By Akanksha - Jul 08, 2025 01:03 PM
In a game where height often provides leverage for pace, bounce, and reach, these cricketers proved that stature has nothing to do with greatness. From producing match-winning innings to leading their nations with grit, the shortest cricketers in the world have redefined what it means to stand tall in the sport. Here's a definitive, updated list of the top 5 shortest cricketers who made a massive impact on the international stage.
Country: India
Career Span: 1969–1983
Format Stats:
Tests: 91 Matches | 6080 Runs | Avg: 41.93 | 14 100s
ODIs: 25 Matches | 439 Runs | Avg: 19.08
Known as the “Little Master” before Tendulkar or Gavaskar took centre stage, Gundappa Vishwanath was a master of timing and technique. His elegance, especially the square of the wicket, made him a fan favourite. Despite being one of the shortest cricketers, his stature in Indian cricket history remains towering.
Country: Bangladesh
Career Span: 2005-Present
Format Stats (As of July 2025):
Tests: 88 Matches | 5747 Runs | Avg: 38.94 | 10 100s
ODIs: 274 Matches | 7576 Runs | Avg: 36.42 | 9 100s
T20Is: 106 Matches | 1704 Runs | Avg: 20.28
One of Bangladesh’s finest, Mushfiqur Rahim is a symbol of resilience. Despite his small frame, he has delivered countless clutch performances, both as a wicketkeeper and a middle-order mainstay. His ability to grind through difficult conditions has made him a modern legend in Bangladesh cricket.
Country: England
Career Span: 1930
Format Stats:
Tests: 4 Matches | 36 Runs | Avg: 9.00 | Catches/Stumpings: 6/2
Before the era of helmets and advanced gear, Tich Cornford took on the game at just 5 feet tall. Though his Test career was brief, his legacy as one of the shortest international cricketers remains unmatched for decades, only later eclipsed by Kruger van Wyk.
Country: India
Career Span: 1971-1987
Format Stats:
Tests: 125 Matches | 10122 Runs | Avg: 51.12 | 34 100s
ODIs: 108 Matches | 3092 Runs | Avg: 35.13 | 1 100
One of the greatest openers in cricket history, Sunil Gavaskar stood only 5’2” tall but stood tall against the fiercest bowling attacks of his time. Whether facing the fearsome West Indies pace quartet or dominating on foreign soil, his technique and bravery set the gold standard for generations to come.
Country: New Zealand
Career Span: 2012
Format Stats:
Tests: 9 Matches | 341 Runs | Avg: 21.31 | Catches/Stumpings: 23/0
Born in South Africa, Kruger van Wyk remains the shortest player to have ever played international cricket. Donning the Kiwi cap in 2012, he was a gutsy wicketkeeper-batter who made the most of his brief stint, stepping in when BJ Watling was unavailable. His dedication, especially behind the stumps, was admirable.
| Name | Height | Country | Role |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kruger van Wyk | 4'9" (150 cm) | New Zealand | Wicketkeeper-Batter |
| Tich Cornford | 5'0" (152 cm) | England | Wicketkeeper |
| Sunil Gavaskar | 5'2" (157 cm) | India | Opening Batter |
| Mushfiqur Rahim | 5'3" (160 cm) | Bangladesh | Wicketkeeper-Batter |
| Gundappa Vishwanath | 5'3" (160 cm) | India | Middle-order Batter |
These cricketers prove that heart, skill, and determination far outweigh the advantages of height. Whether you’re 6’5” or under 5 feet, cricket remains a game where pure talent always shines through. Their journeys inspire millions to chase the game with passion, no matter their build.
Also Read: Top 10 Tallest Cricketers in the World Till 2025
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