Why Virat Kohli and AB de Villiers are already all-time greats

[FreePalestine]

ABD, all formats, and Kohli in ODI's so far.

Stats are one thing. But in my book, A cricketing pioneer, a flag-bearer for a new contribution to their craft is an important part of being an ATG.

Yes, stats matter to an extent, for example, Sarfraz Nawaz, granddaddy of reverse swing but averaged above 32 in test cricket cannot be classed as an ATG.

But ABD, Gilchrist, Kohli, Sehwag, Jayasuria Warner, Smith, as well as Lara and Anwar for their artistry are all pioneers in their own way.

In bowling Khan, Akram Younis all made original contributions to the game, as well as Saqlain, Akhtar and others I am sure.

Saying that pioneers in cricket often can be called ATG's without necessarily having record breaking stats.

 

[Ab Fan]

Absolutely true.. Being a pioneer of a craft is simply a great deal and not many are able to do it. Further, when you consider that they have been the best batsmen in the world for a given time definitely that adds more value.

IMO, Smith and these two are clearly true ATGs of the game and I rate them very highly.

 

[HuzaifaE]

ABD didn't do justice to his talent.

In tests he barely gets onto the ATG conveyor belt when he should have comfortably been higher.

Similar story in ODIs, it's Kohli we talk about being the true GOAT in the format and going toe to toe with Richards.

He's right up there, don't get me wrong, easily one of the best ODI players of all time but he could have done more - he had the talent to go down undisputedly number 1 if he showed some more initiative in batting positions and/or in inspiring SA to break the ICC tournament jinx.

A truly freakishly talented player nonetheless.

 

[WhenSultansBowled]

Stats aside, both VK and AB can do things that ordinary batsmen can only dream of.

Both are fascinating players who are highly rated by fans, game experts and past bona fide great players.

I believe if both of them retired today they'll be considered ATGs of the game by future generations.