Which Jersey Number is the Best in Cricket?: In the world of cricket, jersey numbers often go beyond mere identifiers for players on the field. They become symbols of greatness, legacies, and unforgettable moments. Some numbers are etched in the history of the game because of the incredible players who wore them, while others carry personal significance or cultural weight. But which jersey number is the best in cricket? Is it the number worn by a legendary batsman, a world-class bowler, or a player who changed the game forever?

Which Jersey Number is the Best in Cricket?

Let’s take a deep dive into some of the most iconic jersey numbers in cricket history and the players who wore them, and explore why these numbers continue to hold a special place in the hearts of fans worldwide.

1. Number 10 – The Legacy of Brian Lara

When we think of the number 10 in cricket, the first name that comes to mind is Brian Lara. Widely regarded as one of the greatest batsmen of all time, Lara’s majestic performances with the bat made the number 10 synonymous with class, elegance, and record-breaking feats. Lara holds the record for the highest individual score in Test cricket (400*), and his sublime stroke play inspired generations of cricketers. His association with the number 10 has elevated it to legendary status.

Batting & Fielding

Format	Mat	Inns	NO	Runs	HS
Tests	131	232	6	11953	400*
ODIs	299	289	32	10405	169
FC	261	440	13	22156	501*
List A	429	411	43	14602	169
T20s	3	3	0	99	65

Why Number 10?

Worn by Brian Lara, one of the greatest ever to play the game.
Symbolizes elegance, technique, and sheer class.
Associated with iconic performances, including world records.

2. Number 7 – The Magical Influence of MS Dhoni

Another number that commands respect across the cricketing world is number 7, worn by MS Dhoni, one of the most successful captains in cricket history. Under Dhoni’s leadership, India won numerous prestigious titles, including the ICC T20 World Cup (2007), the ICC Cricket World Cup (2011), and the ICC Champions Trophy (2013). Dhoni’s calmness under pressure, ability to finish games, and tactical acumen have made the number 7 iconic. His presence on the field transformed India into one of the most dominant teams in the world.

Batting & Fielding

Format	Mat	Inns	NO	Runs	HS
Tests	90	144	16	4876	224
ODIs	350	297	84	10773	183*
T20Is	98	85	42	1617	56
FC	131	210	19	7038	224
List A	423	364	99	13353	183*
T20s	391	342	147	7432	84*

Why Number 7?

Worn by MS Dhoni, one of cricket’s most successful captains and finishers.
Represents leadership, composure, and the ability to deliver in clutch moments.
Symbolizes India’s modern-day cricketing success.

3. Number 18 – The Phenomenal Virat Kohli

Virat Kohli’s number 18 has become synonymous with modern cricket excellence. As one of the best batsmen of his generation, Kohli has redefined the expectations of fitness, consistency, and run-chases. His aggressive approach, paired with a deep understanding of the game, has earned him millions of fans worldwide. Kohli’s number 18 is now not just a jersey number, but a brand representing relentless drive and passion for the game.

Batting & Fielding

Format	Mat	Inns	NO	Runs	HS
Tests	118	201	12	9040	254*
ODIs	295	283	44	13906	183
T20Is	125	117	31	4188	122*
FC	150	249	19	11289	254*
List A	329	316	47	15348	183
T20s	399	382	71	12886	122*

Why Number 18?

Worn by Virat Kohli, one of the best modern-day batsmen.
Symbolizes consistency, aggression, and the pursuit of excellence.
Associated with Kohli’s dominance across all formats of the game.

4. Number 23 – The Charisma of Shahid Afridi

In cricket, number 23 carries a special meaning for fans of Shahid Afridi, one of the most dynamic and charismatic all-rounders in history. Afridi’s explosive batting, especially his ability to hit massive sixes, and his unpredictable style, made him one of the most entertaining cricketers of all time. His performances with the bat were often the difference between victory and defeat, and his ability to turn a game on its head made his number 23 unforgettable.

Batting & Fielding

Format	Mat	Inns	NO	Runs	HS
Tests	27	48	1	1716	156
ODIs	398	369	27	8064	124
T20Is	99	91	12	1416	54*
FC	113	185	4	5695	164
List A	501	467	31	10881	124
T20s	329	279	38	4399	101

Why Number 23?

Worn by Shahid Afridi, the “Boom Boom” of world cricket.
Represents explosive power and match-winning performances.
Known for electrifying batting displays and his impact in limited-overs formats.

5. Number 3 – The Timelessness of Rahul Dravid

The number 3 jersey has a unique significance in the cricketing world, especially when it is associated with Rahul Dravid. Known as “The Wall,” Dravid was one of the most dependable and technically sound batsmen ever to play the game. His number 3 was a symbol of consistency, resilience, and excellence in Test cricket. Dravid’s methodical and patient approach to batting made the number 3 synonymous with reliability and longevity.

Batting & Fielding

Format	Mat	Inns	NO	Runs	HS
Tests	164	286	32	13288	270
ODIs	344	318	40	10889	153
T20Is	1	1	0	31	31
FC	298	497	67	23794	270
List A	449	416	55	15271	153
T20s	109	101	7	2586	75*

Why Number 3?

Worn by Rahul Dravid, one of the most revered Test cricketers.
Represents technical mastery, resilience, and consistency.
Associated with Dravid’s role as the backbone of the Indian batting line-up.

6. Number 99 – The Phenomenal Muttiah Muralitharan

Muttiah Muralitharan’s iconic number 99 has a legendary status, especially among spin bowlers. With 800 wickets in Test cricket, Muralitharan is the highest wicket-taker in the history of the format, and his unique style of bowling, with the “doosra” and extraordinary spin, changed the way spin bowling was perceived. Wearing number 99, Muralitharan revolutionized the game and set new records that are unlikely to be broken anytime soon.

Bowling

Format	Mat	Inns	Balls	Runs	Wkts
Tests	133	230	44039	18180	800
ODIs	350	341	18811	12326	534
T20Is	12	12	282	297	13
FC	232	–	66933	26997	1374
List A	453	–	23734	15270	682
T20s	164	164	3705	3945	179

Why Number 99?

Worn by Muttiah Muralitharan, the highest wicket-taker in Test cricket.
Represents skill, innovation, and mastery over spin.
Symbolizes the evolution of spin bowling and cricketing records.

7. Number 77 – The Timeless Influence of Jacques Kallis

Jacques Kallis, one of cricket’s greatest all-rounders, wore number 77 with distinction. As a batsman and bowler, Kallis was the epitome of balance and versatility. His ability to contribute both with the bat and the ball made him one of the most complete cricketers ever. His number 77 symbolizes all-around excellence, and Kallis’ contribution to South African cricket is unparalleled.

Batting & Fielding

Format	Mat	Inns	NO	Runs	HS
Tests	166	280	40	13289	224
ODIs	328	314	53	11579	139
T20Is	25	23	4	666	73
FC	257	421	57	19695	224
List A	424	406	65	14845	155*
T20s	176	171	28	4416	97*

Why Number 77?

Worn by Jacques Kallis, one of the greatest all-rounders in cricket history.
Symbolizes balance, versatility, and all-round excellence.
Associated with Kallis’ success in both batting and bowling.

The Best Jersey Number in Cricket?

There is no definitive answer to which jersey number is the “best” in cricket, as it often comes down to personal preference and the influence of iconic players. For some, it’s the number worn by a batsman like Brian Lara or Virat Kohli; for others, it’s the number 7, worn by MS Dhoni, that signifies leadership and the ability to handle pressure. Ultimately, the best jersey number in cricket is one that resonates with a player’s legacy, their contributions to the game, and the unforgettable moments they’ve given fans around the world.

Whether it’s number 10, 7, 18, or 99, each of these numbers carries a unique story and is tied to cricketing legends who have shaped the history of the sport. In the end, the “best” number is the one that inspires you the most.