Top 51 Greatest South African Cricketers of All-Time (Updated 2024) | List of the Best South African Cricket Players (A Complete Guide)

by Nitesh Mathur | Feb 17, 2024 | Article Index, South African Cricket, World XIs - With Twists

Who are the greatest South African cricketers of all-time?

With the passing of Mike Procter, the Proteas family lost another legend. Today we explore the list of greatest cricketers this African nation has produced.

Let’s dive right in.

Key Takeaways

• Jacques Kallis, Dale Steyn, AB De Villiers, Graeme Pollock, Barry Richards, Graeme Smith, Hashim Amla, Mike Procter, and Allan Donald have been judged as the Top 10 South African Cricketers of All-Time.
• We included several players whose careers coincided with South African’s international isolation due to apartheid (1970-1990), namely Graeme Pollock, Barry Richards, Mike Procter, Clive Rice, Eddie Barlow, Jimmy Cook, Kepler Wessels, Peter Kirsten, David Richardson, Garth le Roux, Ken McEwan and Vintcent van der Bijl.

Table of Contents

• Most Prolific Proteas by the Numbers
• List of Top 51 Greatest South African Cricketers
• The Top 25: Absolute Greats
• The Top 10: Undisputed Legends
• Honorable Mentions and List of Players who were considered
• Final Thoughts
• Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

By the Numbers: The Most Prolific South African Cricketers

Some of the criteria we used to compile this list includes: Most Wickets/Runs in International Cricket*, international caps, ICC Hall of Fame status, World Cup performances, captaincy record, fielding & keeping record, anecdotes (especially for players in the early twentieth century), and match winning performances.

*We considered also considered first class stats for the pre-1990s eras.

Top 10 Most Wickets by South African Bowlers Across Formats: Which South African 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 South Africa.

• Test: Dale Steyn (439), Shaun Pollock (421), Makhaya Ntini (390), Allan Donald (330), Morne Morkel (309)
• ODI: Shaun Pollock (387), Alland Donald (272), Jacques Kallis (269), Makhaya Ntini (265), Dale Steyn (194)
• T20I: Tabriz Shamsi (78), Dale Steyn (64), Imran Tahir (61), Lungi Ngidi (60), Wayne Parnell (59)

*Does not include wickets taken for World XI teams

Top 10 Most Runs by South African Batters Across Formats: Which South African Cricketer Has Scored the Most Runs?

We now move on to the batting side of things.

• Test: Jacques Kallis (13206), Hashim Amla (9282), Graeme Smith (9253), AB de Villiers (8765), Gary Kirsten (7289)
• ODI: Jacques Kallis (11550), AB de Villiers (9427), Hashim Amla (8113), Herschelle Gibbs (8094), Graeme Smith (6989)
• T20I: Quinton de Kock (2277), David Miller (2227), JP Duminy (1934)

Other South African Records

Here are some other stats that will help us give us a complete picture.

• Most Dismissals/Catches Combined: Mark Boucher (988), Quinton de Kock (550), AB de Villiers (475), Jacques Kallis (334), David Richardson (317)
• The 100-Test Club: Jacques Kallis (165), Mark Boucher (146), Hashim Amla (124), Graeme Smith (116), AB de Villiers (114), Shaun Pollock (108), Gary Kirsten (101), Makhaya Ntini (101)
• Most Matches as Test Captain: Graeme Smith (108), Hansie Cronje (53), Faf du Plessis (36), Shaun Pollock (26), Dean Elgar (18)
• Most Matches as ODI Captain: Graeme Smith (149), Hansie Cronje (138), AB de Villiers (103), Shaun Pollock (92), Kepler Wessels (52)
• List of South African Players in the ICC Hall of Fame: Allan Donald, Aubrey Faulkner, Jacques Kallis, Graeme Pollock, Shaun Pollock, Barry Richards

Also Read:

• Quota System in South African Cricket and Transformation Policy – The Complete Guide
• 62 South African Born Cricketers Who Play for Other Countries: Can You Guess Them All?
• 49 South African Cricketers Who Left Their Country for Kolpak Deals
• 85 Cricketers Who Left Their Countries and Moved to Play Cricket in the USA: List of American Cricketers Who Were Born in Other Nations

Top 51 Greatest South African Cricketers of All-Time (Ranked)

Without further ado, here is the complete list of the 50 greatest South African cricketers of all-time. Enjoy!

Note: Basil D’Oliveira is not considered since he played international cricket for England. He was born in South Africa and moved to England in 1966.

51. Colin Bland (1961-1966)

• Role: Batter
• Matches: 21 (Test), 131 (FC)
• Runs: 1669 (Test), 7249 (FC)
• Hundreds: 3 (Test), 13 (FC)
• Catches: 10 (Test), 51 (FC)

Colin Bland revolutionized fielding with unmatched athleticism and set an example for future Protea teams. According to ESPNCricinfo, “Colin Bland will go down in cricket history as one of the greatest cover fielders.” With such greatness, I had to put him in this list.

50. JP Duminy (2004-2019)

• Role: All-Rounder (Left Handed Batter, Right Arm Off Spinner)
• Matches: 46 (Test), 199 (ODI), 81 (T20I)
• Runs: 2103 (Test), 5117 (ODI), 1934 (T20I)
• Hundreds: 6 (Test), 4 (ODI)
• Wickets: 42 (Test), 69 (ODI)

JP Duminy specialized in playing cameos in pressure situations down the order. Played a key part in the monumental 414 chase against Australia at Perth in the 4th innings, stitching a 111-run partnership with AB de Villiers.kepp

49. Fanie de Villiers (1992-1998)

• Role: Fast Bowler
• Matches: 18 (Test), 83 (ODI)
• Wickets: 85 (Test), 95 (ODI)
• 5-fers: 5 (Test)

Fanie de Villiers, a force to be reckoned with in South African cricket during the 1990s, claimed 85 Test scalps and 121 ODI dismissals with his precise bowling

48. Jock Cameron (1927-1935)

• Role: Wicketkeeper Batter
• Matches: 26 (Test), 107 (FC)
• Runs: 1239 (Test), 5396 (FC)
• Hundreds: 11 (FC)
• Dismissals: 51 (Test), 224 (FC)

Jock Cameron, a cricketing stalwart of the early 20th century, distinguished himself with his masterful wicketkeeping skills and gritty batting. Once in a 1929 County cricket match, he took six catches and also had one stumping.

47. Kepler Wessels (1982-1994)

• Role: Left Handed Batter
• Matches: 16 (Test), 55 (ODI)
• Runs: 1027 (Test), 1627 (ODI),
• Hundreds: 2 (Test)

Kepler Wessels, a true pioneer in South African cricket, won hearts with his gutsy batting, shrewd leadership, and the sheer joy he brought to the game, playing a key part in the nation’s cricketing resurgence while charming fans with his infectious spirit and love for the sport. Played for both Australia and South Africa.

*Only South African statistics shown. Overall, he played 40 Tests & 109 ODIs.

46. Jonny Waite (1951-1965)

• Role: Wicketkeeper Batter
• Matches: 50 (Test), 199 (FC)
• Runs: 2405 (Test), 9812 (FC)
• Hundreds: 4 (Test), 23 (FC)
• Dismissals: 141 (Test), 511 (FC)

First South African to play 50 Tests. A constant force behind the stumps much like Boucher in the 2000s. Holds the South African record for joint most dismissals (26) in a 5-Test series.

45. David Richardson (1991-1998)

• Role: Wicketkeeper Batter
• Matches: 42 (Test), 122 (ODI)
• Runs: 1359 (Test), 868 (ODI)
• Hundreds: 1 (Test)
• Dismissals: 152 (Test), 165 (ODI)

Now known for his administrative positions in the ICC, Richardson was earlier South Africa’s keeper post the isolation period. Solid keeper.

44. Jackie McGlew (1951-1962)

• Role: Batter
• Matches: 34 (Test), 190 (FC)
• Runs: 2440 (Test), 12170 (FC)
• Hundreds: 7 (Test), 27 (FC)

One of the most classical batters in South African history, producing some of the slowest innings of all-time. Noted for carrying the bat and batting for nine hours for a 105 against Australia.

43. David Miller (2010-)

• Role: Left Handed Batter
• Matches: 173 (ODI), 116 (T20I)
• Runs: 4458 (ODI), 2268 (T20I)
• Hundreds: 6 (ODI), 2 (T20I)

A specialist limited over batter, Miller will go down as perhaps the greatest #6 ODI batter of all-time along with Michael Bevan, Jos Buttler, and MS Dhoni.

At #6, Miller scored 2718 runs, 3 centuries, and twenty 50+ scores at an average of 40.56 & 104.78 SR. When in form, Killer Miller is just a sight to watch.

*He might rise up the list by the end of his career.

42. Jonty Rhodes (1992-2003)

• Role: Batter
• Matches: 52 (Test), 245 (ODI)
• Runs: 2532 (Test), 5935 (ODI)
• Hundreds: 3 (Test), 2 (ODI)
• Catches: 34 (Test), 105 (ODI)

Not many people can boast that they changed their field of expertise. Jonty Rhodes definitely did. With his iconic diving catches and flying run outs, he captured audiences worldwide.

Also Read: Top 32 Best Fielders in Cricket History: Jonty Rhodes, Paul Collingwood…Can You Guess The Rest?

41. Daryll Cullinan (1993-2001)

• Role: Batter
• Matches: 70 (Test), 138 (ODI)
• Runs: 4554 (Test), 3860 (ODI)
• Hundreds: 14 (Test), 3 (ODI)

Daryll Cullinan, renowned for his elegant batting, showcased his prowess in memorable matches like his 275 against New Zealand in 1999, and his crucial knocks against Sri Lanka and England, solidifying his reputation as a key figure in South African cricket during the 90s.

40. Vintcent van der Bijl (1967-1983)

• Role: Fast Bowler
• Matches: 156 (FC), 92 (List A)
• Wickets: 767 (FC), 132 (List A)
• 5-fers: 46 (FC), 4 (List A)

Held the record for most wickets in a South Africa’s domestic season (65) at that time. Played his entire career in South Africa’s isolation.

39. Brian McMillan (1991-1998)

• Role: All-Rounder
• Matches: 38 (Test), 78 (ODI)
• Runs: 1968 (Test), 841 (ODI)
• Hundreds: 3 (Test), 1 (ODI)
• Wickets: 75 (Test), 70 (ODI)

Brian McMillan, a key figure in South African cricket during the 1990s, played pivotal roles in memorable matches such as the 1992 World Cup and the historic readmission series, showcasing his all-round skills with both bat and ball

38. Garth Le Roux (1975-1989)

• Role: Bowling All-Rounder
• Matches: 239 (FC), 250 (List A)
• Runs: 5425 (FC), 3151 (List A)
• Wickets: 838 (FC), 378 (List A)
• 5-fers: 35 (FC), 5 (list A)

Garth le Roux, a fearsome fast bowler, struck fear into batsmen with his raw pace and hostile deliveries, making him a formidable force in South African cricket during the 1980s, and leaving a lasting impact with his aggressive bowling style and crucial wicket-taking ability.

*His entire career was during South Africa’s isolation

37. Herbie Taylor (1912-1932)

• Role: Batter
• Matches: 42 (Test), 206 (FC)
• Runs: 2936 (Test), 13105 (FC)
• Hundreds: 7 (Test), 30 (FC)

Herbie Taylor, a cricketing legend of the early 20th century, was celebrated for his elegant batting style and astute captaincy, leading South Africa with distinction and leaving an enduring legacy as one of the country’s finest batsmen and leaders on the cricket field.

Also served in World War I.

36. Jimmy Sinclair (1896-1911)

• Role: All-Rounder
• Matches: 25 (Test), 129 (FC)
• Runs: 1069 (Test), 4483 (FC)
• Hundreds: 3 (Test), 6 (FC)
• Wickets: 63 (Test), 491 (FC)
• 5-fers: 1 (Test), 33 (FC)

Jimmy Sinclair, a cricketing pioneer of the late 19th and early 20th centuries, captivated audiences with his exceptional batting and laid the foundation for South African cricket’s rich heritage.

One of South Africa’s earliest cricket legends.

35. Dean Elgar (2012-2024)

• Role: Left Handed Batter
• Matches: 86 (Test), 8 (ODI)
• Runs: 5347 (Test), 104 (ODI)
• Hundreds: 14 (Test)

One of the premier left handed batters of the 2010s, Elgar’s leadership ensured that South Africa had one world class senior batter during their transition period. One word comes to mind when watching Elgar bat, tenacity. Ready to take body blows and challenge the world.

34. Vernon Philander (2007-2020)

• Role: Fast Bowling All-Rounder
• Matches: 64 (Test), 30 (ODI), 7 (T20I)
• Wickets: 224 (Test), 41 (ODI), 4 (T20I)
• 5-fers: 13 (Test)

Vernon Philander gave the South African bowling an edge like never before. They have always had pace, seam, and bounce. Philander’s ability to swing it both ways was exactly what the Proteas needed to complement Steyn & Morkel.

33. Trevor Goddard (1955-1970)

• Role: All-Rounder (Left Handed Batter, Left Arm Medium Pacer)
• Matches: 41 (Test), 179 (FC)
• Runs: 2516 (Test), 11289 (FC)
• Hundreds: 1 (Test), 26 (FC)
• Wickets: 123 (Test), 534 (FC)
• 5-fers: 5 (Test), 24 (FC)

Trevor Goddard, a cricketing stalwart of the 1950s and 1960s, was a formidable all-rounder celebrated for his left-arm spin bowling and solid batting, playing a pivotal role in South African cricket history with his match-winning contributions and leadership on the field, earning him a revered status among fans and peers alike.

32. Peter Kirsten (1973-1997)

• Role: Batter
• Matches: 12 (Test), 40 (ODI), 327 (FC), 358 (List A)
• Runs: 626 (Test), 1293 (ODI), 22635 (FC), 11403 (List A)
• Hundreds: 1 (Test), 57 (FC), 10 (List A)

Played international a few years past his prime due to international isolation. 22,635 first class runs is a testament to his talent.

*played 12 Tests and 40 ODIs from 1991-1994

31. Ken McEwan (1972-1992)

• Role: Wicketkeeper Batter
• Matches: 428 (FC), 409 (List A)
• Runs: 26628 (FC), 11866 (List A)
• Hundreds: 74 (FC), 16 (List A)
• Dismissals: 366 (FC), 142 (List A)

30. Neil Adcock (1953-1962)

• Role: Fast Bowler
• Matches: 26 (Test), 99 (FC)
• Wickets: 104 (Test), 405 (FC)
• 5-fers: 5 (Test), 19 (FC)

First South African fast bowler to 100 test wickets. One of the early greats of South African proud fast bowling history.

29. Faf du Plessis (2011-)

• Role: Batter
• Matches: 69 (Test), 143 (ODI), 50 (T20I)
• Runs: 4163 (Test), 5507 (ODI), 1528 (T20I)
• Hundreds: 10 (Test), 12 (ODI), 1 (T20I)

A late entrant on the international stage, he grabbed his opportunity with both hands. His epic at Adelaide, blockathon at Delhi, and captaincy towards the end of his career, was the highlight of his career. Still plies his trade around the world after re-inventing himself as a swashbuckling T20 opener.

Also Read: Faf du Plessis & AB De Villiers’ Friendship: Broken Dreams of Faf and ABD

28. Bruce Mitchell (1929-1949)

• Role: Batter/Leg Spinner
• Matches: 42 (Test), 173 (FC)
• Runs: 3471 (Test), 11395 (FC)
• Hundreds: 8 (Test), 30 (FC)

Bruce Mitchell, a luminary of South African cricket during the 1930s and 1940s, captivated audiences with his elegant stroke play and strategic brilliance, amassing over 3,000 Test runs at an impressive average of 48.88.

27. Imran Tahir (2011-2019)

• Role: Leg Spinner
• Matches: 20 (Test), 107 (ODI), 38 (T20I), 404 (T20)
• Wickets: 57 (Test), 173 (ODI), 63 (T20I), 502 (T20)
• 5-fers: 2 (Test), 3 (ODI), 2 (T20I), 4 (T20)

If you search hard enough, Imran Tahir is probably still playing somewhere around the world and running around the ground with his infectious celebration. Completed South Africa’s bowling attack in the 2010s. One of the greatest spinners to play for South Africa and definitely the greatest leg spinner.

26. Jimmy Cook (1972-1995)

• Role: Batter
• Matches: 3 (Test), 4 (ODI), 270 (FC), 286 (List A)
• Runs: 107 (Test), 67 (ODI), 21143 (FC), 10639 (List A)
• Hundreds: 64 (FC), 24 (ODI)

Jimmy Cook, a stalwart of South African cricket during the apartheid era, demonstrated exceptional resilience and skill, dominating domestic cricket with his prolific run-scoring and earning widespread admiration despite being denied international opportunities due to the country’s sporting isolation.

*played 3 Tests and 4 ODIs between 1991-1993.

Top 25 Greatest South African Cricketers of All-Time: Absolute Greats

We are halfway there…

25. Quinton de Kock (2012-)

• Role: Wicketkeeper Batter
• Matches: 54 (Test), 155 (ODI), 80 (T20I)
• Runs: 3300 (Test), 6770 (ODI), 2277 (T20I)
• Hundreds: 6 (Test), 21 (ODI), 1 (T20I)
• Dismissals: 232 (Test), 226 (ODI), 92 (T20I)

A child prodigy that fulfilled his potential. After Graeme Smith retired, Quinton de Kock fit straight through. Even though his Test and ODI careers did not last as long as people would have wanted, he provided plenty of memories. He always got his best out against India and his swivel sixes is still one of the sweetest shots in cricket.

*may continue to rise up the list

24. Kagiso Rabada (2014-)

• Role: Fast Bowler
• Matches: 62 (Test), 101 (ODI), 56 (T20I)
• Wickets: 291 (Test), 157 (ODI), 58 (T20I)
• 5-fers: 14 (Test), 2 (ODI)

One of the top bowlers of the current era. Alongside Jasprit Bumrah, Rabada is a complete bowler across formats. If he stays fit, he has the potential to break Steyn’s record of 439 Test wickets.

*will most likely continue to rise up this list

23. Dudley Nourse (1935-1951)

• Role: Batter
• Matches: 34 (Test), 175 (FC)
• Runs: 2960 (Test), 12472 (FC)
• Hundreds: 9 (Test), 41 (FC)

Dudley Nourse, a cricketing legend of the mid-20th century, captivated audiences with his elegant batting style and remarkable consistency, leaving an enduring legacy as one of South Africa’s finest batsmen, whose contributions during the pre- and post-war era remain etched in cricketing folklore.

He served in the Middle East during the World War.

22. Peter Pollock (1961-1970)

• Role: Fast Bowler
• Matches: 28 (Test), 127 (FC)
• Wickets: 116 (Test), 485 (FC)
• 5-fers: 9 (Test), 27 (FC)

Peter Pollock, a pace bowling sensation of the 1960s and 1970s, showcased his fiery pace and lethal accuracy, leaving a lasting impact on South African cricket with his ability to dismantle batting lineups, epitomizing the spirit of aggression and skill on the field.

21. Hansie Cronje (1992-2000)

• Role: All-Rounder
• Matches: 68 (Test), 188 (ODI)
• Runs: 3714 (Test), 5565 (ODI)
• Hundreds: 6 (Test), 2 (ODI)
• Wickets: 43 (Test), 114 (ODI)
• 5-fers: 1 (ODI)

Charismatic batter. Even more charismatic captain. Legacy tarnished due to the match fixing scandal. Died too early.

Also Read: Netflix ‘Bad Sport’ Fallen Idol Review: Must Watch for All Cricket Fans – How Will History Judge Hansie Cronje?

20. Morne Morkel (2006-2008)

• Role: Fast Bowler
• Matches: 86 (Test), 117 (ODI), 44 (T20I)
• Wickets: 309 (Test), 188 (ODI), 47 (T20I)
• 5-fers: 8 (Test), 2 (ODI)

For every Michael Jordan, there is a Scottie Pippen. The height and constant line and length made him a threatening bowler. Combined with Steyn, the duo destroyed plenty of batting line ups around the world.

19. Eddie Barlow (1961-1970)

• Role: All-Rounder
• Matches: 30 (Test), 283 (FC)
• Runs: 2516 (Test), 18212 (FC)
• Hundreds: 6 (Test), 43 (FC)
• Wickets: 40 (Test), 571 (FC)
• 5-fers: 1 (Test), 16 (FC)

Eddie Barlow, the dynamic all-rounder of South Africa in the 1960s and 1970s, left an indelible mark with memorable performances like his 114 against Australia in 1966 and his vital contributions in the series against England in 1965

18. Gary Kirsten (1993-2004)

• Role: Left Handed Batter
• Matches: 101 (Test), 185 (ODI)
• Runs: 7289 (Test), 6798 (ODI)
• Hundreds: 21 (Test), 13 (ODI)

Gary Kirsten, a prolific batsman of the modern era, distinguished himself with his exceptional technique and unyielding determination, playing a pivotal role in South African cricket’s resurgence in the 1990s and early 2000s. He produced memorable performances such as his monumental 275 against England in 1999 and 188* in an ODI, solidifying his status as one of the nation’s cricketing icons.

Coached India to 2011 World Cup victory to further cement his name in history.

17. Makhaya Ntini (1998-2011)

• Role: Fast Bowler
• Matches: 101 (Test), 173 (ODI), 10 (T20I)
• Wickets: 390 (Test), 266 (ODI), 6 (T20I)
• 5-fers: 18 (Test), 8 (ODI)

Makhaya Ntini, a relentless fast bowler, broke barriers as the first black African cricketer to play for South Africa, leaving an indelible mark with his raw pace, fierce competitiveness, and memorable performances, inspiring a generation of young cricketers and symbolizing the transformation of South African cricket.

16. Aubrey Faulkner (1906-1924)

• Role: All-Rounder
• Matches: 25 (Test), 118 (FC)
• Runs: 1754 (Test), 6366 (FC)
• Hundreds: 4 (Test), 13 (FC)
• Wickets: 82 (Test), 449 (FC)
• 5-fers: 4 (Test), 33 (FC)

Aubrey Faulkner, a cricketing pioneer of the early 20th century, mesmerized audiences with his remarkable all-round abilities, excelling as a stylish batsman and a cunning spin bowler, leaving an enduring legacy as one of South Africa’s greatest cricketers and a trailblazer for generations to come.

15. Hugh Tayfield (1949-1960)

• Role: Off Spinner
• Matches: 37 (Test), 187 (FC)
• Wickets: 170 (Test), 864 (FC)
• 5-fers: 14 (Test), 67 (FC)

Hugh Tayfield, a spin bowling maestro of the 1950s, spun his way into cricketing history with his impeccable accuracy and cunning variations, amassing a record-breaking tally of wickets for South Africa and etching his name among the pantheon of cricketing legends.

14. Mark Boucher (1997-2012)

• Role: Wicketkeeper Batter
• Matches: 147 (Test), 295 (ODI), 25 (T20I)
• Runs: 5515 (Test), 4686 (ODI), 268 (T20I)
• Hundreds: 5 (Test), 1 (ODI)
• Dismissals: 555 (Test), 425 (ODI), 19 (T20I)

Mark Boucher is perhaps the most prominent figure behind the stumps in modern cricket. For 15 years, he almost played every match for the Proteas and was a constant force. He had moments with the bat as well such as sealing the 434 chase against Australia in 2006.

Also Read: Top 17 Greatest Wicketkeepers in Cricket History (Men’s): Which Keepers Have the Most Dismissals Across Formats?

13. Lance Klusener (1996-2004)

• Role: All-Rounder (Left Handed Batter/Right Handed Medium Pacer)
• Matches: 49 (Test), 171 (ODI)
• Runs: 1906 (Test), 3576 (ODI)
• Hundreds: 4 (Test), 2 (ODI)
• Wickets: 80 (Test), 192 (ODI)
• 5-fers: 1 (Test), 6 (ODI)

If you look purely from career stats, Klusener might not be able to compete with the rest of South Africa’s great all-rounders. However, his 1999 World Cup heroics pushes him up. This was the closest South Africa were to a World Cup win.

281 runs at 140.5 average and 122.17 SR to go along with his 17 wickets and 4 player of the match performances. Pioneered the finisher and power hitting role in ODI cricket.

12. Herschelle Gibbs (1996-2010)

• Role: Batter
• Matches: 90 (Test), 248 (ODI), 23 (T20I)
• Runs: 6167 (Test), 8094 (ODI), 400 (T20I)
• Hundreds: 14 (Test), 21 (ODI)

Herschelle Gibbs was quite the character. The dynamic between the strokemaker Gibbs & gritty Smith helped them become a strong partnership over the years. Gibbs had several moments of his own- The Six Sixes in the 2007 ODI World Cup, 175 in that iconic 434 chase, (oh yeah, and dropping Steve Waugh in the 1999 World Cup).

11. Clive Rice (1969-1994)

• Role: All-Rounder
• Matches: 3 (ODI), 482 (FC), 479 (List A)
• Runs: 26 (ODI), 26331 (FC), 13474 (List A)
• Hundreds: 48 (FC), 11 (List A)
• Wickets: 2 (ODI), 930 (FC), 517 (List A)
• 5-fers: 23 (FC), 6 (List A)

Clive Rice, a dominant force in South African cricket during the apartheid era, showcased exceptional leadership and all-round skills, symbolizing resilience and determination, and leaving a lasting legacy as a true cricketing icon.

*played 3 ODIs in 1991 at the age of 42

Top 10 Greatest South African Cricketers of All-Time: Undisputed Legends

Time for the Final 10!

10. Allan Donald (1991-2003)

• Role: Fast Bowler
• Matches: 72 (Test), 164 (ODI), 316 (FC)
• Wickets: 330 (Test), 272 (ODI), 1216 (FC)
• 5-fers: 20 (Test), 2 (ODI), 68 (FC)

Allan Donald took South African fast bowling to new heights. Handed off the baton to the likes of Shaun Pollock, Ntini, and provided a template for Steyn to follow. Action, pace, celebration, Donald had it all.

Also Read: Top 25 South African Fast Bowlers List (The Complete Guide) | Greatest South African Fast Bowlers of All Time (Updated 2024)

9. Mike Procter (1967-1970)

• Role: All-Rounder
• Matches: 7 (Test), 401 (FC), 271 (List A)
• Runs: 226 (Test), 21936 (FC), 6624 (List A)
• Wickets: 41 (Test), 1417 (FC), 344 (List A)
• 5-fers: 1 (Test), 70 (FC), 7 (List A)

According to ESPNCricinfo, Mike Procter was “probably one of the most natural talents the game has ever seen.” Set the tone for great right handed fast bowling all-rounders to come from this region of the world.

Also Read: Top 55 All-Rounders in Cricket History List (The Complete Guide) | Greatest All-Rounders of All Time (Updated 2023)

8. Hashim Amla (2004-2019)

• Role: Batter
• Matches: 124 (Test), 181 (ODI), 44 (T20I)
• Runs: 9282 (Test), 8113 (ODI), 1277 (T20I)
• Hundreds: 28 (Test), 27 (ODI)

One of the most elegant opening batters of all-time. He had all the ingredients—Time, Placement, Finesse. Fastest to 3000, 4000, 6000, and 7000 ODI runs.

7. Graeme Smith (2002-2014)

• Role: Left Handed Batter
• Matches: 117 (Test), 197 (ODI), 33 (T20I)
• Runs: 9265 (Test), 6989 (ODI), 982 (T20I)
• Hundreds: 27 (Test), 10 (ODI)

One of the greatest left-handed openers of all-time, certainly in the Top 3 of the 21st century. Not the prettiest stroke player, it was his grit, courage, and leadership that differentiated Smith from the rest. Playing with a broken hand, Smith earned the respect of the mighty Australians and the rest of the cricketing fraternity. His captaincy led South Africa to a new era after the match fixing crisis.

6. Barry Richards (1964-1982)

• Role: Batter
• Matches: 4 (Test), 339 (FC), 233 (List A)
• Runs: 508 (Test), 28358 (FC), 8506 (List A)
• Hundreds: 2 (Test), 80 (FC), 16 (List A)

A cricketing genius known for his sublime batting, international cricket missed out on one of the great talents. Played only 4 Tests but showed what he could do with 2 hundred, 2 fifties, and average of 72.57. Otherwise racked up 28358 runs with the best score of 356.

*played 4 Tests in 1970

Also Read: 155 Greatest Cricketers of All Time (Men’s): Who Is the King of Cricket? (Updated 2023)

5. Graeme Pollock (1963-1970)

• Role: Left Handed Batter
• Matches: 23 (Test), 262 (FC), 118 (List A)
• Runs: 2256 (Test), 20940 (FC), 4656 (List A)
• Hundreds: 7 (Test), 64 (FC), 12 (List A)

One of the most elegant left handers of his time, Graeme Pollock played the last of his 23 Tests at the age of 26. Scored a magnificent 274 in the same test as Richards’ 140. South Africa declared for 622/8 and won by an innings and 129 at Durban against Australia. Little did they know that this was their last international series.

4. Shaun Pollock (1995-2008)

• Role: All-Rounder
• Matches: 108 (Test), 303 (ODI), 12 (T20I)
• Runs: 3781 (Test), 3519 (ODI), 86 (T20I)
• Hundreds: 2 (Test), 1 (ODI)
• Wickets: 421 (Test), 393 (ODI), 15 (T20I)
• 5-fers: 16 (Test), 5 (ODI)

Opened the bowling for over a decade and built partnerships with Donald, Ntini, and later Steyn. Solid batter down the order as well and captained South Africa to the 1998 Commonwealth Gold, still one of the only victories to their name.

Also Read: 17 South Africa World Cup Chokes and Heartbreaks: The Complete List (Men’s & Women’s Combined)

3. AB De Villiers (2004-2018)

• Role: Batter/Wicket-Keeper
• Matches: 114 (Test), 228 (ODI), 78 (T20I)
• Runs: 8765 (Test), 9577 (ODI), 1672 (T20I)
• Hundreds: 22 (Test), 25 (ODI)

The most versatile batter of the modern age. He had the technical abilities to score 33 (220) and 43 (297) and the destructiveness to score the fastest hundred. One of the original stars of the IPL. Unfortunate to not lift a World Cup and retired from international cricket during his prime.

Also Read: Top 11 Cricketers Who Retired Too Early – The Lost Generation

2. Dale Steyn (2004-2020)

• Role: Fast Bowler
• Matches: 93 (Test), 125 (ODI), 47 (T20I)
• Wickets: 439 (Test), 196 (ODI), 64 (T20I)
• 5-fers: 26 (Test), 3 (ODI)

The most prolific South African Test fast bowler and arguably the best fast bowler of all-time. He had the perfect action, the rhythm, the speed, and that iconic celebration. The heart of the South African Test team that won around the world between 2008-2015. Freak injuries curtailed his career but his passion came through with multiple comeback attempts.

Also Read: Dale Steyn, The Embodiment of Simplicity and Intensity, Retires—The Greatest Fast Bowler of Them All

1. Jacques Kallis (1995-2014)

• Role: All-Rounder
• Matches: 166 (Test), 328 (ODI), 25 (T20I)
• Runs: 13289 (Test), 11579 (ODI), 666 (T20I)
• Hundreds: 45 (Test), 17 (ODI)
• Wickets: 292 (Test), 273 (ODI), 12 (T20I)

Simply the Greatest. Jacques Kallis is a name synonymous with consistency, hardwork, and discipline. His batting numbers themselves push him into legendary status but it was his fast bowling that provided South Africa the balance they needed.

Honorable Mentions: List of Players that were considered

Honorable Mentions: Ken McEwan, Albie Morkel, Paul Adams, Cyril Vincent, Anrich Nortje, Vincent van der Bilj, Herbert Taylor, Alan Courie, Basil D’Oliviera, Frank Roro, Eric Petersen, Hylton Ackerman Sr, Henry Fotheringham, Ken McEwan, Stephen Jefferies, Denys Hobson, Ray Jennings, Jock Cameron, Denis Lindsay, Dave Richardson, Jimmy Sinclair, Herbie Taylor, Jackie McGlew, Temba Bavuma, Neil McKenzie, Ashwell Prince, Chris Morris, Wayne Parnell, Charl Langeveldt, Keshav Maharaj, Andre Nel, David Richardson, Nicky Boje

Future Stars: Tristan Stubbs, Tabriz Shams, Lungi Ngidi, Heinrich Klaasen, Aiden Markram

Note: “Frank Roro is widely considered the first great black African cricketer” according to ESPNCricinfo although he did not play international cricket.

List of South African Players in World Cup Squads

One key aspect of picking South Africa’s greats was looking at their tournament history and squads.

South Africa won the 1998 Commonwealth Games, 1998 Champions Trophy, and the ICC Test Mace (2013-2015). They were also semi-finalists in the 1992, 1999, 2007, 2015, and 2023 ODI World Cups along with the 2009 & 2014 T20 World Cups.

Here are the complete squads of those tournaments (except for the Test mace).

1998 Champion Squads

• 1998 Champions Trophy: Hansie Cronje (C), Mark Boucher (WK), Dale Benkenstein, Nicky Boje, Derek Crookes, Daryll Cullinan, Alan Dawson, Steve Elworthy, Jacques Kallis, Gary Kirsten, Makhaya Ntini, Shaun Pollock, Jonty Rhodes, Pat Symcox
• 1998 Commonwealth Games: Shaun Pollock (C), Mark Boucher (WK), Alan Dawson, Andrew Hudson, Dale Benkenstein, Derek Crookes, Henry Williams, Herschelle Gibbs, Jacques Kallis, Makhaya Ntini, Michael Rindel, Nicky Boje, Paul Adams, Steve Elworthy

ODI World Cups

• 1992 ODI CWC: Kepler Wessels (C), David Richardson (WK), Tertius Bosch, Hansie Cronje, Allan Donald, Omar Henry, Andrew Hudson, Peter Kirsten, Adrian Kuiper, Brian McMillan, Meyrick Pringle, Jonny Rhodes, Mark Rushmere, Richard Snell
• 1999 ODI CWC: Hansie Cronje (C), Mark Boucher (WK), Gary Kirsten, Herschelle Gibbs, Jacques Kallis, Daryll Cullinan, Dale Benkenstein, Shaun Pollock, Jonty Rhodes, Allan Donald, Derek Crookes, Alan Dawson, Lance Klusser, Steve Elworthy, Nicky Boje
• 2007 ODI CWC: Graeme Smith (C), Mark Boucher (WK), AB de Villiers (WK), Loots Bosman, Herschelle Gibbs, Andrew Hall, Jacques Kallis, Justin Kemp, Charl Langeveldt, Andre Nel, Makhaya Ntini, Robin Peterson, Shaun Pollock, Ashwell Prince, Roger Telemachus
• 2015 ODI CWC: AB de Villiers (C), Quinton de Kock (WK), Hashim Amla, Kyle Abbott, Farhaan Behardien, Faf du Plessis, JP Duminy, David Miller, Morne Morkel, Wayne Parnell, Aaron Phangiso, Vernon Philander, Rilee Rossouw, Dale Steyn, Imran Tahir
• 2023 ODI CWC: Temba Bavuma (C), Quinton de Kock (WK), Heinrich Klaasen (WK), Keshav Maharaj, Gerald Coetzee, Reeza Hendricks, Marco Jansen, Aiden Markram, David Miller, Andel Phehlukwayo, Kagiso Rabada, Tabraiz Shamsi, Lizaad Williams, Rassie van der Dussen, Sisanda Magala*, Anrich Nortje*

*replaced due to injury

T20 World Cups

• 2009 T20 WC: Graeme Smith (C), Mark Boucher (WK), Yusuf Abdulla, Johan Botha, AB de Villiers, JP Duminy, Herschelle Gibbs, Jacques Kallis, Albie Morkel, Morne Morkel, Justin Ontong, Wayne Parnell, Robin Peterson, Dale Steyn, Roelof van der Merwe
• 2014 T20 WC: Faf du Plessis (C), Quinton de Kock (WK), Hashim Amla, Farhaan Behardien, AB de Villiers, JP Duminy, Beuran Hendricks, Imran Tahir, David Miller, Albie Morkel, Morne Morkel, Wayne Parnell, Aaron Phangiso, Dale Steyn, Lonwabo Tsotsobe

Final Thoughts

The rich tapestry of South African cricket is woven with the extraordinary contributions of countless remarkable players spanning different eras.

From the pioneering feats of Jimmy Sinclair and Herbie Taylor to the modern-day brilliance of stars like AB De Villiers and Dale Steyn, each player has left an indelible mark on the sport, shaping its history and inspiring generations.

Through their skill, resilience, and unwavering passion, these cricketing icons have not only entertained fans but also united a nation, showcasing the transformative power of sport in South Africa and beyond.

Who were your favorite players? Comment below.

You May Also Like: Top 50 Greatest West Indies Cricketers of All Time: The Complete List (2023), List of 62 South African Born Cricketers Who Represented Other Nations: How Many South African Cricketers played for Australia, England, and New Zealand?

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) – Greatest South African Cricketers of All-Time

Sources: ESPN Cricinfo’s All-Time XIs South Africa Edition

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