Captains are often regarded as the heartbeat of a cricket team. While individual performances certainly matter, it’s the captain who skillfully brings together these diverse talents, and leads their efforts towards victory.
The title of the “World’s Best Cricket Captain” is more than just about tactics – it’s a symbol of their ability to unite and motivate the team. Staying composed under pressure, adapting to change, and elevating each player’s performance is a key role of captain.
This article explores the amazing journeys of cricketing legends and the qualities that made them historic. We’ll discover the best captains in cricket history who brought trophies and immense admiration to cricket.
List of Top 10 Popular and Best Captains in Cricket
Come be a part of our journey as we admire these extraordinary cricket captains. They’ve not only aced captaincy but also won the affection of cricket fans all over the world.
10. Arjuna Ranatunga
Country: Sri Lanka
Total Career: 1982 – 2000
Position: Batsman
International Runs:12,561 runs
International Wickets: 95
Arjuna Ranatunga was great at both playing cricket and being a captain. He wasn’t just skilled at the game; he was one of the best captain with great leadership qualities. Arjuna made history by leading Sri Lanka to their first-ever Cricket World Cup win in 1996.
Arjuna Ranatunga was a skilled cricket player known for his steady batting and all-around contributions. He played a big part in Sri Lankan cricket’s progress. With his dependable performance, he helped the team grow stronger.
His clever plans, focus on the team working together, and excellent leadership skills were all really important for the World Cup victory. He showed how important it is to keep trying and stay dedicated to the sport.
Matches as Captain:
Test: 56 games – 23 won, 19 lost, 25draw
ODI: 193 games – 89 won, 95 lost, 1 tied, 8 no results
Win %: 43.59 %
9. Eoin Morgan
Country: England
Total Career: 2006 – 2022
Position: Batsman
International Runs: 10,859 runs
Eoin Morgan’s journey in cricket is a tale of success both as a skilled player and an exceptional captain for England. He not only showcased impressive batting but also led the English cricket team to a significant achievement – winning the ICC Cricket World Cup in 2019.
Morgan’s captaincy was a turning point for English cricket. He brought a fresh approach and strategic mindset that turned into a competitive force on the global stage. Under his leadership, England adopted an aggressive yet calculated style of play that suited modern cricket’s demands.
The most notable highlight of Morgan’s captaincy was the ICC Cricket World Cup victory in 2019. It was England’s first-ever World Cup win, and Morgan’s steady guidance and smart decision-making played a vital role.
He set an example of adaptability, sportsmanship, and effective leadership.
Matches as Captain:
ODI: 126 games – 76 won, 40 lost, 2 tied, 8 no results
T20: 72 games – 42 won, 27 lost, 2 tied, 1 no results
Win %: 59.33 %
8. Allan Border
Country: Australia
Total Career: 1978 – 1994
Position: Batsman
International Runs:17,698 runs
International Wickets: 112
Allan Border was one of the best captains in cricket with remarkable achievements. He led the Australian cricket team during a crucial phase when they were struggling, and his leadership turned things around.
When Allan Border led the team, they became determined and strong. He played a big role in making Australia a strong team by being a calm and composed captain. His way of leading motivated the players to do their very best.
One of his major achievements of Allan Border was leading Australia to their first-ever Cricket World Cup victory in 1987. This win was a big deal for Australian cricket, and Border’s strategic thinking and motivating leadership as captain was crucial.
His impact on Australian cricket and his skill in guiding the team to success is why he is remembered as one of the best cricket captains.
Matches as Captain:
Test: 93 games – 32 won, 22 lost,1 tied, 38draw
ODI: 178 games – 107 won, 67 lost, 1 tied, 3 no results
Win %: 47.26 %
7. Clive Lloyd
Country: West Indies
Total Career: 1966 – 1985
Position: Batsman
International Runs: 9,492 runs
International Wickets: 18
Clive Lloyd’s journey in cricket was remarkable, both as a skilled player and an influential captain. With Clive Lloyd as their captain, the West Indies team won the Cricket World Cups in 1975 and 1979, creating history.
Lloyd was an amazing cricketer, and he became even more special as a captain. He united the team and led them to big successes worldwide, like winning two World Cups in a row. His smart plans and motivating ways showed how great he was at leading.
His way of leading and all the great things he did in cricket still inspire new players and fans. He’s a real hero and one of the best captains in cricket.
Matches as Captain:
Test: 74 games – 36 won, 12 lost, 26draw
ODI: 84 games – 64 won, 18 lost, 1 tied, 1 no results
Win %: 62.42%
6. Virat Kholi
Country: India
Total Career: 2008 – Current
Position: Batsman
International Runs: 25,582 runs
International Wickets: 8
Virat Kohli is an amazing cricket player and captain. He’s known for his fantastic batting skills and his passion for the game. As a captain, Kohli led India to their first-ever Test series win in Australia in 2018-2019, which was a huge accomplishment.
Kohli’s journey in cricket is all about hard work and dedication. He’s broken many records with his batting and has become one of the most consistent performers in the world. His energy and determination on the field make him a true cricket star.
Under his captaincy, India achieved some memorable victories, and his never-give-up attitude has inspired many players. Kohli’s impact on the game is immense, both as a player and a captain. He is also one of the best captains in cricket.
Matches as Captain:
Test: 68 games – 40 won, 17 lost, 11draw
ODI: 95 games – 65 won, 27 lost, 1 tied, 2 no results
T20: 50 games – 30 won, 16 lost, 2 tied, 2 no results
Win %: 62.08%
Also know: Greatest Fast Bowler in Cricket History
5. Steve Waugh
Country: Australia
Total Career: 1985 – 2004
Position: All-rounder
International Runs: 18,496 runs
International Wickets: 287
Steve Waugh’s journey in cricket is a tale of extraordinary achievements as both a player and a captain. As a cricketer, he showcased exceptional skills with the bat and bowl, renowned for his steady and resolute style of batting. He had to stop bowling due to a back problem later in his career.
Steve Waugh was a great player and one of the best captions in history. He led Australia’s team to many wins, like the ICC Cricket World Cup in 1999. His determination and never-give-up spirit were what people remembered about his time as captain.
He was not just a cricket player; he showed us how to be strong and stay cool. People called him the “Iceman” because he stayed calm even when things were tough. His way of leading by doing made him special.
Matches as Captain:
Test: 57 games – 41 won, 9 lost, 7draw
ODI: 106 games – 67 won, 35 lost, 3 tied, 1 no results
Win %: 67.57%
4. Graeme Smith
Country: South Africa
Career: 2002-2014
Position: Opening Batsman
International Runs: 17,236 runs
International Wickets: 26
Graeme Smith was an excellent cricket player and leader. He played cricket well and became one of the best captains in cricket too. He led South Africa’s cricket team and achieved a record number of Test match wins.
Under Graeme Smith’s captaincy, South Africa became the top-ranked team in Test cricket. His skills and leadership made him a respected figure in cricket. When he was the captain, South Africa won a lot of Test matches, and Smith’s smart strategies were a big part of their success.
Smith was good at bringing the team together and making them determined. His calm attitude and smart thinking on the field made people admire him as both a player and a captain.
Matches as Captain:
Test: 108 games -53 won, 28 lost, 27 draw
ODI: 149 games – 92 won, 51 lost, 1 tied, 5 No Results
T20: 27 games – 18 won, 9 lost
Win % : 59.16%
3. Imran Khan
Country: Pakistan
Total Career: 1971-1992
Position: All-rounder
International Runs: 7,508 runs
International Wickets: 544
Imran Khan was not only a skilled cricket player but also a renowned captain. His journey in cricket was filled with impressive achievements and strong leadership. As a player, he was known for his exceptional fast bowling and dependable batting.
Under Imran Khan’s leadership, the team achieved its crowning glory by winning the Cricket World Cup in 1992. Imran’s strategic thinking and ability to motivate his team members were key factors in this victory.
Beyond the World Cup, he also inspired his team to many other significant wins, instilling a sense of unity and determination. He is also remembered for his dedication to philanthropy and his transition into the world of politics after his cricket career.
Matches as Captain:
Test: 48 games -14 won, 8 lost, 26 draw
ODI: 139 games – 75 won, 59 lost, 1 tied, 4 No Results
Win %: 41.57%
2. Ricky Ponting
Country: Australia
Total Career: 1995-2012
Position: Batsman
International Runs: 27,483 runs
International Wickets: 8
Ricky Ponting was not just a cricket player; he was also a remarkable captain. His cricket journey was filled with incredible performances and strong leadership. As a player, he had an amazing ability to score runs consistently and was known for his aggressive batting style.
He led the Australian cricket team with determination and a winning spirit. Under his leadership, the team achieved different important victories, including back-to-back ICC Cricket World Cups in 2003 and 2007.
Ricky Ponting’s cricket legacy combines his amazing talent as a player and his success as a captain. His love for the game and his commitment to his team still motivate cricket fans everywhere in the world.
Matches as Captain:
Test: 77 games – 48 won, 16 lost, 13draw
ODI: 229 games – 164 won, 51 lost, 2 tied, 12 no Results
T20: 17 games – 7 won, 10 lost
Win %: 58.04%
1. MS Dhoni
Country: India
Total Career: 2004-2019
Position: Wicketkeeper-Batsman
International Runs: 17,266 runs
International Wicket: 1
MS Dhoni is a cricket superstar who shone brightly both as an exceptional player and an extraordinary captain. His journey is a story of incredible achievements, with one of the brightest moments being India’s victory in the World Cup.
Under Dhoni’s leadership, India achieved historic milestones, and the best success was undoubtedly the 2011 ICC Cricket World Cup. Dhoni’s captaincy guided the team to victory after 28 years and his iconic six to seal the final will forever be etched in cricket fans’ memories.
In addition to the 2011 World Cup, India achieved significant ICC wins including the T20 World Cup in 2007 and the ICC Champions Trophy in 2013, all led by Dhoni. His strong leadership and smart strategies made him a cricket legend. MS Dhoni is one of the best captains in cricket history.
Matches as Captain:
Test: 60 games -27 won, 18 lost, 11draw
ODI: 200 games – 110 won, 74 lost, 5 tied, 11 no Results
T20: 72 games – 41 won, 28 lost, 1 tied, 2 no results
Win %: 52.98%
Data Source: espncricinfo.com
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