Last Updated: April 16, 2025
Top 10 Most Underrated Cricketers Who Deserved More Recognition
In a world where cricketing giants like Sachin Tendulkar, Virat Kohli, and AB de Villiers dominate the spotlight, there are those who quietly shaped the game with brilliance that often went uncelebrated. These players performed consistently, held their teams together in difficult times, and produced match-winning efforts—yet they remain underappreciated. This article celebrates those unsung heroes.
1. Shivnarine Chanderpaul (West Indies)
With over 11,000 Test runs, Chanderpaul was the glue in a fragile West Indies batting lineup post-Brian Lara. His awkward stance and quiet demeanor kept him out of the limelight, but his resilience and run-scoring ability were world-class. He faced some of the most lethal bowling attacks and still averaged over 50 in Tests.
2. Misbah-ul-Haq (Pakistan)
Often remembered for that slow World T20 final innings in 2007, Misbah’s broader contribution to Pakistan cricket is immense. He led Pakistan out of chaos, gave it stability, and guided the team to the number one Test ranking—yet he rarely receives the respect he deserves outside Pakistan.
3. Damien Martyn (Australia)
In an Australian side filled with legends, Martyn’s elegant strokeplay often got overshadowed. His contributions in difficult conditions, especially during the 2004 India tour, were vital. He averaged over 46 in Tests and was often the man for the crisis—yet he was always second fiddle to more flamboyant teammates.
4. VVS Laxman (India)
Despite playing one of the greatest innings of all time (281 vs Australia at Eden Gardens), VVS never quite received the star treatment of his peers like Dravid or Tendulkar. His graceful wristwork, calm under pressure, and ability to perform in crunch situations defined him—but not enough accolades followed.
5. Faf du Plessis (South Africa)
A captain with incredible grit, Faf was the backbone of the South African middle order for nearly a decade. His 110 against Australia in Adelaide is still rated among the best Test debuts. He brought leadership, strategy, and class, yet often found himself out of the ‘elite’ lists.
6. Mohammad Hafeez (Pakistan)
Known as ‘The Professor,’ Hafeez served Pakistan as an all-rounder for nearly two decades. His bowling gave breakthroughs, and his batting stabilized innings. Despite excellent performances in T20Is and ODIs, he was often criticized more than appreciated, especially compared to contemporaries.
7. Chris Woakes (England)
Woakes is the definition of a complete team man. Dependable with the ball and reliable with the bat, he was instrumental in England's 2019 World Cup win. Still, he remains in the shadow of flashier all-rounders like Ben Stokes or Moeen Ali.
8. Rangana Herath (Sri Lanka)
Post-Muralitharan, Herath stepped up and took over 400 Test wickets for Sri Lanka. His ability to deceive with flight and accuracy was underrated. He quietly won many games for his country without ever being hyped like other spinners of his era.
9. Paul Collingwood (England)
Collingwood was not the most graceful batsman, but he was gritty, consistent, and an excellent fielder. He captained England to their first ICC trophy (2010 T20 World Cup) and often saved matches with the bat in dire situations. He’s now a respected coach, but his playing career deserved more spotlight.
10. Azhar Ali (Pakistan)
With over 7000 Test runs and a triple century to his name, Azhar was the anchor for Pakistan’s Test team for a decade. His quiet demeanor and old-school style of play made him less popular in the social media age, but his contributions are invaluable.