As James Anderson prepares to bid farewell to international cricket, his illustrious career spanning nearly two decades has seen many cricketers come and go. Among them are several notable Indian players who began their careers after Anderson but retired before him, leaving their own indelible marks on the sport. Let's delve into the careers of five such Indian cricketers who made significant contributions to the game.
MS Dhoni
MS Dhoni, one of India's most legendary cricketers, debuted in ODIs in 2004, shortly after Anderson's entry into international cricket. Dhoni, who won the 2013 Champions Trophy, the 2011 ODI World Cup, and the 2007 T20 World Cup, is well-known for his poise and leadership abilities. His influence spanned across all formats, featuring in 90 Tests, 350 ODIs, and 98 T20Is. Dhoni amassed over 15,000 runs and was celebrated for his ability to win matches and his sharp captaincy. He left behind a lasting legacy that inspires future generations of cricket players, and his retirement from international cricket in 2020 signaled the end of an incredible era.
Gautam Gambhir
Gautam Gambhir, renowned for his resilience and determination, made his debut in 2003, following Anderson's early foray into international cricket. He played a vital role in India's batting lineup across various formats, accumulating over 10,000 runs with 20 centuries in 58 Tests, 147 ODIs, and 37 T20Is. India's triumphs in the 2011 ODI World Cup and the 2007 T20 World Cup were greatly aided by Gambhir's efforts. After retiring from international cricket in 2018, he ventured into politics and subsequently into coaching, aiming to mentor the next generation of Indian cricketers.
Suresh Raina
A dynamic middle-order batsman and agile fielder, Suresh Raina made his international debut in 2005, following Anderson's initial steps in the cricketing world. Raina's adaptability and flair made him a valuable asset in limited-overs cricket, where he played 226 ODIs and 78 T20Is, contributing significantly to India's successes in the 2011 ODI World Cup and the 2013 Champions Trophy. His ability to accelerate innings and take crucial catches highlighted his utility in the team. Raina bid adieu to international cricket in 2020, continuing to engage with the sport through broadcasting and global T20 leagues.
Dinesh Karthik
Dinesh Karthik entered the international arena in 2004, just after Anderson's emergence, establishing himself as a versatile wicketkeeper-batsman. Karthik's career spanned 26 Tests, 94 ODIs, and 56 T20Is, marked by his agility behind the stumps and ability to stabilize India's middle order. He was part of India's victorious campaigns in the 2007 T20 World Cup and the 2013 Champions Trophy. Karthik's retirement from all forms of cricket in 2024 signaled the end of an era, as he transitioned into coaching and mentoring roles, aiming to impart his knowledge and experience to future generations of cricketers.
Irfan Pathan
Irfan Pathan made a striking entry onto the international stage in 2003, showcasing his skills as a swing bowler and a reliable lower-order batsman, shortly after Anderson's debut. His remarkable hat-trick in the first over of a Test match against Pakistan remains etched in cricketing history. Pathan's career saw him feature in 29 Tests, 120 ODIs, and 24 T20Is, where he made significant contributions with both bat and ball. He played a pivotal role in India's victorious campaign in the 2007 T20 World Cup. Retiring from international cricket in 2020, Pathan transitioned into commentary, where he continues to offer valuable insights into the game.