Pat Cummins has been named Wisden’s Leading Cricketer in the World (Men) for 2023, marking a remarkable year for the Australian cricketer. Cummins, who also serves as Australia‘s captain, had a stellar 2023, leading his team to several significant victories and personal achievements.
Cummins’s captaincy journey began in November 2021, and by 2023, he had firmly established himself as a rare breed of captain – a pace-bowling skipper. His leadership skills were on full display as Australia secured victories in key tournaments, including the World Test Championship and the World Cup.
One of the highlights of Cummins’s year was his performance in the Benaud-Qadir Trophy against Pakistan, where he took 19 wickets at an impressive average of 12. His exceptional bowling skills were further highlighted by his achievement of becoming the tenth Australian to take 250 Test wickets.
Despite facing criticism for his views on climate change and his reluctance to appear in advertisements for an energy-company sponsor of Cricket Australia, Cummins remained focused on his cricket. His dedication was evident in his performance in the ICC T20 World Cup in India, where he played a crucial role in Australia’s victory, taking key wickets and showcasing his leadership skills on the field.
Cummins’s success in 2023 has shattered the traditional mold of fast-bowling captains, proving that a pace bowler can lead a team to victory. His ability to lead with a blend of approachability and determination has earned him praise from cricketing legends like Ian Chappell, who likened him to Dennis Lillee.
As Cummins looks ahead to future challenges, including the upcoming ICC T20 World Cup in the USA, he stands as a testament to the power of perseverance and skill in the game of cricket. His achievements in 2023 have firmly established him as one of the leading cricketers in the world, deserving of the title of Wisden’s Leading Cricketer in the World (Men).
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