10 current cricketers who could go on to become good commentators
A slight modification to the popular adage goes thus – you can take cricketer out of the game, but you cannot take the game out of him. As with most sportsmen requiring peak, or near-peak physical prowess to remain competitive, cricketers have a shelf-life. Even the seemingly evergreen Sachin Tendulkar also retired, after two and a half decades of pure magic, crushing a billion hearts when he did. The only silver lining for fans is that most cricketers do tend to return, in a different avatar of course – some as head coaches, others specializing in their specific skill areas, and yet others hooking onto the concept of mentorship which has been a direct product of franchise cricket, on the upswing in recent times.The favourite, and perhaps the most lucrative, as a recent report suggests, option is to get back to the game in the form of a commentator, a dream job (a popular sports channel even hosted a reality show by that name to hunt for the commentating talent) for cricketers who are reluctant to move on from the game, which is usually the greatest love of their lives. In all fairness, ex-cricketers have done a wonderful job in the box, bringing in a touch of authenticity to the multiple opinions being aired during every match.This article evaluates the potential exuded by some of the current cricketers who could be top commentators post retirement. While personal opinion has been a key factor, I have also tried to break down the selection criteria across the following parameters:Voice – How pleasing is it to the earDiction – Overall command over the language and choice of wordsThought clarity – Ability to put forth his opinions clearly, without confusionKnowledge of the game – As the phrase suggestsExcitement generation potential – Likelihood of thrilling audiences with words and mannerisms
#10 Ryan ten Doeschate
Calm, composed, and deep-voiced, Ryan ten Doeschate would add value to any commentary team around the world. A thinking cricketer, his USP would definitely be the experience he has garnered playing with multiple franchises around the world. This should generate the attribute of open-minded thinking which is sometimes missing from the box, with rival commentators only keen on getting their own points proven right.
On the downside, a shy nature and a tendency to be diplomatic, could steal some of the excitement which audiences these days crave. A lack of experience in the longer formats of the game could also be a challenge.
Voice: 8/10
Diction: 8/10
Thought clarity: 7/10
Knowledge of the game: 7/10
Excitement generation potential: 5/10