5 most underrated batsmen in world cricket right now
Overshadowed by their more illustrious counterparts, some batsmen just find a way to keep the scoreboard ticking even if they don't always get the credit they deserve. Each team has its set of established superstars.
For most countries, including India, Australia, New Zealand, South Africa and England, it is their captain who also leads from the front with the bat. But there are other batsmen who contribute to their sides' victories but don't get the praise that their performances deserve.
So here are the 5 most underrated batsmen in world cricket right now:
#5 Asad Shafiq
Whenever there is talk about the best middle-order batsmen in Tests, there are the usual suspects from England, Australia, India, New Zealand and South Africa. Even when it comes to Pakistan, the likes of Misbah-ul-Haq, Babar Azam and Sarfraz Ahmed draw plenty of plaudits when compared to Asad Shafiq.
The unassuming right-hander is one of Pakistan's integral pillars in Tests and yet continues to fly under the radar. Tasked with the responsibility of batting at No.6 and marshalling the tail, he holds the world record for most centuries (9) at No.6 in Tests. An average of almost 40 might not make for great reading but considering the fact that he bats with the tail predominantly or is putting out fires, they look much better.
With the retirement of Misbah and Younis, the 31-year-old has shuffled up the order but remains one of the most underrated batsmen in the side. Yet, he continues to pile on the runs irrespective of whether he is appreciated for them or not.