England great Alastair Cook also joins the list of greats
( DUBAI )The ICC announced the induction of three cricketing legends into the ICC Hall of Fame on Wednesday: England’s Alastair Cook, India’s Neetu David, and South Africa’s AB de Villiers.
Alastair Cook, one of the finest opening batters in Test cricket history, has secured his place in the ICC Hall of Fame, further solidifying his legacy. Renowned for his patience, technique, and focus, Cook’s international career spanned over 12 years. During that time, he redefined consistency as a Test opener and set numerous records. Cook retired as England’s all-time leading run-scorer and remains among the top six in the world even six years after his retirement.
Cook’s career highlights include his instrumental roles in two of England’s greatest overseas victories: the 2010-11 Ashes series and the 2012 Test series in India. As captain, Cook led England to several notable series wins abroad, demonstrating remarkable leadership. His mental toughness was on full display during his world-record 159 consecutive Test appearances.
Reflecting on his induction, Cook admitted he was surprised. “It was a surprise, and certainly just when you read the list of people that you’re joining, it’s a great list to have joined. I feel very privileged,” Cook said.
Neetu David becomes the second Indian woman to enter the ICC Hall of Fame, following Diana Edulji’s induction in 2023. A dominant spinner, David made over 100 appearances for India and remains the second-highest wicket-taker in women’s ODI cricket with 141 wickets. She was also the first Indian woman to claim 100 ODI wickets. David’s standout performance was her record-breaking 8/53 against England in a 1995 Test match, which still holds as the best bowling figures by a woman in a single Test innings.
In recent years, David has contributed to the game off the field as the selection chair for India’s women’s team, playing a key role in ushering in a new professional era for women’s cricket in India.
AB de Villiers, known for his versatility and innovation, is regarded as one of the most destructive batters of the modern game. During his 14-year international career, de Villiers scored over 20,000 runs across all formats and was also one of the greatest fielders in the sport. When he retired in 2018, de Villiers had a batting average of over 50 in both Test and ODI cricket, a feat only surpassed in South African cricket by Jacques Kallis.
On his induction, de Villiers said, “It is a tremendous honour to be inducted into the ICC Hall of Fame, joining a select group of cricketers to be recognised in this way. Cricket is often described as an individual sport within a team game… but everyone who plays cricket understands it is, in spirit, a team game. I would have achieved nothing without the help and support of so many teammates, coaches, and support staff.”