Adam Gilchrist, who represented Australia in 96 Tests, 287 ODIs and 13 T20Is, is widely deemed as one of the greatest wicketkeepers to have ever played the game. He affected a total of 92 stumpings and took 813 catches in his illustrious career, which makes him one of the best judges to pick the best wicketkeeper.
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Recently, Gilchrist ranked greats such as MS Dhoni, Kumar Sangakkara, Brendon McCullum and Mark Boucher according to his preference and also chose the best among them.
“Look it got to be Dhoni ...my name is Gilly not silly I understand I’m talking to an Indian with a lot of Indian supporters so of course, Dhoni’s up the top then Sangakara and Brendon (McCullum),” said Gilchrist in an interview with TV presenter Madonna Tixeira in her show ‘Live Connect’.
“Mark Boucher unfortunately a little bit short carrier due to an eye injury but what outstanding group cricketers,” he added.
Dhoni is No.3 in the list of wicketkeepers with most dismissals behind Boucher and Gilchrist. The former India skipper has 634 catches and 195 stumpings (world record) to his name in international cricket.
Apart from his prowess behind the stumps, Dhoni is regarded as one of the greatest ODI batsmen as he averages above 50 with 10,773 runs to his name in the 50-over format.
He has also etched his name in the history books as one of India’s finest leaders. Dhoni is the only skipper in the history of cricket to have won all the three ICC trophies – 2007 World T20, 2011 Cricket World Cup and 2013 Champions Trophy. The veteran campaigner has also led India to the pinnacle in Test cricket while he has captained CSK to three IPL titles and two Champions League trophies.
Speaking about Dhoni as a cricketer, Gilchrist said he loved watching the Indian keeper’s career develop.
“I have really loved watching his career develop. He came on the scene with this amazing 100 that just set everyone on loving him and following him and the style of Cricket that he played. But his rise to fame and fortune and everything and the expectation in a country like India that is passionate about so many things certainly Cricket. I think the way he handled himself was extraordinary,” Gilchrist remarked.
The Australian great is also a fan of Dhoni’s calmness both on and off the field.
“His calmness on the field and the bit that I’ve observed and got to know him off the field it’s extraordinary. There is a lot to be admired there. His lasting legacy and impact on Indian cricket and society in India will be long-lasting,” Gilchrist said.
