5 players who left the game better than how they found it
Over the years, the game of cricket has dished out greats who even after they have bid adieu to the game have not been forgotten. This is due to their belligerence, their defiance, their astute cricket brains, their bull-minded approach and their superhuman abilities.These players inherited a game they loved, and by their own contributions left an indelible impression both on the game and on the general public. No wonder when they look back at their contributions they will be satisfied with their performances.The fans, on the other hand, will always remember these players with great fondness and will always miss their contributions. These have been impact players who have revolutionised the game and have handed over a game which is in a much more healthy state.There have been many players with the potential of grabbing the game by the scruff of the neck and changing it, for the better. Here, we look at five such players.
#1 Brendon McCullum
Brendon McCullum made his international debut against Australia in a One Day international and grabbed immediate attention with his brash and belligerent batting. A flamboyant wicket-keeper McCullum was almost earmarked for greatness.
However, nothing came easy for McCullum as the controversial sacking of Ross Taylor and the subsequent appointment of McCullum drew a clear wedge between two camps. The disastrous start to his tenure only widened the gap as New Zealand was shot out for 45 against South Africa in Cape Town.
However, New Zealand only blossomed under McCullum after this initial setback and made remarkable progress. The aggressive brand of cricket took off and it never toned down. This brand forced the cricket fraternity to sit up and take notice. They became a formidable unit, especially at home.
Under McCullum players like Trent Boult, Tim Southee, Martin Guptill and Kane Williamson blossomed into world beaters. New Zealand played the first ever World Cup final in 2015.