Cricket’s modern era is enriched by extraordinary talents whose achievements and charisma have earned them legendary status while still active. In 2025, these living legends are not only scoring runs and taking wickets—they’re leading teams, inspiring fans, and redefining the thrill of cricket. Here are the key figures dominating the scene today:
1. Virat Kohli (India)
A modern batting phenomenon, Kohli continues to break records and anchor India’s chase-heavy strategy. As of May 2025, he’s scored 51 ODI centuries, became the fastest to 14,000 ODI runs, and earned multiple Player of the Tournament titles in ICC events en.wikipedia.org. His unwavering consistency, especially under pressure, cements his position as a global icon.
2. Babar Azam (Pakistan)
Captaining Pakistan across formats, Babar’s elegant yet powerful style has earned respect worldwide. With averages over 45 in Tests and 55 in ODIs, he is praised as Pakistan’s "batting legend" and a leader both on and off the pitch . His calmness and class mirror that of top-tier greats.
3. Pat Cummins (Australia)
Australia’s pace spearhead and Test captain, Cummins reached 300 Test wickets at Lord’s while delivering a match-winning 6‑28 in the 2025 World Test Championship Final theaustralian.com.au. His lethal strike rate rivals historical greats, signifying his elite status.
4. Temba Bavuma (South Africa)
Bavuma broke barriers as South Africa’s first black African Test centurion and led the Proteas to their 2025 WTC title, ending a long ICC drought crickettimes.com+5theaustralian.com.au+5timesofindia.indiatimes.com+5news.abplive.com+5wclegends.uk+5timesofindia.indiatimes.com+5. His story of humility, resilience, and triumph has made him both an inspirational leader and cultural icon.
5. Glenn Maxwell (Australia)
Known as “The Big Show,” Maxwell continues to light up limited-overs cricket. He scored five T20I centuries (equalling Rohit Sharma) and delivered explosive match-enders like his 104 off 48 vs. India en.wikipedia.org. Though recently retiring from ODIs, his T20 presence remains formidable.
6. Shaheen Afridi (Pakistan)
Standing a towering 6'6", Shaheen is Pakistan's premier left-arm fast bowler and ex-T20I skipper. He won the 2021 Sir Garfield Sobers Trophy (ICC Player of the Year) and led Lahore Qalandars to three consecutive PSL titles en.wikipedia.org—a stellar record at only 25.
7. Chris Gayle (West Indies)
The ultimate T20 destroyer, Gayle holds triple-century and T20I hundred records and is the only player with 1,000+ sixes in T20s indiatimes.com+15en.wikipedia.org+15thetimes.co.uk+15. Though past his prime, his presence still reverberates across leagues worldwide.
8. Rohit Sharma (India)
Rohit remains one of the greatest ODI openers and captains. He holds the record for highest individual ODI score (264), most T20I sixes, and has led India to multiple ICC trophies . Having retired from T20Is, he continues to anchor India’s white-ball side.
What Makes Them Legendary?
Consistent Match-Winners: Each of these cricketers delivers in crucial moments—be it Kohli chasing, Cummins in ICC finals, or Maxwell in tight T20 chases.
Leadership and Culture: As captains or senior figures (e.g., Bavuma, Babar), they’re transforming team ethos and inspiring new generations.
Global Impact: Their reputations transcend national borders: Kohli's mental health advocacy, Bavuma’s cultural representation, and Afridi’s success in franchise leagues.
Records and Milestones: From personal bests to leadership trophies, they keep rewriting cricket history.
The Future of Legend-Making
Legacy-building: Though some are nearing the end of their international careers (Rohit, Maxwell), their global influence lives on in leagues and academies.
Next-Gen Transition: Players like Shubman Gill are taking over, influenced by these legends’ commitment, humility, and style livecricket.ggthetimes.co.uk+1livecricket.gg+1.
Enduring Fame: Social media and franchises ensure that every iconic Kiron or celebration amplifies their legend.
Final Thoughts
These living legends define modern cricket—not just through records and runs, but through leadership, resilience, and global resonance. They stand as pillars of today's game, while inspiring the next generation to dream bigger. Whether you're searching for "2025 cricket legends" or "best modern cricketers," this elite group will continue shaping the sport’s future.