Ideal opening pair for the best team in the modern era of Test cricket

The best team that would win in the 21st century should include some of the legendary Test players of the modern era. The ideal openers of the ultimate Test team should have some incredible quality to help the team make some good runs in the beginning.

Starting from 2001, there have been many legendary Test cricketers who have defied odds to give the viewers incredible cricketing moments. It is difficult to pick just 2 top openers in the 21st century but the list is as follow:

Graeme Smith of South Africa

At 22 years old, Graeme Smith led the charge of the South African team and transformed it into a force to reckon with. The South African unit challenged the supremacy of the Australian Test team and constantly won in overseas matches. Graeme Smith established himself as the captain with the most successful captain with the highest Test wins under his belt. He was also one of the best opening batsmen who maintained an average of 35 or up in any country he played.

Thereby, Smith would be the perfect captain and opener for the team.

Virender Sehwag of India

Virender Sehwag was one of the best openers for India. He redefined the role of an opener with his ballistic technique and uncomplicated philosophy. He played with the idea that cricket is about scoring most runs by hitting the ball around the stadium. He would smash the ball hard with the bat and make maximum runs in no time. His footwork was not the best but he compensated for it with incredible handwork.

Sehwag was the first Indian player to make a triple century. He could have been the first Indian with three triple tons but missed the mark by trying to hit a six. Moreover, Sehwag was a good off-spinner with 40 Test wickets.

Graeme Smith and Sehwag had opened together in the past in the Super Test. It was played between ICC World XI and Australia in 2005.

Read more articles