As the cricketing world slowly bids farewell to the golden era of Virat Kohli, Steve Smith, Joe Root, and Kane Williamson — a generation-defining quartet known famously as the “Fab Four” — the inevitable question arises: Who will carry the torch forward?
This week, Kane Williamson himself offered an answer. In an exclusive chat with ESPNcricinfo, the former New Zealand captain named four promising young talents he believes could emerge as the next Fab Four in international cricket. To the delight of Indian fans, two Indians—Yashasvi Jaiswal and Shubman Gill—feature in his elite shortlist.
Joining them are Rachin Ravindra from New Zealand and Harry Brook from England, with a special mention for Australia’s Cameron Green as a potential fifth member of this emerging generation.
From Legends to Legacy
For over a decade, Kohli, Smith, Root, and Williamson dominated world cricket across formats. From the Ashes to the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, from World Cup heroics to Test centuries on foreign soil, these four raised the standard of batting across the globe. But as the curtain slowly falls on their glittering careers—Kohli has retired from Tests and T20Is, Smith from ODIs, and Root and Williamson have stepped away from T20Is—a generational handover is underway.
Williamson’s identification of successors is not just a sentimental reflection but a calculated observation based on recent performances and potential for longevity.
Meet the New Guard
1. Yashasvi Jaiswal (India)
Few youngsters have made a more impactful start to their international careers than Yashasvi Jaiswal. The left-handed opener has dazzled in Tests, scoring a debut century and recently hammering over 700 runs in a single Test series against England on home soil. His ability to mix aggression with composure, particularly against high-quality pace and spin, sets him apart.
Even in hostile Australian conditions, where many seasoned players falter, Jaiswal stood tall. He was instrumental in India’s lone win in the Perth Test and finished the series with a commendable 391 runs at 43.44.
2. Shubman Gill (India)
Already being dubbed as the “Prince of Indian Cricket,” Shubman Gill has shown remarkable maturity beyond his years. A fluent stroke-maker, Gill has made centuries in all three formats and is already captaining India in the absence of Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli. His classical technique, combined with an aggressive mindset, makes him one of the most well-rounded young cricketers today.
With impressive tours in Australia and England under his belt, Gill’s adaptability across conditions and formats makes him a genuine multi-format mainstay for India.
3. Rachin Ravindra (New Zealand)
Rachin Ravindra has been one of the breakout stars for New Zealand. The young all-rounder grabbed global attention during the 2023 ODI World Cup and has since transitioned seamlessly into Test cricket. With centuries in both subcontinental and seaming conditions, Ravindra brings the rare blend of patience, stroke-play, and all-round value.
His calm demeanor at the crease and utility as a part-time spinner give New Zealand the kind of balance that is invaluable in modern cricket.
4. Harry Brook (England)
England’s Harry Brook has injected excitement into their batting lineup with an aggressive style reminiscent of Kevin Pietersen. Whether it’s Test cricket or the white-ball format, Brook’s fearless approach has paid dividends. He’s scored quickly in Tests and has already built a reputation as a match-winner.
With England’s transition into the “Bazball” era, Brook seems tailor-made for the philosophy and could well become its enduring face in the years to come.
5. Cameron Green (Australia) – The Wildcard
Though not part of the Fab Four replacement list per se, Williamson added Cameron Green as a strong candidate. A genuine all-rounder with an imposing presence, Green has shown flashes of brilliance with both bat and ball. While still polishing his consistency, his potential is unquestionable, and his inclusion shows how well-rounded the future of world cricket is becoming.
The Next Chapter Begins
Kane Williamson’s endorsement of the next generation isn’t merely symbolic. It signals a broader shift in cricket’s global dynamics. With the veterans slowly stepping back, the game is ready for a new era—led by young talents who bring flair, discipline, and a hunger to dominate across all formats.
Much like Kohli, Root, Smith, and Williamson once emerged in the shadow of legends like Tendulkar, Ponting, and Kallis, today’s rising stars are now gearing up to write their own legacy.
The torch has been passed. And judging by the early signs, it’s in good hands.
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