#2 Sanath Jayasuriya (Sri Lanka)
If New Zealand redefined the role of the modern-day opener with Mark Greatbatch, Sanath Jayasuriya perfected the character with his uninhibited explosiveness. A batsman whose true worth cannot be encompassed by sheer numbers, the Sri Lankan maestro whiplashed bowling attacks across the globe by leaving no margin for error. Apart from his belligerent batting, he could also double-up as a reliable spinner in the middle overs.
At his pomp, he held the record for the fastest century as well as the quickest half-century in ODIs. Both knocks came in the 1996 Singer Cup against a strong Pakistani side. More often than not, those sturdy forearms of his left bowlers in a perpetual state of helplessness.
Statistics: 13430 runs from 445 matches at an average of 32.36 and strike-rate of 91.20; 323 wickets at an average of 36.75 and economy-rate of 4.78 with 4 five-wicket hauls
#3 Virat Kohli (India)
Armed with the killer instinct that very few batsmen have had in the game’s history, Virat Kohli has already etched a distinctive spot for himself in ODI cricket. If the pressure of a run chase presents the most debilitating challenge, he is akin to a resourceful hunter ruthlessly pursuing his target.
Only two of his 17 centuries while batting second have ended in defeats. The vicious 86-ball 133, which helped India chase down 321 in 36.4 overs against Sri Lanka in Hobart, perches on top of an enviable collection.
Having taken up the mantle of captaincy in the 50-over format too, Kohli will be looking to further his phenomenal rise as a dependable batsman. All of 28, the world is already at his feet. If he maintains his form and fitness, the future promises to be as fulfilling.
Statistics: 7755 runs from 179 matches at an average of 53.11 and strike-rate of 90.76 with 27 centuries and 39 fifties
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