As the legendary era of the original “Fab Four”—Virat Kohli, Kane Williamson, Steve Smith, and Joe Root—draws to a close, the cricketing world is eager to know who will inherit their mantle. In a recent interview, Kane Williamson himself has spotlighted the next generation of cricketing greats, naming Yashasvi Jaiswal, Shubman Gill, Rachin Ravindra, and Harry Brook as the new Fab Four destined to shape the future of world cricket.
The Rise of the Next Fab Four
Williamson, a central figure of the outgoing Fab Four, emphasized the importance of multi-format excellence when identifying his successors. According to him, these four young cricketers have already demonstrated outstanding performances across formats and possess the potential to dominate international cricket in the coming years.
Yashasvi Jaiswal and Shubman Gill: Indian Cricket’s Brightest Prospects
Among Williamson’s picks, two Indians stand out: Yashasvi Jaiswal and Shubman Gill. Jaiswal has quickly established himself as a force in Test cricket with a combination of composure and aggressive shot-making, while Gill’s adaptability and classical technique have made him a mainstay across all formats. Both are seen as future leaders and consistent performers for India, with Jaiswal already playing a key role in India’s recent successes and Gill being touted as a future captain.
Rachin Ravindra: New Zealand’s All-Format Star
Rachin Ravindra, the lone Kiwi in the new Fab Four, has become a crucial player for New Zealand. His ability to contribute with both bat and ball across formats makes him an invaluable asset. Ravindra’s consistency and versatility have marked him as a player to watch as New Zealand transitions into a new era.
Harry Brook: England’s Dynamic Game-Changer
England’s Harry Brook rounds out the quartet. Known for his aggressive style and ability to score rapidly, Brook has already made a significant impact in red-ball cricket and has taken on leadership roles in England’s white-ball teams. His explosive performances and adaptability align perfectly with England’s modern cricketing philosophy.
Honourable Mention: Cameron Green
While the focus remains on the new Fab Four, Williamson also mentioned Australia’s Cameron Green as a potential addition, highlighting his all-round abilities and game-changing performances when fit.