Top 10 Shortest Cricketers in the World
From wicketkeepers to batsmen, these players have proven that size is no obstacle when it comes to excelling in the sport. Here are the top 10 shortest cricketers of all time who shocked the world with their talent.
Height may not always be a defining factor of success on the cricket field, it’s interesting to take note of the shortest cricketers who have made significant contributions to their teams.
Shortest Cricketers of All Time: Top 10 List
Cricket may be perceived as a sport dominated by tall players; these short cricketers have proven that height is no barrier to success on the field.
1) Kruger Van Wyk – 150 cm (4’9’’)
Kruger Van Wyk with a height of 4’9 inches is the shortest cricketer in the world, but he made a big impact as a wicketkeeper-batsman for the New Zealand cricket team.
Despite his diminutive size, Van Wyk was known for his agility behind the stumps and his ability to anchor the lower order with the bat.
He represented New Zealand in international cricket from 2012 to 2013, earning praise for his dedication and resilience on the field.
2) Tich Cornford – 152 cm (5’0’’)
Tich Cornford, an English cricketer, stood at just 152 cm tall but possessed immense talent as a wicketkeeper. He played for the England cricket team during the 1920s and 1930s, earning a reputation for his quick reflexes and sharp glovework behind the stumps.
Cornford’s height did not hinder his ability to excel in the sport, and he remains one of the shortest cricketers to have represented England at the international level.
3) Sunil Gavaskar – 157 cm (5’2’’)
Sunil Gavaskar, often regarded as one of the greatest opening batsmen in cricket history, stood at just 157 cm tall. Despite his small stature, Gavaskar’s technique, determination, and impeccable timing made him a formidable force at the crease.
Gavaskar represented the Indian cricket team from the 1970s to the 1980s, amassing numerous records and accolades, including being the first batsman to score 10,000 runs in Test cricket.
4) Tich Freeman – 157 cm (5’2’’)
Another English cricketer on our list, Tich Freeman, was a talented leg-spinner who stood at the height of 157 cm. Despite his small frame, Freeman possessed exceptional spin bowling skills and played a key role in the England cricket team during the 1920s and 1930s.
Tich remains one of the leading wicket-takers in first-class cricket history, with over 3,000 wickets to his name.
5) Mushfiqur Rahim – 160 cm (5’3’’)
Mushfiqur Rahim, the former captain of the Bangladesh cricket team, is known for his compact stature and exceptional batting skills. Standing at just 160 cm tall, Rahim defied expectations with his ability to score runs consistently against top opposition.
Rahim holds numerous records for Bangladesh cricket, including being the first player from the country to score a double century in Test cricket.
6) Parthiv Patel – 160 cm (5’3’’)
Parthiv Patel, the diminutive wicketkeeper-batsman from India, is known for his agility behind the stumps and his aggressive batting style. Despite his small height of 160 cm, Patel made his mark in international cricket with his performances in both Test and limited-overs formats.
Patel represented India from the early 2000s to the late 2010s, earning praise for his resilience and determination on the field.
7) David Boon – 160 cm (5’3’’)
David Boon, the Australian cricketer renowned for his gritty batting and robust physique, stood at just 160 cm tall. Despite his short stature, Boon was a prolific run-scorer for the Australian cricket team during the 1980s and 1990s. Boom played a key role in several Ashes series victories and remains a revered figure in Australian cricket history.
8) Gundappa Vishwanath – 160 cm (5’3’’)
Gundappa Vishwanath, affectionately known as “Vishy,” was a stylish batsman who stood at the height of 160 cm. Despite his small stature, Vishwanath possessed impeccable timing and elegant strokeplay, earning him a reputation as one of India’s finest batsmen.
Vishwanath represented India in international cricket during the 1970s and was known for his performances against top bowling attacks.
9) Mominul Haque (Bangladesh) – Height: 161 cm (5’3.5’’)
Mominul Haque, the current captain of the Bangladesh cricket team, stands at 161 cm tall and is known for his solid technique and consistent run-scoring ability.
Despite facing taller and faster bowlers, Haque has established himself as a dependable batsman in all formats of the game. Mominul Haque has led Bangladesh with distinction and continues to be a key player in their lineup.
10) Prithvi Shaw – 163 cm (5’4’’)
Prithvi Shaw, the dynamic young batsman from India, stands at 163 cm tall and is known for his aggressive batting style and natural talent. Despite his relatively short height, Shaw has made a significant impact in domestic and international cricket with his explosive stroke-play and fearless approach. He is regarded as one of India’s most promising talents and has already achieved success at a young age.
Conclusion
Through their skill, determination, and resilience, these top 10 shortest cricketers in the world have carved out illustrious careers and left an indelible mark on the sport. From Sunil Gavaskar to Prithvi Shaw, these players have shown that greatness comes in all shapes and sizes in the world of cricket.
Also Read: Tallest Cricketers in the World