New Delhi: Cricket enthusiasts worldwide have always encountered the elite term “Fab Four,” known for its flamboyance and for the players it comprises, who are arguably the greatest Test batters the cricket world will ever see. It has been 10 years since the birth of the term, as back in 2014, it was the emergence of Virat Kohli, Steve Smith, Joe Root, and Kane Williamson as exceptional cricketers.
In the current cricket scenario, the four batters collectively form the “Fab Four” as they have redefined modern-day batting with their skillset, consistency, and ability to perform under pressure. Little does anyone know that the term was first introduced by New Zealand legend Martin Crowe in 2014, as he recognised the exceptional talents these batters possessed.
The prophecy came true, as each member of this elite quartet has paved his own path in international cricket and has been placed beside the all-time greats of the game.
Why did Crowe opt for “Fab Four”?
Martin Crowe had a keen eye for identifying talent. It was in one of his articles for ESPNcricinfo where he observed the rising dominance of Kohli, Smith, Root, and Williamson. During that time, these players were firmly establishing their niche in world cricket and were on the verge of becoming key figures in their respective national sides. Their performances stood apart from the rest of some of the Test’s great veterans.
Crowe compared the four batters to the famous English rock band “The Beatles”, known for its legacy and long-lasting impact on the music industry, drawing parallels of their additions to the world cricket.
While Kohli is noted for his aggressive and fearless approach while batting, New Zealand’s Williamson is well revered for his calm and composed demeanour. Smith from Australia is lauded for his unorthodox style which often proves beneficial for his side while Root brings an amalgamation of the traditional technique and modern style batting.
Who tops the Fab Four race?
Joe Root currently leads the quartet with 33 Test centuries as he recently surpassed Smith and Williamson’s tally of 32 Test hundred. Meanwhile, Kohli sits third with 29 centuries to his credit. It is highly noteworthy that Kohli was spearheading the pack with 27 centuries till the start of 2021. Root was at 17 back then and he went on to slam 16 tons in between to lead the list while Kohli could add two more in the span.
It was on August 31, 2014 when Martin Crowe coined the term “Fab Four” for the quartet of Test batting greats Virat Kohli, Joe Root, Steve Smith and Kane Williamson. Cricket Sports News: Latest Cricket News, Cricket Live Score, Sports Breaking News from Sports Today
