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Adam Gilchrist, renowned as one of the greatest wicketkeepers in cricket history, was not only an exceptional keeper but also a dynamic batter whose aggressive style arguably transformed the role of wicketkeeper-batter in Test cricket. Throughout his illustrious career, he secured two ODI World Cup titles and amassed numerous other accolades.
Between 1996 and 2008, Adam Gilchrist featured in 96 Tests, 287 ODIs, and 13 T20Is. Over these matches, he amassed 15,461 runs and made 905 dismissals (813 catches and 92 stumpings), ranking second in international cricket history for dismissals.
So, who does Gilchrist consider the top three wicketkeeper-batters of all time? The 52-year-old named his Australian idol Rodney Marsh as his top pick, followed by former India captain MS Dhoni in second place, and Sri Lankan legend Kumar Sangakkara rounding out the top three.
“Rodney Marsh, he was my idol. That’s who I wanted to be. MS Dhoni… I like his coolness. He did it his way, always calm. And Kumar Sangakkara. He was so classy in everything he did, batting high up the order and with his keeping skills,” Gilchrist told The Times of India.
Gilchrist also reflected on the iconic Kolkata Test of 2001, where India made a remarkable comeback after being asked to follow-on and ultimately defeated Australia. He regards that match as one of his most challenging days on the field.
“Kolkata, 2001, when VVS (Laxman) and (Rahul) Dravid batted all day. They just shut us out of the game. When I reflect on it, you almost knew you were part of something special,” he said.
In the 2004-05 season, Australia ended their prolonged quest for a Test series victory in India under the leadership of Adam Gilchrist. With regular captain Ricky Ponting sidelined due to injury for the first three Tests of the four-match series, Gilchrist stepped up to lead the team. Australia ultimately clinched the series 2-1.
Gilchrist said winning in India was a “fulfilling experience”.
“Captaincy brings different pressures and expectations. Also, an element of excitement that you can have such an impact on the game. There are tough days, there are challenging days and then there are pleasing days. To win in India in 2004-05, that was a fulfilling experience, makes captaincy nice and fun,” he said.
