The prominent South African fast bowler, Kagiso Rabada, is commonly considered as a premier speedster in contemporary cricket. Ever since his debut onto the international scene back in 2014, Rabada has challenged some of the best batsmen around the globe with his express pace, precision, and ability to claim wickets. Having taken over 500 wickets across all formats of the game, he has definitely cemented his status as one of the greats of today.
Kagiso Rabada picks 5 toughest batters in international cricket
Despite achieving significant success, Rabada has also acknowledged that several batsmen have really put his skills and perseverance to the test. During an appearance on the Beard Before Wicket Podcast, the 29-year-old speed merchant revealed the five most challenging opponents he has faced in international cricket. His selection includes some of the most celebrated individuals in the sport who have dominated the world of cricket over the past decade.
Virat Kohli – the ultimate competitor
The first name that came to Rabada’s attention was the phenomenal Indian batsman, Virat Kohli. Describing him as someone who ‘doesn’t give his wicket away easily,’ Rabada mentioned that Kohli’s resolve and capability to wear down bowlers made him especially difficult to get out.
“I feel like Kohli was incredibly hard to get out. He was extremely stingy with his wicket, man. And he would just bat and bat and when you get him out, you know you’ve earned it. You know you’ve been in a battle,” Rabada commented.
David Warner – unpredictable and unorthodox
The South African bowler also emphasized the Australian opening batsman David Warner as one of the most difficult batsmen he has had to bowl to. What stood out to Rabada was Warner’s unusual ability to powerfully cut deliveries that other players typically couldn’t.
“I actually found David Warner quite tough to bowl to. I think he’s probably the hardest. He was just so unorthodox… whenever I drop my length slightly short, he just latch onto it and cut. He was the only guy who could do that against me,” Rabada stated, recognizing Warner’s singular approach despite having achieved some success against him over time.
Babar Azam – the rock of Pakistan
Another name highlighted by Rabada was Pakistan’s key batsman, Babar Azam. He admired Babar’s tenacity, especially when playing at home, referring to him as a ‘pillar’ in Pakistan’s batting order.
“Baba Azam was is is a bit of he’s a rock, you know, especially playing in in Pakistan. It’s like, man, how are you going to get this guy out?” Rabada said while praising the Pakistan star’s well-built technique and steady composure.
Joe Root, Steve Smith and Kane Williamson – masters of consistency
Within the esteemed Fab Four, Rabada also identified England’s Joe Root, New Zealand’s Kane Williamson and Australia’s Steve Smith. Root’s skill in rotating the strike and constructing extended innings has frequently posed a challenge for bowlers worldwide, while Williamson’s calmness and time-honored technique have established him as one of the most esteemed players of his generation. Recognized for his unique stance and movements at the crease, Smith has presented a complex challenge for bowlers across all formats.
“Joe Root um was tough to bowl at. Kane Williamson, the usual. The usual. Steve Smith. These guys are special, man,” added Rabada.
Rabada’s reflections bring to light the recognition that even the finest bowlers in the world value the challenge presented by top-tier batsmen. His list of challenging opponents consists of celebrated figures who have not only been dominant in matches but have also elevated modern cricket to greater levels through their consistency and exceptional talent.
