The International Cricket Council (ICC) has revealed the newest members of the Hall of Fame, announcing seven legendary cricketers from past and current generations and formats. ICC Chair Jay Shah welcomed the new members to the Hall of Fame at a special ceremony in London, which was held at the iconic Abbey Road Studios.

ICC Chair Jay Shah welcomed the new inductees, saying, "Through the ICC Hall of Fame, we pay tribute to the finest players the game has seen, individuals whose remarkable careers have shaped cricket's legacy and inspired generations," Shah said.

“This year, we are privileged to induct seven truly outstanding individuals into this prestigious group. On behalf of the ICC, I extend my heartfelt congratulations to each of them and hope they cherish this well-deserved recognition as a defining moment in their cricketing journey.”

The seven inductees are:

Matthew Hayden

A dominant figure in world cricket, Hayden played 103 Tests and scored 8,625 runs at an average of 50.73. He also featured in 161 ODIs, amassing 6,133 runs at an average of 43.80, and added 308 runs from nine T20Is.

Matthew Hayden was a dominant opening batsman who consistently beat the world's best bowlers. With 30 Test centuries and a greater than 50 average, his supremacy in red-ball cricket was evident. Just as devastating in ODIs, Hayden topped the run charts in the 2007 ICC World Cup with three hundreds. His contributions saw Australia win two World Cups in a golden period. After retirement, he became widely respected as a cricket commentator. His ICC Hall of Fame induction is a testament to his monumental contribution to the game.

"The ICC Hall of Fame includes many of my heroes of yesteryear as well as contemporaries whom I admired and enjoyed competing against," he said.

"Each of these players gave something to the game in their own way. It is incredible to be recognized along with them."

Hashim Amla

One of South Africa's most elegant and consistent batters, Amla accumulated 9,282 runs in 124 Tests and 8,113 in 181 ODIs, while maintaining an impressive 49.46 average in ODIs.

Hashim Amla exemplified elegance and reliability at the crease for South Africa. His beautiful cover drives and wristy flicks off the leg side were hallmarks of a productive career. He became the first South African to achieve a triple hundred in Tests and concluded with 55 overseas tons. Amla's consistency assisted South Africa in reaching the No. 1 Test ranking while he was on the side. He was just as impressive in ODIs, scoring freely in all conditions. His induction recognizes a player who added class and composure to all forms.

"It is an honor to be inducted into the ICC Hall of Fame, especially alongside Graeme," Amla said.

"The Hall of Fame includes some of the most celebrated players in the history of cricket, all of whom have big achievements. Such recognition feels surreal, and I am really thankful."

MS Dhoni

India’s most successful white-ball captain, Dhoni played 90 Tests, 350 ODIs, and 98 T20Is, scoring over 17,000 international runs and effecting over 800 dismissals.

MS Dhoni’s cricket journey is defined by iconic finishes, tactical brilliance, and historic triumphs. He led India to three ICC titles: the 2007 T20 World Cup, 2011 ODI World Cup, and 2013 Champions Trophy. Known for his finishing abilities and calm demeanor, Dhoni mastered white-ball cricket with unmatched precision. His innovation behind the stumps set a new benchmark for wicketkeeping. From humble small-town roots to international fame, his legacy endures through generations. The ICC Hall of Fame now honors one of India's all-time great cricketers.

"It is an honor to be named in the ICC Hall of Fame, which recognizes the contributions of cricketers across generations and from all over the world," he said.

 "To have your name remembered alongside such all-time greats is a wonderful feeling. It is something that I will cherish forever."

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Graeme Smith

Smith led South Africa with grit, scoring 9,265 runs in 117 Tests and nearly 7,000 in ODIs. He is remembered as a strong captain and a dependable top-order batter.

Graeme Smith was a dashing and forceful opening batsman who accepted leadership at the age of 22. He led South Africa in a golden period, with authority as well as sustained batting performances. Smith played key roles in big wins and series victories across the world. His resilient frame of mind and capacity for motivating teammates ensured him a position as one of the best leaders in the contemporary game. He struck well in excess of a hundred despite captaincy pressures, creating a lasting legacy. The Hall of Fame acknowledges his twin excellence as player and captain.

"It feels amazing to be inducted into the ICC Hall of Fame alongside some legendary cricketers, all of whom have made significant contributions to the game in their own way," he said.

"This is also a proud moment for South Africa, as two of us have gotten recognition this year."

Daniel Vettori

The former New Zealand captain played 113 Tests and picked up 362 wickets while scoring 4,531 runs. He also claimed 305 wickets in ODIs and 38 in T20Is.

Daniel Vettori added astute left-arm spin to composed captaincy and solid lower-order batting. He is still one of only a handful to reach the double of 4,000 runs and 300 Test wickets. As captain, he led New Zealand to famous landmarks such as a Champions Trophy final appearance. Vettori was a thinking cricketer at all times, beating batters with flight and variation. He still remains involved in the game even after retirement as a coach. His ICC Hall of Fame induction recognizes both his ability and cricketing awareness.

"Looking at the past inductees of the ICC Hall of Fame, one can see the outstanding talent and contribution they made to the growth and popularity of the game," Vettori said.

"To gain recognition alongside them is simply overwhelming, and I can’t find words to describe the feeling."

Sana Mir

Pakistan's pioneer in women’s cricket, Sana took 151 wickets in 120 ODIs and 89 in 106 T20Is, becoming the first Pakistani woman in the Hall of Fame.

Sana Mir pioneered and transformed women's cricket in Pakistan by skill and leadership. A true match-winner, she compiled more than 200 international wickets and was instrumental in winning numerous games. Away from the game, she advocated for issues such as mental well-being and body image and became an inspiration to many. Her impact went beyond statistics, with the contribution to increasing the profile of women's cricket in her homeland. She demonstrated resilience in establishing a path for future generations. Her Hall of Fame induction is a moment of pride and history for Pakistan.

"From dreaming as a little girl that one day there would even be a women’s team in our country to now standing here, inducted among the very legends I idolized long before I ever held a bat or a ball—this is a moment I couldn’t have dared to imagine," she said.

"I am incredibly grateful for this honor and hope to give back to the sport in any way I can. I would like to take this opportunity to thank my teammates, coaches, and family for all their support over the years."

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Sarah Taylor

England’s star wicketkeeper-batter scored over 6,000 international runs and was involved in more than 230 dismissals across formats. Her contributions in major tournaments are widely celebrated.

Sarah Taylor was one of England's best wicketkeepers and top-order batters with style. Her rapid glovework, particularly stumpings down the leg side, raised the bar for women's cricket. Taylor was central to England's World Cup victories in 2009 and 2017, producing vital displays in the knockout stages. She struck a balance between flair and calm, leading the next generation of cricketers with courage. Her career also served to destigmatize mental ill health in sport. The Hall of Fame rightly recognizes her enduring legacy on and off the pitch.

"Being inducted into the ICC Hall of Fame is one of the best moments of my life and truly feels like a dream come true," Taylor said.

 "Women's cricket has been thriving in recent years, and receiving this award during such a significant time makes it even more special. I am grateful to the members of the ICC Hall of Fame selection panel for this recognition."

Cricket is undoubtedly the most followed sport worldwide, including India. Whenever a cricketing event takes place between major teams, including an ICC event, viewership breaks all sorts of records, while stadiums are packed with fans who are eager to see their favourite players perform.

Apart from their cricketing skills, cricketers are the centre of attraction for their good looks. In this piece, we discuss five cricketers who have attracted fans with their charming looks. The players mentioned in the list have millions of followers on social media due to their good looks, apart from their playing style. Their looks make them a famous public personality. We discuss these cricketers in detail:

1.Virat Kohli (India)

The modern-day great broke everyone's hearts after announcing retirement from test cricket, but the 36-year-old remains at the top regarding his looks, like his batting. His charisma makes him a fan favourite, while his charming appearance makes his fans go crazy. The youth has emulated Kohli's stylish hairstyles. Virat Kohli's dressing sense has always made him look unique. When it comes to his followers on Instagram, he is the most followed personality.

2.Yuvraj Singh (India)

Yuvraj Singh's dashing looks combined with his charismatic playing style and appearance, made him an altogether different personality in the sporting circles. The former India batter and two-time World Cup winner's stylish appearance made him the most popular figure. His stylish dressing attracted big advertising brands to sign deals with him. 

3.Daniel Vettori (New Zealand)

The former bespectacled New Zealand cricketer's looks made him look more like an actor rather than a sportsman. Vettori's smile and his elegant features were unmatchable, combined with his smart walking style, made him a favourite not only amongst the female fans but also the male fans. His sparkling eyes made his charming presence even more elegant.

4.Brett Lee (Australia)

The former Australian pacer's graceful and elegant walk made him the most lovable sporting personalities, combined with his dimpled smile that was adored by female fans. His smile reflected his persona, while his smart personality and flamboyance attracted even those who didn't follow cricket. His looks and stylish hairstyle helped him get offers to act in movies.

5. Alistair Cook (England)

Undoubtedly amongst the most stylish and handsome English cricketers of all time, Alistair Cook is considered amongst the most stylish personalities in England. Cook is the highest run scorer for England in test cricket. The former England skipper's personality is the topic of discussion even outside the sporting circuit due to his elegant and smart looks.

Australia's bowling coach Daniel Vettori will leave the team during the First Test against India in Perth to attend the IPL Auction in Saudi Arabia as Sunrisers Hyderabad Coach.

The Test will start on 22 November at Optus Stadium in Perth meanwhile, IPL Auction is scheduled on November 24-25 in Jeddah which has caused conflict for the three IPL coaches - Vettori, Ricky Ponting, and Justin Langer, who are in Perth for coaching or commentary roles.

Daniel Vettori is one of the few cricket coaches who holds multiple key roles simultaneously. He holds a permanent assistant role with the International team. He is also the full-time head coach of the IPL team Sunrisers Hyderabad and the head coach of the Birmingham Phoenix in The Hundred.

Vettori has been working as Australia's bowling coach for all three formats since 2022 working under Head Coach Andrew McDonald. Cricket Australia values Daniel Vettori highly and allows him to take on franchise coaching roles alongside his commitments with the men's national team.

Cricket Australia supports Daniel Vettori holding multiple coaching roles at a time

Australia team spokesperson said, "We are very supportive of Dan's role as Head Coach of Sunrisers Hyderabad. Dan will complete the final preparation for the first Test before attending the IPL auction. He will then be with the team for the remainder of the Border Gavaskar Trophy."

Prioritizing the IPL auction over a Test match, along with scheduling it in Saudi Arabia during an Australia-India Test, reflects the changing priorities in modern cricket. Ricky Ponting and Justin Langer who work as commentators for Channel Seven, will also miss the First Test match to attend the IPL auction as head coaches of Punjab Kings and Lucknow Super Giants, respectively.

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Vettori has missed certain series in recent years due to his franchise commitments with temporary coaches brought in to assist the team. This will be the first time Vettori leaves midway through a Test to attend the IPL auction. Last year, he managed to fulfill his duties with Australia against Pakistan before flying to India for the auction between matches.

CA is also looking to hire a full-time national pace bowling coach who will be able to handle the team when Vettori misses some tours.

Daniel Vettori performed his coaching duties before heading to the IPL Auction

Vettori was on deck with Australia's squad on their first day of training at the WACA ground on Monday. He worked with the bowling unit and then bowled left-arm orthodox deliveries to the batters to make them prepare to face Ravindra Jadeja in the Perth Test.

On Monday, Australia had two consultants working with their main coaching team: former Australia batter Michael Hussey and former allrounder Jim Allenby, who has ties with Glamorgan, Leicestershire, and Somerset and is based in Perth. Both worked with the team ahead of last summer's first Test against Pakistan and will stay with the squad throughout the week leading up to the upcoming Test match.

Australia's fielding coach Andre Borovec is currently in charge of the T20I side that is playing the three-match series against Pakistan which will conclude on Monday night. Both he and Josh Inglis, the stand-in T20 captain, will fly from Hobart to Perth tomorrow to join the Test squad.

When Vettori leaves, Cricket Australia's national development coach, Lachlan Stevens, who previously coached Australia A against India A and works with the Under-19 team, will fly into Perth to provide additional support for the squad.

In a surprising turn of events in IPL 2024, there has been a change in captaincy mid-season. Such changes are not uncommon in the IPL, highlighting how crucial leadership is in the intense atmosphere of the tournament. These things have already happened in history.

Here are the name captains who stepped down in the middle of an IPL season;

2021: David Warner – Kane Williamson

David Warner was a standout performer during his time with the Hyderabad-based franchise, Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH). As the captain, he clinched three orange caps and led SRH to victory in the IPL 2016, scoring a remarkable 848 runs. Warner’s dedication earned him the title of a true servant of the Orange Army.

However, in IPL 2021, SRH’s performance fell below expectations, with only one win in their first seven matches. This led to tensions between Warner and the SRH management, resulting in Kane Williamson being appointed as the new captain.

Despite the change in leadership, SRH’s fortunes didn’t improve, and they finished at the bottom of the table by the end of the season. Despite not being retained by SRH for the 2022 IPL season, Warner continued to show his support for the franchise from the stands, demonstrating his deep affection for the team. He was subsequently bought by Delhi Capitals for the 2022 IPL season.

2020: Dinesh Karthik – Eoin Morgan

Dinesh Karthik, known as one of the most successful wicketkeeper-batters in IPL history, joined Kolkata Knight Riders during the 2018 mega auction. With KKR in need of a captain, they turned to Karthik’s experience and leadership. He led the team from 2018 to 2020.

In the middle of IPL 2020, although KKR had won four of their first seven games, Karthik’s performance with the bat was lacking. Consequently, he chose to step down as captain. With Eoin Morgan, a World Cup-winning captain, in their squad, KKR appointed him as the new captain.

During IPL 2020, KKR’s performance was neither exceptional nor poor, finishing in fifth place with seven wins in 14 league matches. However, Morgan’s captaincy made a significant impact in the following season. Despite a slow start, KKR reached the finals, ultimately losing to Chennai Super Kings.

2018: Gautam Gambhir – Shreyas Iyer

Gautam Gambhir, KKR’s most successful captain with two trophies, decided to end his IPL journey with Delhi Daredevils ( then Delhi Capitals) before the 2018 IPL mega auction. As soon as he rejoined Delhi, he was appointed captain, which was a big boost for the team. However, despite Gambhir’s experience, Delhi struggled at the start, winning only one game out of their first six.

Consequently, Gambhir stepped down as captain. Shreyas Iyer, a young Indian batsman, took over the reins mid-season and led the team decently. Under Iyer’s captaincy, Delhi won four out of their next eight games, but couldn’t make it to the playoffs. Iyer continued as captain for two more seasons until he got injured before IPL 2021, leading to Rishabh Pant being named the new captain. In IPL 2022, Iyer was bought by KKR in the mega auction and appointed as their new skipper.

2013: Ricky Ponting – Rohit Sharma

In the 2013 IPL season, Ricky Ponting began as the captain of Mumbai Indians (MI). However, the team faced difficulties, losing four of their first five games. Seeing the struggle, Ponting chose to step down as captain, and MI appointed Rohit Sharma as the new skipper.

Rohit’s leadership brought a significant change to the team’s performance, ultimately leading them to clinch the trophy. This season also marked the last IPL for Sachin Tendulkar, and MI dedicated their win to the cricket legend. Rohit’s captaincy marked the start of a remarkable journey for MI. Under his leadership, they went on to win four more IPL titles, making Rohit the most successful captain in IPL history.

2012: Daniel Vettori – Virat Kohli

Despite starting each IPL season as favorites, the Royal Challengers Bangalore have yet to secure a title in their 14 seasons of participation. Despite reaching the final three times, including in 2011 under the leadership of Daniel Vettori, they have been unable to clinch the trophy. In the following season, RCB struggled, winning only two of their first five games.

In a bold move, young Indian batsman Virat Kohli was appointed captain midway through the season, despite still proving himself on the international stage. Though the team had mixed results under his leadership, finishing fifth on the points table, Kohli was subsequently appointed full-time captain in 2013. Over the next eight years, his captaincy had its ups and downs. The team’s breakthrough came in 2016, when they reached the IPL final for the third time.

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2009: Kevin Pietersen – Anil Kumble

In 2008, Rahul Dravid led the Royal Challengers Bangalore in the IPL. But after just one season, he decided to step down as captain. RCB then bought Kevin Pietersen for INR 1.55 million before the 2009 IPL season and made him captain right away. However, things didn’t go well for RCB under Pietersen’s leadership, losing four out of the first five games.

The team owner, Vijay Mallya, became impatient and replaced Pietersen as captain. Anil Kumble, the Indian leg-spinning expert, took over as captain. Under his leadership, RCB performed exceptionally, winning eight out of the next 10 matches and making it to the finals. Unfortunately, they lost to the Deccan Chargers in the final match.