In a recent analysis that has sparked widespread discussion among cricket enthusiasts, former Indian coach Ravi Shastri and ex-England captain Michael Vaughan shared their thoughts on one of the most debated topics in the cricketing world: the greatest Indian batters of all time. With their extensive experience and deep knowledge of the game, both Shastri and Vaughan have offered their insights into who should occupy the top spots in this prestigious list.

Their picks have ignited conversations across social media and news platforms, with fans and experts alike eager to hear the reasoning behind their selections. The two cricketing legends have provided valuable perspectives on how these players have shaped Indian cricket and their influence on the global stage.

Ravi Shastri’s trio of legends

Shastri, with his deep-rooted knowledge of Indian cricket, names Sachin Tendulkar as his number one. Tendulkar’s record-breaking career, including his 100 international centuries, earns him the top spot. Shastri emphasizes Tendulkar’s unmatched technique and adaptability, which made him a formidable opponent in any format or condition.

“Sachin Tendulkar, for sheer longevity. When you play 200 Test matches you’re 24 years in the game you know you’ve got more runs than anybody else. I saw greatness from 22 yards there just the movement in the crease the balance, the power in his shots that he played on the up was something fabulous to see and you go across formats not many people get a 100 International hundreds in fact he’s the only one to get 100 International hundreds, special,” said Shastri on Fox Cricket.

Coming in second for Shastri is Sunil Gavaskar, known for his defensive prowess and ability to bat long innings. Gavaskar’s contribution to Indian cricket in its formative years in Test cricket, with 34 centuries, cements his place among the greats.

“I think the best opening batter I’ve seen in Test match cricket, Sunil Gavaskar. I say that because I mean this is the pre helmet era, to play the best quicks in the world a watertight technique. You could sleep in the dressing room if Sunny got into the 30s. Once he gets in, he would convert and he was a terrific player in all conditions and especially Test match cricket, I mean special, absolutely special,” added Shastri.

Shastri rounds out his list with Virat Kohli, highlighting his aggressive approach, consistent performance, and leadership that has redefined Indian cricket in recent times. Kohli’s records across all formats are a testament to his skill, fitness, and determination.

“I think the most dominant batter of the last decade across all formats of the game. I think Virat Kohli for me because just his ability to dominate attacks world class attacks and uh for that period of time and he’s not finished yet,” Shastri added further.

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Michael Vaughan’s pick of India’s batting elite

Vaughan echoed Shastri’s sentiment by placing Tendulkar at the top. Vaughan lauded Tendulkar for his technical brilliance and the vast array of records he holds, particularly his ability to evolve with the game.

“Number one Sachin Tendulkar. I think again across all the formats he was just a joy to watch play he just had so much control on front foot back foot in defense in attack and Yorkshire. We take credit for Sachin, he came over when he was 19 or 20 he had a tile beer or two and look at what he produced a magnificent player,” said Vaughan.

Kohli finds a place in Vaughan’s list as well, recognized for his run-chasing ability, game-changing performances, and his impact on the global stage. His leadership has coincided with India’s rise in world cricket.

“Virat Kohli. I mean Test match cricket he’s wonderful he’s not been in that the greatest of form of late but over the last 10 years he’s just been able to dominate all the different bowlers around the world in all the different conditions and in my opinion he’s the greatest chaser in white cricket. I don’t think there’s been a better player that can make the chase look so easy he just seems to have the ability to read the situation not exactly the kind of the equation that he needs to get to, yeah he’s my number two Virat Kohli,” added Vaughan.

Surprisingly, Vaughan includes young prodigy Yashasvi Jaiswal, pointing towards the future. Jaiswal’s recent performances in domestic and international cricket have showcased a talent that Vaughan believes will define the next decade of Indian cricket, highlighting his technique, temperament, and potential.

“My number three is a young player that I’ve only seen for two years and that’s Yashasvi Jaiswal he’s in my top three that I’ve seen. This young player already is a superstar across all the formats and I’m convinced over the next 10 years he’s going to be the global superstar not just in India but across the globe in all the different formats 2020 cricket, 50 over cricket, Test match cricket, the IPL, we’re going to see so much of this young player and I’ve seen enough in two years to put him in my top three,” Vaughan added further.

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