Introduction
T20 cricket has completely changed the way we look at the game. It’s fast, exciting, and full of action. In just 20 overs per side, we see big sixes, quick wickets, and edge-of-the-seat finishes. Because the format is short, every player needs to make an impact quickly, and that’s what makes T20 so special.
Over the years, many players have made a big name for themselves in T20 cricket. Some are known for their explosive batting, some for their clever bowling, and others for doing a bit of everything. But who are the best T20 players in the world right now?
In this blog, we’ll take a closer look at the top T20 cricketers who are dominating the game today. We’ll also talk about what makes a great T20 player and why these stars stand out from the rest.
Best T20 Players in the World (2025)
Suryakumar Yadav (India) – Batsman
- Known as the No.1 T20I batsman recently.
- Famous for his 360-degree shot-making and fearless middle-order hitting.
- A key match-winner for India and the Mumbai Indians.
Jos Buttler (England) – Batsman/Wicketkeeper
- Explosive opener who dominates power plays.
- Played crucial roles in England’s T20 World Cup victories.
- Experienced in almost every major T20 league.
Rashid Khan (Afghanistan) – Bowler
- One of the most effective T20 bowlers globally.
- His fast leg-spin and googlies are tough to read.
- A consistent performer in the IPL, BBL, and international cricket.
Mohammad Rizwan (Pakistan) – Batsman/Wicketkeeper
- Known for his consistency and strong strike rotation.
- Often anchors Pakistan’s innings in T20Is.
- His partnerships and match awareness make him a vital asset.
Hardik Pandya (India) – All-Rounder
- A game-changer with bat and ball.
- Strong hitter in the death overs and can bowl crucial overs too.
- Leadership in T20 leagues adds extra value.
Shaheen Afridi (Pakistan) – Bowler
- Deadly with the new ball, often takes early wickets.
- Can bowl yorkers at a high pace in the death overs.
- Proven performer in ICC tournaments and leagues like the PSL.
Glenn Maxwell (Australia) – All-Rounder
- Unpredictable and explosive batting.
- Useful off-spin and sharp fielding.
- His strike rate and ability to change a game in minutes make him elite.
Jofra Archer (England) – Bowler
- Fast, accurate, and dangerous at all stages of the innings.
- Known for his IPL performances and lethal short balls.
David Miller (South Africa) – Batsman
- Known as \”Killer Miller\” for a reason.
- Finishes games with brutal power-hitting.
- A cool-headed finisher under pressure.
Wanindu Hasaranga (Sri Lanka) – All-Rounder
- A top-quality leg-spinner who picks up key wickets.
- Handy with the bat and known for rescuing Sri Lanka in tough moments.
Best T20 Batsmen in the World (Current Era)
Suryakumar Yadav (India)
- Known for his innovative 360-degree strokeplay.
- Holds the top spot in ICC T20I batting rankings.
- Consistently scores quick runs in both international cricket and IPL.
Jos Buttler (England)
- Explosive opener with the ability to dominate power plays.
- Key player in England’s T20 World Cup wins.
- Known for aggressive batting and finishing matches.
Babar Azam (Pakistan)
- Elegant and consistent batsman with a great technique.
- Often anchors Pakistan’s T20 innings.
- Known for his ability to play under pressure.
KL Rahul (India)
- Versatile batsman who can open or bat in the middle order.
- Great at pacing the innings and accelerating when needed.
- A top performer in IPL and international T20s.
Devon Conway (New Zealand)
- Rising star with powerful stroke play.
- Impressive consistency in recent international matches.
- Brings stability and explosiveness to the New Zealand lineup.
Dinesh Karthik (India)
- Experienced finisher with sharp cricketing instincts.
- Known for finishing games and playing under pressure.
- A valuable asset for India and various T20 leagues.
Shai Hope (West Indies)
- Stylish batsman with excellent technique.
- Has a good record of consistent scoring in T20 internationals.
- Often plays the role of anchor for the West Indies.
Rahmanullah Gurbaz (Afghanistan)
- Aggressive opener with fearless batting.
- A key figure in Afghanistan’s growing T20 success.
- Known for hitting big sixes early in innings.
These batsmen have shown great skill, consistency, and the ability to perform in high-pressure T20 matches. If you want, I can expand this list or provide detailed stats and highlights for each player!
Best T20 Bowlers in the World
Rashid Khan (Afghanistan)
- World-class leg-spinner known for his fast, accurate, and deceptive deliveries.
- Consistently takes wickets while keeping the economy rate low.
- A match-winner in almost every league he plays.
Shaheen Afridi (Pakistan)
- Tall left-arm fast bowler with the ability to swing the new ball.
- Effective both at the start and death overs.
- Known for taking crucial early wickets and maintaining pressure.
Jasprit Bumrah (India)
- One of the best death-over bowlers with pinpoint yorkers.
- Can bowl at high speeds with great accuracy.
- Consistently among the top wicket-takers in T20 internationals and IPL.
Wanindu Hasaranga (Sri Lanka)
- Leg-spinner with sharp variations and wicket-taking ability.
- Also, a handy lower-order batsman.
- Ranked among the top T20 bowlers in the ICC rankings.
Trent Boult (New Zealand)
- Left-arm fast bowler who swings the ball both ways.
- Known for early breakthroughs and controlling runs.
- Key bowler in New Zealand’s T20 squad.
Adil Rashid (England)
- Experienced leg-spinner with excellent control.
- Uses variations like the googly effectively.
- A reliable wicket-taker in English conditions and abroad.
Kagiso Rabada (South Africa)
- Express fast bowler known for pace and bounce.
- Takes important wickets in crucial moments.
- Has a strong record in international T20s and leagues.
Deepak Chahar (India)
- Swing bowler specializing in early overs.
- Has taken multiple 4- or 5-wicket hauls in T20 cricket.
- Great at controlling the game’s momentum from the start.
These bowlers are known for their skill, variations, and ability to perform in pressure situations in the shortest format. Let me know if you want detailed stats or stories behind their success!
Best T20 All-Rounders in the World
Hardik Pandya (India)
- Explosive batsman and effective medium-fast bowler.
- Known for finishing games with the bat and taking crucial wickets.
- Strong leader, recently captained Gujarat Titans to an IPL title.
Ben Stokes (England)
- Powerful middle-order batsman and fast bowler.
- Renowned for game-changing performances in pressure situations.
- Key player in England’s white-ball teams.
Andre Russell (West Indies)
- Explosive hitter with deadly fast bowling.
- Known for clearing boundaries and taking quick wickets.
- One of the most feared T20 all-rounders globally.
Shakib Al Hasan (Bangladesh)
- Experienced left-arm spinner and consistent batsman.
- Key figure in Bangladesh’s T20 side.
- Valuable in all phases of the game.
Glenn Maxwell (Australia)
- Aggressive middle-order batsman and handy off-spinner.
- Known for innovative batting and crucial breakthroughs with the ball.
- Often changes the game’s momentum quickly.
Ravindra Jadeja (India)
- Accurate left-arm spinner and reliable lower-order batsman.
- Exceptional fielder with sharp catching and throwing skills.
- An important player in all formats for India.
Dwayne Bravo (West Indies)
- Veteran all-rounder with smart bowling variations.
- Dangerous finisher with the bat.
- Known for death-over bowling expertise.
Wanindu Hasaranga (Sri Lanka)
- A leg-spinner who also contributes valuable runs lower down the order.
- Rising star with match-winning abilities in T20 cricket.
These all-rounders bring balance to their teams by contributing both with bat and ball, often turning matches in their team’s favor. If you want, I can add more details or stats!
Legends Who Shaped T20 Cricket
Chris Gayle (West Indies)
- Known as the \”Universe Boss,\” Gayle revolutionized T20 batting with his power-hitting.
- Holds multiple records for the highest individual scores in T20 cricket.
- His explosive style made him the most feared batsman in the format and helped popularize T20 globally.
MS Dhoni (India)
- Master finisher and tactical genius behind the stumps.
- Led India to their first T20 World Cup win in 2007.
- Known for calmness under pressure and the ability to finish matches with clever batting.
Lasith Malinga (Sri Lanka)
- Pioneered yorkers and slower balls in T20 cricket, especially in death overs.
- Known for his unique bowling action and clutch performances.
- Has taken multiple hat-tricks in T20 internationals and IPL.
AB de Villiers (South Africa)
- Nicknamed \”Mr. 360\” for his ability to hit shots all around the ground.
- One of the most innovative and versatile T20 batsmen.
- His creativity and quick scoring changed how batsmen approach the format.
Dwayne Bravo (West Indies)
- Known for his death bowling skills and powerful hitting.
- Consistently among the top wicket-takers in T20 leagues worldwide.
- Played a key role in the West Indies’ dominance in T20 cricket.
Kieron Pollard (West Indies)
- Explosive hitter and reliable fast bowler.
- Key player in multiple IPL titles and T20 tournaments.
- Known for his big sixes and finishing ability.
Virat Kohli (India)
- One of the best chasers in T20 cricket.
- Holds numerous records for most runs and consistency.
- His fitness and work ethic set new standards for T20 cricketers.
These legends helped shape T20 cricket into the thrilling, fast-paced game loved by millions today. Their unique skills, match-winning performances, and charismatic presence made the format popular worldwide.
Career Highlights of the Best T20 Players in the World
Suryakumar Yadav (India)
- Debuted in T20Is in 2021 and quickly became the world’s No.1 T20I batsman.
- Known for his 360-degree shots and fearless intent.
- Scored over 1,500 T20I runs in less than 50 matches with a strike rate above 145.
- Key performer for the Mumbai Indians in the IPL with multiple match-winning knocks.
Jos Buttler (England)
- Over 3,000 T20I runs with a strike rate of around 140+.
- Centurion in both the IPL and international T20s.
- Played a huge role in England’s T20 World Cup 2022 win as captain and opener.
- Regular match-winner for the Rajasthan Royals in the IPL.
Rashid Khan (Afghanistan)
- More than 550 T20 wickets across formats and leagues.
- Maintains an economy rate below 6.5 in T20Is—a rare feat.
- First Afghan player to play in nearly every major T20 league (IPL, BBL, CPL, PSL).
- Led Afghanistan with both performance and inspiration.
Mohammad Rizwan (Pakistan)
- Scored over 2,500 T20I runs with an average above 45.
- Top run-scorer in T20Is in 2021.
- Player of the tournament in PSL multiple times.
- Crucial in Pakistan’s T20 World Cup 2021 and 2022 campaigns.
Hardik Pandya (India)
- Over 1,200 T20I runs and 60+ wickets.
- Led Gujarat Titans to an IPL title in their debut season (2022).
- Known for match-finishing abilities and strong leadership.
- Regularly bowls key overs and contributes in all departments.
Shaheen Afridi (Pakistan)
- Over 80 T20I wickets and counting.
- Famous for dismissing top-order batsmen early with the new ball.
- Star bowler in the PSL and for Lahore Qalandars.
- Known for match-winning spells in ICC tournaments.
Glenn Maxwell (Australia)
- Over 2,200 T20I runs with a strike rate of 150+.
- Known for unorthodox shots and explosive middle-order batting.
- Scored fastest T20I century for Australia (off 40 balls).
- Match-winner in both IPL and international cricket.
Jofra Archer (England)
- T20I economy rate under 8 with 30+ wickets.
- Lethal pace and pinpoint yorkers.
- The key part of England’s white-ball revolution.
- Successful stints in IPL with Rajasthan Royals and Mumbai Indians.
David Miller (South Africa)
- Over 2,000 T20I runs and many more in leagues.
- Famous for the fastest T20I century (off 35 balls).
- Reliable finisher with a strong record in pressure games.
- Match-winner for South Africa and Titans in the SA20 League.
Wanindu Hasaranga (Sri Lanka)
- Over 100 T20 wickets with a brilliant average and strike rate.
- Became the No.1 T20I bowler in ICC rankings.
- Regular wicket-taker in all major leagues.
- Capable lower-order hitter who turns matches around.
Suryakumar Yadav (India) – The 360-Degree Maestro
Early Life & Background:
Born on September 14, 1990, in Mumbai, Suryakumar Yadav hails from a family originally from Ghazipur, Uttar Pradesh. He began his cricket journey under the guidance of his uncle in Varanasi before moving to Mumbai, where he trained at the BARC colony and later at the Elf Vengsarkar Academy.
Struggles & Rise:
Despite consistent performances in domestic cricket, Suryakumar faced challenges breaking into the national team. His perseverance paid off when he made his T20I debut in 2021, quickly establishing himself as a key player with his innovative shot-making.
Achievements:
- Held the top spot in ICC T20I rankings from October 2022 to June 2024.
- Scored over 3,000 international runs, with four T20I centuries.
- Named ICC Men\’s T20I Cricketer of the Year in 2022 and 2023.
- An integral part of the Mumbai Indians\’ IPL victories in 2019 and 2020.
Shaheen Afridi (Pakistan) – The Left-Arm Sensation
Early Life & Background:
Born on April 6, 2000, in Landi Kotal, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Shaheen Afridi is the youngest of seven siblings. His elder brother, Riaz Afridi, also played international cricket for Pakistan.
Struggles & Rise:
Growing up in a region with limited resources, Shaheen\’s passion for cricket saw him rise through the ranks, making his international debut at just 17.
Achievements:
- Youngest Pakistani fast bowler to take 100 Test wickets at age 21.
- Awarded ICC Men\’s Cricketer of the Year in 2021.
- Played a pivotal role in Pakistan\’s 2019 World Cup campaign.
- Married Ansha Afridi, daughter of Shahid Afridi, in 2023.
Hardik Pandya (India) – The Dynamic All-Rounder
Early Life & Background:
Born on October 11, 1993, in Surat, Gujarat, Hardik Pandya moved to Vadodara with his family to pursue cricket. Financial constraints meant the family lived modestly, with Hardik and his brother Krunal training at Kiran More\’s academy.
Struggles & Rise:
Facing financial hardships and being dropped from state teams due to perceived attitude issues, Hardik\’s determination saw him break into the IPL with Mumbai Indians, eventually earning a spot in the national team.
Achievements:
- Key player in the Mumbai Indians\’ multiple IPL titles.
- Led Gujarat Titans to an IPL title in their debut season (2022).
- Renowned for his explosive batting and effective bowling in T20s.
Jofra Archer (England) – The Pace Prodigy
Early Life & Background:
Born on April 1, 1995, in Bridgetown, Barbados, Jofra Archer moved to England in 2015. Initially representing West Indies U-19, he later qualified to play for England after a change in the ECB\’s eligibility rules.
Struggles & Rise:
Archer faced challenges with injuries, leading to extended periods away from cricket. Despite this, his resilience saw him return to international cricket, becoming a vital asset for England.
Achievements:
- Instrumental in England\’s 2019 World Cup win.
- Known for his express pace and lethal bowling in T20s.
- Overcame multiple injuries to make a successful comeback in 2024.
Wanindu Hasaranga (Sri Lanka) – The Spin Wizard
Early Life & Background:
Born on July 29, 1997, in Galle, Sri Lanka, Hasaranga began his cricket journey as a fast bowler before transitioning to leg-spin under the guidance of his coach at Richmond College.
Struggles & Rise:
Switching from pace to spin was a significant change, but Hasaranga adapted quickly, making his mark in domestic cricket and earning a spot in the national team.
Achievements:
- First Sri Lankan to take a hat-trick in a T20 World Cup (2021).
- Achieved the No.1 spot in ICC T20I bowling rankings.
- Played for various franchises, showcasing his all-around abilities.
Mohammad Rizwan (Pakistan) – The Consistent Performer
Early Life & Background:
Born on June 1, 1992, in Peshawar, Mohammad Rizwan started his cricket journey with tape-ball cricket before progressing through club and domestic levels.
Struggles & Rise:
Rizwan faced stiff competition for the wicketkeeper-batsman role in the national team but cemented his place with consistent performances.
Achievements:
- ICC Men\’s T20I Cricketer of the Year in 2021.
- Scored over 2,500 T20I runs with an average above 45.
- An integral part of Pakistan\’s T20 World Cup campaigns in 2021 and 2022.
Glenn Maxwell (Australia) – The Big Show
Early Life & Background:
Born on October 14, 1988, in Kew, Victoria, Glenn Maxwell showcased his cricketing talent from a young age, known for his aggressive batting style.
Struggles & Rise:
Maxwell has been open about his mental health struggles, taking a break from cricket in 2019 to focus on his well-being. His transparency has made him a mental health advocate in sports.
Achievements:
- Holds the record for most T20I centuries by an Australian.
- Key player in Australia\’s T20 World Cup campaigns.
- Actively involved in charity work and mental health awareness initiatives.
Let me know if you’d like to convert this into a downloadable format or want to include more technical questions too!
Impact and Influence of the Best T20 Players
The best T20 players don’t just score runs or take wickets—they change the way cricket is played and inspire millions around the world. Their impact goes beyond the field, influencing fans, young players, and the sport itself in many important ways.
Changing the Game
- T20 cricket is fast and unpredictable, and players like Suryakumar Yadav and Jos Buttler have brought innovation with new shots and clever strategies. Bowlers like Rashid Khan and Shaheen Afridi have redefined spin and pace bowling in this format, showing that skill and variation matter as much as speed.
Inspiring Young Players
- Many young cricketers dream of being like these stars. Their success stories—from humble beginnings to international fame—motivate new generations to work hard and believe in themselves. Players like Hardik Pandya and Wanindu Hasaranga prove that all-around skills are valuable and can lead to success.
Boosting the Popularity of T20 Leagues
- Top players bring excitement to leagues like IPL, BBL, and PSL, attracting huge audiences globally. Their performances increase viewership and fan engagement, helping cricket grow as a global sport.
Role Models Beyond Cricket
- Many of these players actively participate in charity work, promote mental health awareness, and use their platform to speak on social issues. Glenn Maxwell’s openness about mental health is one such example that encourages conversations about player well-being.
Economic Impact
- Star players boost the commercial value of cricket through endorsements and franchise value. Their presence in teams often determines sponsorships and fan following, creating a strong economic ecosystem around T20 cricket.
This shows that the best T20 players are not just athletes but also influencers who shape the future of cricket and inspire millions worldwide.
Conclusion
T20 cricket is full of excitement and fast action, and the best players bring energy, skill, and passion to the game. From powerful hitters to smart bowlers and all-rounders, these stars make every match thrilling to watch. Their journeys show us that with hard work and determination, anyone can overcome challenges and achieve success.
Whether it’s Suryakumar Yadav’s innovative batting or Rashid Khan’s magical spin, these players inspire fans and young cricketers around the world. As T20 cricket continues to grow, these players will keep shaping the future of the game and creating unforgettable moments for fans everywhere.