Australia players have gained huge rankings in the latest update among the ICC ODI batters. They earned a 2-1 series defeat against South Africa at home, having already lost the first couple of 50-over fixtures. They were rewarded with the latest rankings in the batting department after their huge victory during the final game in McKay.

The home side’s captain, Mitchell Marsh, won the toss and decided to bat first on a firm surface. Centuries from the top three of the national side, Travis Head, Marsh, and Cameron Green, along with the half-century from Alex Carey, pushed them to reach 431/2 in their allotted 50 overs as the Proteas were bundled out for 155 to lose by 276 runs.

See Also: 'Call it Bazball or...'- Former Australia coach gives suggestion to England before Ashes 2025/26

Head gained one place to move to the 11th position, while Marsh jumped four rungs to move to the 44th. On the other hand, Green raises a whopping 40 slots to 78th. Josh Inglis has also improved 23 slots to move to the 64th position as a result of his 87 in the final innings in Mackay against the Rainbow Nation.

Australia stars improve in ICC ODI rankings’ update

India’s opening batting duo, Shubman Gill and captain Rohit Sharma, remain at the top of the rankings for batters, followed by Babar Azam at the third position in the table. In the bowling rankings, Keshav Maharaj has Sri Lanka’s Maheesh Theekshana at the top with 671 points.

ICC Men’s ODI batting rankings

ICC Men’s ODI bowling rankings

The blazing century against South Africa has increased hype around Cameron Green ahead of the mini auction of IPL 2026. After playing IPL 2023 and IPL 2024, the Australian all-rounder missed the previous Indian Premier League edition.

Multiple teams in IPL 2025 lacked an overseas all-rounder department. Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), the former champion, also face issues from this part of their squad. Andre Russell, the seasoned all-rounder for KKR, is now well over his prime days and took retirement from T20Is at the age of 37. KKR needs to find a proper replacement for the pace bowling all-rounder. Cameron Green can be a like-for-like substitution—a pace bowling all-rounder in place of another pace bowling all-rounder.

Green has so far participated in only two IPL seasons, and those two campaigns were incredible for him in terms of individual stats. In IPL 2023, the Aussie played for the Mumbai Indians and generated a batting average of 50.22 in 16 innings, powered by an unbeaten century. In total, he scored 452 runs for the Mumbai-based team.

Read More: Rohit Sharma vice-captain, Virat Kohli at number 3: Daren Sammy selects Dream T20 11

Why KKR should consider Green in place of Russell?

In the following season, Green moved to Royal Challengers Bengaluru and hit 255 runs in 12 innings; 31.87 was his batting average. He got notable success with the ball too. In total, the emerging all-rounder clinched 16 wickets in 29 IPL matches. KKR should secure the service of Cameron Green because he is only 26 years old, can hit the ball, and can take wickets as well.

Andre Russell has been associated with KKR for over 10 years. He played for other Knight Riders-acquired teams too. His previous IPL season for the Kolkata Knight Riders was not something to brag about. In 10 innings, the West Indian scored 167 runs in total at an average of 18.55. His bowling numbers were also unimpressive. In 9 IPL 2025 innings, the all-rounder claimed 8 wickets but proved costly, as his economy rate was 11.94—the poorest economy rate of his entire IPL career.

Australia produced a record-breaking performance in the third ODI against South Africa, clinching victory by a massive 276-run margin to seal a dominant win. After losing the series 2-1, the Aussies ensured they ended on a high with one of their finest batting displays in recent times. Opting to bat first after winning the toss, Australia’s top order dismantled South Africa’s bowling attack. The Proteas, who had already secured the series, were left helpless against the relentless aggression and precision shown by Australia’s batters.

The innings was set up by Travis Head’s blistering knock of 142 off just 103 balls, studded with 17 boundaries and 5 sixes. His partnership with captain Mitchell Marsh laid the perfect foundation for a massive total. Marsh himself struck a composed 100 off 106 balls, showcasing his ability to anchor and accelerate at will. Their 250-run stand for the first wicket left South Africa searching for breakthroughs before both fell in quick succession.

See Also: Top 5 fastest ODI centuries for Australia ft. Cameron Green

Once Head and Marsh departed, Cameron Green capitalized on the solid base, unleashing one of his most destructive innings in ODI cricket. Green hammered 118 off 55 deliveries at a strike rate of 214.55, striking 6 fours and 12 sixes. Alongside Alex Carey’s brisk 50 not out, the duo ensured Australia crossed the 400-mark with ease. Finishing at 431/2 in 50 overs, it was Australia’s second-highest ODI total ever and an almost insurmountable challenge for the visitors.

South Africa fell short of target by 276 runs

In reply, South Africa’s batting faltered under pressure. The early dismissals of Aiden Markram (2), Ryan Rickelton (11), and captain Temba Bavuma (19) left them reeling at 39/3 within six overs. Dewald Brevis showed some resistance with a 28-ball 49, displaying his trademark power hitting, but his dismissal sparked another collapse. None of the other batters could build partnerships, as wickets kept tumbling at regular intervals against a disciplined Australian bowling attack.

Cooper Connolly was the star with the ball, returning figures of 5/25 in six overs, dismantling South Africa’s middle and lower order. Abbott and Bartlett provided key breakthroughs with two wickets each, while Zampa chipped in with one. South Africa were bowled out for just 155 in 24.5 overs, losing by a huge 276 runs. Though South Africa claimed the series 2-1, Australia’s statement win reminded the cricketing world of their depth, power, and ability to bounce back strongly in any conditions.

Top-class batting performance from Australia against South Africa for the 3rd ODI of the 3-match series. Centuries from Travis Head, captain Mitchell Marsh, and Cameron Green took Australia's total to 431 in 50 overs. Among these 3 centuries, Green's was the fastest one. With his 47-ball hundred, the all-rounder registered his name in a record list as an Australian cricketer. After Glenn Maxwell, Green became the second fastest batter to score a hundred in ODIs for Australia. Before Green, the first and the second places were occupied by Maxwell. 

Fastest ODI hundreds for Australia:

Glenn Maxwell, 40-ball century vs Netherlands, 2023

On October 25, 2023, Australia hammered the Netherlands during a Cricket World Cup 2023 match. The winning margin of 309 runs is the largest ever at a Men’s Cricket World Cup and the second largest ever in ODIs. Glenn Maxwell turned out to be the wrecker-in-chief for the Aussies with his 40-ball century. In his 104-run innings, the hard hitter smashed nine 4s and eight 6s; the strike rate was 240.91. The Netherlands cricket team was able to get only 90 runs in reply to Australia's 399 runs. 

Cameron Green, 47-ball century vs South Africa, 2025:

Back-to-back sixes, the strike rate was about to touch the sky, and Cameron Green's clutch performance earned him the second spot on the record list. He took only 47 balls to complete the hundred against South Africa in the first innings of the match. During his 55-ball, 118-run innings, he found the rope 6 times for boundaries and sent the ball into the stand on 8 occasions. 

Read More: Rohit Sharma vice-captain, Virat Kohli at number 3: Daren Sammy selects Dream T20 11

Glenn Maxwell, 51-ball century vs Sri Lanka, 2015:

Maxwell's masterclass in the 2015 ICC World Cup against Sri Lanka. With this, he required 51 balls to complete the century and won the man of the match award. In 53 deliveries, the middle-order batter scored 102 runs to secure a total of 376 in the first innings for his team. Sri Lanka fought well; Kumar Sangakkara scored 104 runs but got only 312 runs in the second innings. Australia won the game by 64 runs. 

James Faulkner, 57-ball century vs India, 2013:

A high-scoring, record-breaking match between India and Australia in Bengaluru. India, batting fast, scored 383 runs for 6 wickets, and Australia batted bravely till the end but got 326 runs. India won by 57 runs. Rohit Sharma's 209-run innings overshadowed Faulkner's 57-ball hundred. The Aussie all-rounder played a 73-ball, 116-run innings but for a losing cause. 

Travis Head, 59-ball century vs New Zealand, 2023:

A neck-to-neck high-scoring match between Australia and New Zealand at Dharamshala. New Zealand was close to chasing down Australia's first innings 388 runs but fell short by only 5 runs. Travis Head got the man of the match award for his 109 off 67-ball innings. The opener took 59 deliveries to complete the hundred. He thrashed the ball 10 times for four and hoisted it 7 times over boundaries. 

Australia’s batting was on fire in the third ODI at Mackay as they scored a huge 431 runs for 2 wickets in 50 overs.

The innings started with Travis Head and Mitchell Marsh giving the team a dream start. They added a record 250 runs for the first wicket. Head was the key player, hitting the ball to all along the ground. He scored a brilliant 142 runs from 103 balls, 17 fours and 5 sixes. Marsh played a steady innings, reaching his hundred from 106 balls .

After their partnership, Cameron Green took charge and scored one of the fastest powerful innings in recent games . He reached his hundred in just 47 balls, the second fastest century by an Australian in ODIs. Green stayed unbeaten with 118 runs from only 55 balls, hitting long sixes with ease.

Alex Carey also scored brilliantly 50 runs not out from 37 balls, rotating the strike and supporting Green in the last final overs. By the end of the innings, Australia had scored a massive score, leaving South Africa facing a very tough chase of 432 runs.

ALSO READ: Kerala Cricket League 2025, Match 8: Kochi Blue Tigers vs Aries Kollam Sailors, Probable Playing 11, Where To Watch, Live Streaming Details

Twitter reactions after Aussies to 431/2 in First Innings in the 3rd ODI

What Aussie media will tell you: Australia scored 431 runs 🥶 🔥
What Aussie media will never tell you:
All those runs came against Mighty Dinda sorry Mphaka,110kph Wiaan Mulder,103 averege in ODI's with the ball Corbin Bosch & 57 average with the ball Aiden Markram 😂😂 pic.twitter.com/LlMwcBvIKR

— Troll cricket unlimitedd (@TUnlimitedd) August 24, 2025

Australia 431/2 in 50 overs.
Marnus Labuschagne didn't even get to bat.
Had he batted he would've scored 50 runs of 85 balls and Australia would've ended up with 375. 😂😂
Australia dodged a bullet 😂 pic.twitter.com/QnI2tyTKUs

— Troll cricket unlimitedd (@TUnlimitedd) August 24, 2025

15 overs to go in the first innings, and the Proteas have finally broken the opening partnership! 🙌🇿🇦

Australia is 256/1 after 35 overs. 🏏 #WozaNawe pic.twitter.com/R52PTZAdYm

— Proteas Men (@ProteasMenCSA) August 24, 2025

Head - 142 (103).
Green - 118* (55).
Marsh - 100 (106).
Carey - 50* (37).

AUSTRALIA POSTED 431/2 AGAINST SOUTH AFRICA. 🔥 pic.twitter.com/6yWG6Cxg9Y

— ABD (@FAheemAli_14) August 24, 2025

Head 142, Green 118*, Marsh 100, Carey 50*: Australia smash 431/2. Rampage. 🇦🇺🔥 pic.twitter.com/nsCJYcmSML

— Chris Felix (@ChrisFeliii) August 24, 2025

HUNDRED FOR CAMERON GREEN FROM JUST 47 BALLS...!!!! 🥶🔥

- Second Fastest Hundred by an Australian in ODI History, One of the Iconic Knocks ever, Brutal Ball striking at its best by the future. pic.twitter.com/dcfYI9W8GK

— Johns. (@CricCrazyJohns) August 24, 2025

Cameron Green turned down an easy single and then went 6, 6, 6! 😱 #AUSvSA pic.twitter.com/voNCrHoZcV

— cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) August 24, 2025

Travis Head - 142(103)
Cameron Green - 118*(55)
Mitchell Marsh - 100(106)
Alex Carey - 50*(37)

AUSTRALIA POSTED 431/2 FROM 50 OVERS AGAINST SOUTH AFRICA - Their Second highest total in ODI History. pic.twitter.com/VMChpSul8s

— Johns. (@CricCrazyJohns) August 24, 2025

In the third and final ODI of the home series against South Africa, the Australian top-order batters thrashed all the Proteas bowlers to manage the first innings total of 431/2 in 50 overs. During that unforgettable innings, the Australian centurion top-order batters rewrote the rare ODI record.

While Australia have already lost the series, as the visitors are leading the series by 2-0 before the last game of the ODI series at Mackay, the hosts captain Mitchell Marsh chose to bat first in the last ODI. 

Travis Head, Mitchell Marsh, and Cameron Green scored centuries for Australia

Australian openers Travis Head and captain Mitchell Marsh smashed a 250-run partnership for the first wicket, which was Australia's fifth-highest opening partnership and the highest opening partnership for any team against South Africa. Head completed his seventh ODI century in 80 balls, and Marsh recorded his fourth ODI century in 105 balls. 

With the help of 17 fours and five sixes, Head scored 142 runs off 103 balls. Meanwhile, skipper Marsh scored 100 off 106 balls with the help of six fours and five sixes. 

For the unbroken third wicket, Cameron Green and Alex Carey slammed a 164-run partnership from just 82 balls. Green slammed his maiden ODI century in just 47 balls to record the second-fastest ODI century by an Australian cricketer. He scored 118 not out off 55 balls, where the right-handed batter slammed six fours and eight sixes. On the other hand, Carey scored 50 not out off 37 balls with seven fours. 

[WATCH] Stunning crowd catch of Mitchell Marsh during AUS vs SA 3rd ODI as video goes viral

All three top batters scored centuries in an ODI innings

It was the second time in ODI history that all the top three batters scored centuries in an ODI innings. The first such incident happened during the 2015 Johannesburg ODI, when the top three South African batters created history for the first time against the West Indies. After openers Hashim Amla and Rilee Rossouw scored 153 not out and 128 runs, skipper AB de Villiers slammed the fastest ODI hundred and scored 149 runs in just 44 balls. 

While all the top four Aussie batters scored 50 or more runs in the innings, it was the 23rd time in ODI history that experienced all four top batters with 50+ runs in the same ODI innings. 

Former India player Aakash Chopra said that Cameron Green could be the most expensive player in the IPL 2026 auction. He added that the former Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) and Mumbai Indians (MI) all-rounder has been scoring runs since returning from injury and may start bowling soon.

Green scored 35 runs off 13 balls in Australia’s 17-run win in the first T20I against South Africa in Darwin on Sunday, August 10. However, he managed only nine runs off seven balls in Australia’s 53-run loss in the second game at the same venue two days later. In a video on his YouTube channel ‘Aakash Chopra,’ the former India opener said that Green could be the most valuable player at the IPL 2026 auction.

Cameron Green Could Be the Most Expensive Player

Aakash Chopra said, "Cameron Green, I feel he could be the most expensive player in the auction. Since he has returned from injury, his batting form is already very good. He is not ready to bowl yet, but he will start bowling at some point. Right now, he is batting in the top order because he is not bowling."

He added, "If he starts bowling and considering his batting ability, he could actually break the bank. People will spend a lot of money on him. That’s what I feel. So this auction could be in Cameron Green’s name."

Cameron Green had opted out of the IPL 2025 auction due to injury. In IPL 2024, he scored 255 runs in 12 innings for RCB at a strike rate of 143.25. He also took 10 wickets in 35.1 overs with an economy rate of 8.61.

Mumbai Indians’ Overseas Player Decisions

Chopra also noted that Cameron Green, Dewald Brevis, Tristan Stubbs, and Tim David were all part of the Mumbai Indians squad in IPL 2023 but are no longer in the team. He said, "The Mumbai Indians manage players carefully, but I am going to name four players they had but let go. Could the overseas player management have been better? They had Dewald Brevis, Tristan Stubbs, Tim David, and Cameron Green—all in one year. These four players were together in the squad, and now not even one is there."

Australia’s versatile all-rounder Cameron Green played a key role for Mumbai Indians during the 2023 IPL season. His contributions with both bat and ball helped the team in several crucial moments, showcasing his all-around skills.

In 2024, Green made a switch to Royal Challengers Bengaluru, where he continued to impress. Throughout the season, he delivered some strong performances, proving to be an important asset for the RCB squad. His ability to adapt quickly to the new team environment highlighted his professionalism and cricketing intelligence.

Green’s consistent form with both bat and ball has made him a valuable player in the IPL. His experience in different roles, whether stabilizing the innings or taking crucial wickets, adds depth to his team’s lineup and makes him a vital figure for RCB moving forward.

See Also: Top 3 contenders to replace Rohit Sharma as India’s ODI opener for upcoming 2027 World Cup

Cameron Green can be Valuable Player in Auction:

Cameron Green featured in 29 IPL matches over the 2023 and 2024 seasons, amassing 707 runs and taking 16 wickets. Unfortunately, injuries forced him to sit out the entire IPL 2025 season, and he did not enter the mega auction that year.

Looking ahead, Cameron Green is eligible for the IPL 2026 mini auction. Australian all-rounders have always been highly sought after in the IPL, and Green is no exception. His proven track record, combined with his ability to bowl fast and hit powerful shots, makes him a valuable player. Teams will likely be eager to secure his services as he brings both batting firepower and bowling versatility to any squad.

Green can be Choice for Various Teams:

Several IPL teams are on the lookout for a reliable all-rounder. Here are three franchises that should consider bidding for Cameron Green in the upcoming auction. His ability to contribute both with the bat and ball makes him a valuable asset, and these teams could benefit greatly from adding his skills to strengthen their lineup for the next season.

• Kolkata Knight Riders Eyeing Cameron Green as Key Target

At the IPL 2025 mega auction, Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) invested ₹23.75 crore to acquire Indian all-rounder Venkatesh Iyer. However, Iyer couldn’t live up to expectations, scoring just 142 runs in 11 matches during the season. His performance fell short of the high price paid, leaving the team searching for stronger contributions from their all-rounder lineup.

KKR may consider releasing Venkatesh Iyer and searching for a new all-rounder who can bat up front and bowl pace. Cameron Green fits perfectly. Known as a dependable match-winner, Green would thrive on the flat Eden Gardens pitch. Combining Sunil Narine, Andre Russell, and Cameron Green in the batting lineup would pose a serious challenge for any bowling attack, making Green a valuable addition for KKR.

• Chennai Super Kings

Chennai Super Kings (CSK), five-time IPL champions, had a disappointing 2025 season, finishing last with only four wins in 14 matches. The team backed players like Deepak Hooda, Rahul Tripathi, and Vijay Shankar, but they all failed to perform consistently. As a result, CSK is expected to release these players ahead of IPL 2026.

Additionally, Ravichandran Ashwin, who was signed for ₹9.75 crore, has reportedly requested to be released before the next season. This move could free up a significant portion of the budget, allowing CSK to target a top-quality all-rounder like Cameron Green. Known for his skills with both bat and ball, Green fits perfectly into MS Dhoni’s strategy of building a strong team around versatile all-rounders, making him a prime candidate to join CSK in IPL 2026.

• Rajasthan Royals

Rajasthan Royals (RR) faced backlash from fans for overlooking top all-rounders in the last auction. While the team invested heavily in specialist batsmen and bowlers, their squad included just one dedicated all-rounder. This lack of balance in the lineup raised concerns about their overall team composition and depth ahead of the upcoming IPL season.

Reports suggest that Sanju Samson has requested to be released by Rajasthan Royals. If true, this would free up significant funds for RR ahead of the mini auction. With the extra budget, they could target a top all-rounder like Cameron Green, who could fill the impactful role similar to Shane Watson’s tenure with the Royals from 2008 to 2015.

Lord’s, London, June 11, 2025-the World Test Championship Final 2025 erupted into life as South Africa’s Kagiso Rabada produced a blazing double-strike in the seventh over, dismissing Australia’s Usman Khawaja and Cameron Green. Opting to bowl on grey skies, South Africa relied on their pace spearhead, and Rabada did not disappoint. Removing Usman Khawaja for a 20-ball duck, he edged a length ball that had straightened slightly to David Bedingham in the slips, and four balls later, dismissed Cameron Green for 4. Green nicked an away-shaping delivery to Aiden Markram, leaving Australia on 12/2 in the WTC Final 2025.

Rabada's blistering spell stirred up the Lord's crowd and created a dominating tone for South Africa. The 30-year-old, returning from a doping-related ban, proved his expertise in English conditions, where he has 15 wickets in three Tests at 19.38. His initial successes against a powerful Australian team, who claimed the WTC in 2023, reinforced his big-match player profile and South Africa's aspirations to break a 27-year ICC trophy dry spell.

South Africa's decision to bowl first proved to be a tactical risk that paid off. They came into the match with a pace attack led by Rabada and featuring Lungi Ngidi and Marco Jansen. Australia was rattled early; now Marnus Labuschagne and Steve Smith will be trying to rebuild the innings, with Labuschagne and Smith at the crease. Given the early seam movement on offer, there is no reason why the match shouldn't offer a fascinating five days' play.

Australia’s Fightback

As time goes on, Australia are 29/2 after 3 overs, with Labuschagne and Smith batting, trying to stop the slide. Rabada’s relentless pressure, backed by Ngidi’s pace, keeps South Africa in control, but we know from Australia's batting depth they are capable of scoring plenty of runs.

Watch the video here

KAGISO RABADA GETTING BOTH KHAWAJA AND GREEN IN AN OVER. pic.twitter.com/tGGGfwYVWV

— Mufaddal Vohra (@mufaddal_vohra) June 11, 2025

Also Read: SA vs AUS, WTC 2025 Final: Toss result and playing 11s, umpires list and pitch report

The game is in the balance, as South Africa hopes to make the most of their initial control and Australia tries to strike back. With clear skies predicted, the WTC Final is in line for a heart-stopping conclusion, as both sides battle for the coveted mace.

Current Score: Australia 29/2 (13 overs)—Marnus Labuschagne 17*, Steve Smith 5*; Kagiso Rabada 2/9.

Kane Williamson is not playing in the IPL this year, but the New Zealand veteran still has a sharp eye on the future of cricket. During a recent chat on the Bombay Sport Exchange show by the Times of India, he was asked a pretty simple question: who are the next big stars of world cricket?

And as always, Kane gave a calm, thoughtful answer. He named five young players who, in his opinion, could define the next era of international cricket once the likes of himself, Kohli, Smith, and Root move on.

Here’s the list he gave, and it’s a solid mix of flair, form, and future potential:

• Yashasvi Jaiswal
• Shubman Gill
• Rachin Ravindra
• Harry Brook
• Cameron Green

Let’s take a look at why each name was cut.

ALSO SEE: T20 Mumbai League ropes in star players; Iconic batter becomes League's face

Yashasvi Jaiswal – The Breakout Star from India

Yashasvi’s rise has been nothing short of spectacular. At just 22, he’s already racked up nearly 1,800 runs in Test cricket at an average above 50, and he’s done it with flair. His aggressive strokeplay and fearless attitude make him a perfect fit for modern-day cricket, but it’s his calm under pressure that truly sets him apart. He’s also part of India’s T20 World Cup-winning squad and looks like someone who’s just getting started. ODI debut? Still pending. But it’s only a matter of time.

Shubman Gill – The Future Captain in the Making

Shubman Gill carries the aura of a future Indian captain, mature, composed, and incredibly consistent. With a classical technique and an eye for big runs, he’s already proven himself across formats. Nearly 2,800 runs in ODIs at an average close to 60, five Test centuries, and a cool head in high-pressure situations make him one of the most complete young batters in the game today. Whether it’s the IPL or a tense Test match overseas, Gill rarely looks out of place.

Rachin Ravindra – New Zealand’s Next Big All-Rounder

A true all-format asset, Rachin Ravindra has quietly become a key figure in New Zealand’s plans. He’s already notched up over 1,000 Test runs, including a mammoth 240, and can bowl handy left-arm spin. What makes Rachin special is his adaptability. he can bat anywhere in the order, adjust to any format, and still find ways to make an impact. Kane Williamson sees in him a mirror of the dependable Kiwi spirit.

Harry Brook – England’s Bazball Poster Boy

Harry Brook is redefining what aggressive Test batting looks like. Just 24 Tests in and he’s already closing in on 2,300 runs at an outrageous average close to 60. Eight centuries. A top score of 317. And he’s just been handed England’s white-ball captaincy. Brook is bold, fearless, and thrives under pressure, a perfect match for England’s high-octane approach under the Bazball banner. If there’s one player who looks like he could rewrite Test cricket's norms, it’s Brook.

Cameron Green – Australia’s Powerhouse in Progress

Cameron Green’s numbers may not scream superstar just yet, but the potential is unmistakable. He’s an old-school Test all-rounder with modern-day power over 1,300 runs in Tests, a top score of 174 not out, and the ability to crank it up with the ball. Injuries have slowed him down a bit, but when fully fit, Green is one of the most impactful players Australia has. Think of him as the long-term engine room of Aussie cricket.

ALSO SEE: Moment of the Match: Jaiswal to Starc – 'Very Well Bowled, Legend'

Still In the Game, Just Off the Field

Even though Kane went unsold in the last IPL auction, he’s stayed involved with the league through commentary and mentoring. He spent time at a local academy in Mumbai recently, sharing his experience with young players. When asked which shot he’d love to borrow from another batter, he smiled and picked Virat Kohli’s wristy leg-side flick. A classy choice, and a nice nod to a fellow great.

Williamson will be joining the Karachi Kings in the Pakistan Super League later this month. After that, he’s expected back in New Zealand colours for a T20I tri-series in July featuring Zimbabwe and South Africa. Kane’s picks for the next Fab Five show he’s been watching closely and thinking ahead. These five have already made their mark, but with someone like Williamson backing them, the spotlight is only going to get brighter.