By Chirag - Jun 10, 2025 10:35 AM
The International Cricket Council (ICC) has announced 7 legendary cricket players as the newest members of the ICC Hall of Fame, marking a significant milestone for the game worldwide. The announcement was made during a grand event held at the iconic Abbey Road Studios in London, with ICC Chair Jay Shah officially welcoming the inductees.
Speaking at the ceremony, Jay Shah emphasized the significance of the recognition:
"Through the ICC Hall of Fame, we pay tribute to the finest players the game has seen, individuals whose remarkable careers have shaped cricket's legacy and inspired generations."
This year’s induction features players from various generations and nations, spanning both men's and women’s cricket. The 2025 ICC Hall of Fame class includes Matthew Hayden, Hashim Amla, MS Dhoni, Graeme Smith, Daniel Vettori, Sana Mir, and Sarah Taylor.
A ferocious opener and key figure in Australia’s golden era, Hayden scored over 8,600 Test runs and 6,000+ ODI runs with outstanding consistency. Known for his aggressive strokeplay and big-match temperament, he dominated opposition attacks across formats. His two World Cup victories and top-scoring performance in the 2007 ICC World Cup round off an illustrious career. He made a smooth transition into a reputable cricket analyst after retiring.
"It’s incredible to be recognized alongside players I’ve admired throughout my life," Hayden shared.
For South Africa, Hashim Amla redefined grace at the crease. With more than 9,000 Test and 8,000 ODI runs, his poise and reliability propelled South Africa to the top of the Test rankings. His triple century against England remains a landmark achievement. Renowned for his wristy strokeplay and humility, Amla's presence was a pillar of South African cricket.
"Being inducted alongside Graeme makes this even more meaningful. It's a surreal moment," Amla expressed.
India’s most successful white-ball captain, MS Dhoni’s career is defined by calm leadership, lightning-fast wicketkeeping, and ice-cool finishing skills. Leading India to three major ICC titles—T20 World Cup (2007), ODI World Cup (2011), and Champions Trophy (2013)—Dhoni changed the face of Indian cricket. With over 17,000 runs and 800 dismissals across formats, he’s a true modern-day legend.
"Being named among the all-time greats is something I’ll cherish forever," Dhoni said with pride.
Graeme Smith, one of the youngest Test captains ever, guided South Africa with tenacity and command. He scored over 9,200 Test runs and played a vital role in many overseas victories. His leadership helped the Proteas become a formidable force in world cricket. Even under the pressure of captaincy, Smith maintained high batting standards.
"It’s a proud moment to be honored alongside so many legends and fellow South African Hashim Amla," said Smith.
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As an all-rounder and left-arm spinner, Daniel Vettori had a huge influence. A rare achiever of the 4,000-run and 300-wicket double in Tests, he also played crucial roles in ODIs and T20Is. His cricketing intelligence and leadership qualities made him a valuable asset, and his influence continues as a coach and mentor.
"To join the names that have shaped this sport is overwhelming," Vettori remarked.
Sana Mir was a trailblazer in Pakistani women's cricket, but her influence goes beyond the field. She became the first Pakistani woman to be inducted into the ICC Hall of Fame, having taken over 200 international wickets. Her leadership and advocacy for mental health and women’s empowerment made her a transformative figure in the sport.
"From dreaming of just having a women's team in Pakistan to this—it’s beyond imagination," Mir said emotionally.
Known for her flair behind the stumps and elegance with the bat, Sarah Taylor revolutionized wicketkeeping in women’s cricket. With over 6,000 runs and more than 230 dismissals, she was pivotal in England's World Cup wins in 2009 and 2017. Taylor’s openness about mental health has also had a lasting impact off the field.
"This honor means the world, especially during such an exciting time for women’s cricket," Taylor shared.
This year’s ICC Hall of Fame inductees represent the very best the game has offered—excellence, leadership, resilience, and inspiration. Their careers have not only brought joy to millions of fans worldwide but have also laid a foundation for future generations.
As Jay Shah fittingly concluded, “These seven individuals have etched their names into cricket’s glorious history. Their legacy will inspire the cricketing world for generations to come.”
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