss (62), Michael Vaughan (60), Nasser Hussain (56), Graham Gooch (50)
ICC Hall of Fame: Sydney Barnes, Ken Barrington, Ian Botham, Geoffrey Boycott, Denis Compton, Alastair Cook, Colin Cowdrey, Ted Dexter, Graham Gooch, David Gower, WG Grace, Tom Graveney, Wally Hammond, Jack Hobbs, Len Hutton, Alan Knott, Jim Laker, Harold Larwood, George Lohmann, Peter May, Wilfred Rhodes, Brian Statham, Herbert Sutcliffe, Fred Trueman, Derek Underwood, Bob Willis
