Top 10 Underrated Cricketers of the Last Decade

Introduction

In cricket, some players shine in the spotlight while others work just as hard but don’t get the same attention. These underrated cricketers often play match-winning roles, consistently perform for their teams, and bring immense value—yet their efforts often go unnoticed. This article highlights ten such unsung heroes from the past decade (2015–2025), whose contributions deserve more appreciation.

1. Faf du Plessis (South Africa)

Consistent Performer, Reliable Captain

Faf du Plessis has been one of the most dependable batsmen for South Africa across all formats. While players like AB de Villiers and Hashim Amla got much of the praise, Faf quietly carried the middle order.

• Test stats (2015–2022): Over 3,500 runs at an average of 40+
• Key quality: Always stood up in pressure situations
• Leadership: Took over as captain during a difficult time

Despite scoring centuries in India, Australia, and England, he never received the global respect he deserved. His calmness, fitness, and technique made him a solid pillar for the Proteas.

2. Ross Taylor (New Zealand)

New Zealand’s Middle-Order Rock

Ross Taylor was the backbone of New Zealand’s middle order for over a decade, but often lived in the shadow of Kane Williamson and Brendon McCullum.

• ODI stats (2015–2022): Scored over 5,000 runs at an average of 50+
• Longevity: Played 450+ international matches
• Match-winner: Played crucial roles in 2015 and 2019 World Cups

Taylor’s powerful strokeplay, especially against spin, and his match-finishing ability make him one of the most underrated players in modern cricket history.

3. Jason Holder (West Indies)

All-Round Powerhouse

Jason Holder has been a silent warrior for the West Indies. Whether as a bowler, batsman, or captain, he always gave everything to his team.

• Test stats: 2,800+ runs and 150+ wickets
• ODIs: Over 2,000 runs and 150+ wickets
• Leadership: Took over captaincy during a rebuilding phase

He bowled long spells, rescued the team from collapses, and remained humble despite a heavy workload. Holder rarely makes headlines, but his stats prove his value.

4. Rahmat Shah (Afghanistan)

Afghanistan’s Unsung Hero

While Rashid Khan and Mohammad Nabi get global fame, Rahmat Shah is one of Afghanistan’s most consistent batters, especially in Tests and ODIs.

• First Afghan centurion in Tests
• ODI average: Consistently around 35–40
• Technique: Strong defense, good against spin and pace

Rahmat provides the stability that allows Afghanistan’s explosive players to flourish. He’s not flashy, but essential.

5. Tom Latham (New Zealand)

The Silent Wicketkeeper-Opener

Tom Latham has quietly become one of the most reliable openers and wicketkeepers in Test cricket. He’s not aggressive or flamboyant, but extremely consistent.

• Test stats: Over 5,000 runs at an average above 40
• Captaincy: Often led NZ in Williamson’s absence
• Role clarity: Can open in Tests and keep wickets in limited overs

Latham’s contributions are key to New Zealand’s top-order strength, yet he doesn’t get much media attention or global fanfare.

6. Dimuth Karunaratne (Sri Lanka)

Sri Lanka’s Reliable Test Opener

After the retirement of legends like Sangakkara and Jayawardene, Sri Lanka struggled. But Karunaratne kept the Test team going with his solid batting.

• Test stats (2015–2025): 6,000+ runs at a steady average
• Captaincy: Took over when team morale was low
• Gritty knocks: Scored hundreds in South Africa, Pakistan, and New Zealand

He’s a true team man, not involved in controversies, and always ready to grind for runs. Without him, Sri Lanka would have crumbled more often.

7. Mohammad Rizwan (Pakistan)

Always in the Shadow

Until 2020, Rizwan was often overlooked for Sarfaraz Ahmed. But when he got a chance, he grabbed it with both gloves—literally.

• T20I star: Most T20I runs in a calendar year (2021)
• Fitness icon: One of the fittest in the Pakistan team
• Work ethic: Keeps wickets, opens the batting, and plays selflessly

Even now, he doesn’t get the same attention as Babar Azam, but he’s one of Pakistan’s most valuable players in all formats.

8. Chris Woakes (England)

England’s Quiet Contributor

Chris Woakes has done everything—opening spells, batting at number 7 or 8, and winning crucial matches. Yet, he’s rarely seen as a “main man.”

• World Cup 2019: Crucial in semifinal and final
• Bowling: Accurate and effective, especially in English conditions
• Batting: Scored Test hundreds and saved games

When you think of England’s stars, names like Root, Stokes, or Archer come to mind. But Woakes’ contributions have often been match-defining.

9. Kusal Mendis (Sri Lanka)

Misunderstood Genius

Kusal Mendis has had an up-and-down career, but his talent is undeniable. Unfortunately, due to team instability and selection issues, he’s never fully bloomed in the public eye.

• Brilliant starts: Scored hundreds against Australia, India, and Bangladesh
• Young achiever: One of the youngest to 1,000 Test runs for Sri Lanka
• Versatility: Plays all formats, often under pressure

When he’s in form, he’s one of the best stroke-makers in Asia. But his inconsistent career has made people overlook his potential.

10. Rassie van der Dussen (South Africa)

Late Bloomer, Instant Impact

Rassie van der Dussen made his debut at a later age but quickly became one of South Africa’s most consistent limited-overs performers.

• ODI average: Over 45, one of the best among active players
• Temperament: Calm, composed, plays according to situation
• Key tournaments: Impressive performances in 2019 World Cup and 2021 T20 World Cup

Rassie is not flashy like de Kock or as vocal as Rabada, but he does his job—and does it well.

Why Are These Players Underrated?

Many of these cricketers go unnoticed despite giving their best every time they step onto the field. The term “underrated” doesn’t mean they’re less skilled—it simply means they don’t get the recognition or spotlight they truly deserve. There are several reasons behind this:

• Lack of media hype: Cricket coverage and promotions often focus on just a few big names. Players who aren’t constantly in advertisements, interviews, or social media campaigns don’t get as much public attention, even if they are performing just as well—or sometimes better.
• Playing for low-profile teams: Cricketers from countries like Afghanistan, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, or even the West Indies don’t get the same global platform as those from India, Australia, or England. As a result, even top performers from these teams are not celebrated worldwide.
• Consistency without drama: In today’s world, moments go viral. A dramatic last-ball six or an aggressive celebration often attracts more attention than a quiet 90-run knock or a steady bowling spell. Many underrated players perform consistently but without creating those flashy moments that fans share and remember.
• Playing under big shadows: Some cricketers are surrounded by larger-than-life teammates. For example, Rizwan played in the same era as Babar Azam. Ross Taylor shared the stage with McCullum and Williamson. Jason Holder played alongside flashy hitters like Andre Russell. This often means that their important contributions get sidelined.
• Lack of match-winning tags: Fans often celebrate players who single-handedly win matches. But cricket is a team sport, and many underrated players are the ones who build the base, anchor innings, or control the game quietly. Their efforts don’t always show up in the headlines but are crucial for team success.
• Short memory of fans and media: Cricket fans and news outlets tend to focus on recent performances. A player might do well for years but can quickly be forgotten after a few quiet games. This “what’s trending now” attitude causes consistent performers to slip out of the limelight.
• Not ‘marketable’ enough: Sadly, commercial appeal plays a big role in how popular a player becomes. Players who don’t have a unique style, big personality, or social media presence may be ignored by brands and sponsors—even if their stats are incredible.

Underrated doesn’t mean underperforming. It means these players bring immense value to their teams—through skill, determination, and consistency—but don’t always receive the praise, attention, or awards they deserve. Recognizing their efforts helps us understand the complete story of cricket, not just the glamorous parts. These are the cricketers who keep the engine running while others enjoy the spotlight.

Honorable Mentions

Some more names deserve a shout:

• Asad Shafiq (Pakistan): Key to many Test wins but often forgotten
• Ishant Sharma (India): Revived his Test career and bowled long spells for India’s overseas success
• Matt Henry (New Zealand): Tremendous in ODIs and World Cups but not a regular
• Shaun Marsh (Australia): Brilliant domestic record and key ODI knocks, but criticized unfairly
• Taijul Islam (Bangladesh): Consistent spinner but overshadowed by Shakib

Final Thoughts

Cricket fans, commentators, and analysts often chase the “next big thing” or focus on already established stars. But the game wouldn’t run without its quiet performers—players who show up day after day, win matches, and make sacrifices without getting enough praise.

These ten cricketers may not be the most followed on social media, but their numbers, commitment, and impact tell a different story. If we look beyond the spotlight, we’ll realize that every team’s success depends heavily on these “unsung heroes.”

So next time you cheer for your team, don’t just remember the captains and finishers—remember the players who work hard behind the scenes to make those wins possible.