5 most influential wicket-keepers of the modern era

Cricket is not short of uncertainties. But the phrase 'catches win matches' is a common gospel in the game. And when it comes to catches, you can't help but talk about wicket-keepers.

Since the game's invention, there has always been more attraction around the art of batting and bowling but very less curiosity around the art of wicket-keeping. Towards the end of the 1990s and beginning of the 2000s, a special breed of wicket-keepers arrived onto the international stage. Their innovative and awe-inspiring athleticism added a whole new dimension to the game and subsequently inspired the next generation of players.

Let's look at five of the most influential wicket-keepers of the modern era.

#5 Brendon McCullum

Brendon McCullum is undoubtedly the most destructive batsman to have come out from New Zealand. While he has always been known for destroying bowling attacks right from the start of his career, many haven't credited him for his wicket-keeping skills. At a certain point in time, he was really quick behind the wickets and took many blinders against the likes of Shane Bond.

The former Kiwi skipper effected a combined total of 453 dismissals in his entire career. Out of those, 179 have come in Tests, 242 in ODIs and the remaining 32 in T20Is. He was always seen diving behind the stumps and grabbing even the faintest of edges.

McCullum's inspired captaincy took New Zealand to their first ever World Cup final in 2015. As a batsman with over 6000 runs in both Tests and ODIs, his immense contribution to New Zealand cricket was noticeable.