Cricket 2021: Greatest players of the 21st century 50-1

Who are the 50 greatest cricketers of this century so far? Our team of cricket experts pondered that question. And the results are in. VOTE HERE

Comparing different eras in sport is notoriously difficult. Looking, then, at one discreet period, as we have done when selecting our greatest male cricketers of the 21st Century, might make it easier? Not so.

Our panel of cricket experts — Robert ‘Crash’ Craddock, Joe Barton, Sam Landsberger and with advice from Shane Warne — were faced with measuring the careers of greats whose careers have spanned a period of near constant change. When ODI matches have been turbo-charged, and T20 cricket has seen skills taken to a new level.

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Counting down the 50 best cricketers of the 21st Century.

Some on the list’s own time in the game also crossed the millennial boundary. To make it a truly 21st century list, those who had retired by 2005 were discounted. After making the cut, weight was given to performances after January 1 2000. Form being temporary and class permanent meant a number of players in the autumn of their careers still were ranked high, while some current stars missed out simply due to a smaller body of work, however excellent it may be.

BELOW: Vote in our exclusive interactive of the 50 best players of the 21st century

Stats and averages are a useful guide. But don’t tell the whole story. Other factors were also considered. Great players leave a lasting legacy. They change the game and leave it changed. They win things. And, perhaps most importantly, thrill fans and burn themselves in to the memories of those who care about the game.

That, ultimately, is the true measure of greatness.

Originally published as Cricket 2021: Greatest players of the 21st century 50-1