Top 10 Best Cricket Commentators of All Time?
From the golden days of radio commentary to today’s HD broadcasts! This is a time when experts, entertainers and former players come together to make the game more exciting. The best commentators don’t just narrate but make you feel every ball, every excitement and every heartbreak.
This guide is run by the top 10 best cricket commentators of all time. The voices of all those legends behind the microphone in the game and who have brought millions closer to their beloved game.
1. Harsha Bhogle: The Voice of Cricket
Often referred to as the “Voice of Cricket”, Harsh Bhogle is one of the most respected and admired commentators worldwide. His deep knowledge of the game and the art of telling stories through commentary have made him an international darling.
- He initiated his commentary career in the early 1990s. He was also the first Indian invited by the Australian Broadcasting Corporation, popularly known as ABC.
- He has anchored many cricket-related programs like Harsha ki Khoj and Out of the Box.
- His views, poetic language, and calm delivery style marked a great contrast with many contemporaries.
Famous Moment:
“The stage was set and Dhoni has finished off the game in a great style, India lift the World Cup after 28 years!”
2. Richie Benaud: The Gentleman Commentator
Before analysis and data, there was Richie. He was the calm, measured Australian voice who shaped modern cricket broadcasting. A former leg-spinner and Australian captain, Beno became the gold standard of cricket commentary.
- Known for his subtle tone, wit, and perfect pauses, Benaud made simplicity sound powerful.
- He was with Channel Nine for more than four decades, reporting on countless Ashes Tests and World Cups.
Legacy:
Rich-ie Benaud’s method inspired era of broadcasters who learned that less is often more in commentary.
3. Tony Greig: The Entertainer
South African-born England captain Tony Greig could play alone in commentary. Known for his booming voice and emotional way of telling stories, Greig was a master at making the moment better.
- Worked with Bill Lawry and Richie Benaud on Channel Nine.
- Famous for his pitch reports and infectious enthusiasm.
- His voice on the 1998 Desert Storm innings by Sachin Tendulkar is unforgettable.
Iconic Line:
“What a player, what a wonderful player! The little master has done it again!”
4. Bill Lawry: The Passionate Aussie
Former Australian captain Bill Lowry brought the game to life with his enthusiasm and witty comments. His chemistry with Tony Greig was legendary.
- A Channel Nine stalwart whose excitable, high-pitched voice is unmistakable.
- Brought comic relief, particularly when clashing on-air with Greig.
Memorable Moment:
In the close finishes in Ashes Tests, Lawry’s emotional tone quickened the heartbeat of aficionados, a proof that he is so attached to the game.
5. Ravi Shastri: The Voice of Indian Cricket
Few have defined the modern moments of Indian cricket like Ravi Shastri. From Yuvraj’s six sixes to Dhoni’s World Cup-winning sixes, Shastri’s energy has shaped cricketing history.
- Began commentary in 1995 and quickly became a household name.
- Known for his phrases, “That’s gone high and handsome!” and “Tracer bullet!”.
- Served as the head coach of India but returned to commentary after 2021.
Famous Quote:
“Dhoni finishes off in style. A magnificent strike into the crowd!”
6. Ian Smith: The Emotion Machine
New Zealand wicketkeeper-turned-commentator Ian is known for his passion and perfect timing. In fact, his call in the 2019 World Cup final still raises eyebrows among fans.
Iconic Line:
“By the barest of margins! England have won the World Cup!”
Smith brings raw emotion and intensity, and he makes every big moment unforgettable.
7. Nasser Hussain: The Analyst
Former England captain Nasser Hussain combines sharp analysis with emotional storytelling. His no-nonsense style and bold opinions make him one of the most respected modern commentators.
- After retiring in 2004, he joined Sky Sports.
- Known for his candid takes and tactical insight.
- His partnerships with Michael Atherton and Ian Ward have become quite a fan favorite.
Unique Trait:
His ability to balance criticism with respect has made Hussain one of the leading analysts across formats.
8. Michael Holding: The Whispering Death
A legend on and off the field, Michael Holding brings pride and dignity to the commentary box. His calm tone and deep cricketing wisdom make him one of the most influential voices in the game.
- Widely regarded for his smooth delivery and analytical dissection of fast bowling.
- Known for emotional commentary moments, like when he spoke powerfully during the Black Lives Matter movement in 2020.
Quote:
“I’m proud to be part of a game that unites people, not divides them.”
9. Simon Doull: The Modern Voice
Kiwi fast bowler and commentator Simon Doll has now emerged as one of the most recognisable voices of modern times, a fact made even more evident in the IPL and T20 World Cup.
- Known for his wit, incisive analysis, and an intuitive chemistry with international co-commentators.
- Provides technical insights into seam bowling, conditions, and strategy.
- Represents the new era of global commentary.
10. Dinesh Karthik: The Future of Commentary
Dinesh Karthik, amongst the newer generation, has redefined cricket broadcasting with fluent speech.
- Began commentary in 2021 with the India–England series.
- Worked for Sky Sports, ICC, and The Hundred.
- His natural flair and balance of emotion and analysis make him a future great.
Famous Moment:
The professionalism and charm that Karthik brought to the 2021 WTC final was highly appreciated by both fans and experts.
Read More: Top 10 Best Cricket Umpires In The World (2025 List)
Conclusion
Commentary in cricket has attained the status of an art form where every ball and every heartbreak resonates. Be it Richie’s composure, Bhogle’s charisma, Ravi’s enthusiasm or Dinesh’s fresh energy, every era has given us great storytellers. These commentators are not just storytellers; they are the custodians of the emotions of cricket! This is because they have turned matches into memories that will be etched in the hearts of fans forever.
FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. Who is considered the greatest cricket commentator of all time?
Ritchie is generally considered one of the greatest critics of all time. This is because he set a standard through his eloquence, authority, and class that many generations have sought to emulate.
Q2. Which Indian commentator is most popular in the world?
Harsh is the most well-known Indian commentator in the world, as his analysis and knowledge of cricket have made him a household name.
Q3. Who is the best modern-day cricket commentator?
Some of the best voices of modern times – those who succeed in mixing analysis with fun – are Nasser, Ian, Simon and Dinesh.
Q4. For what reasons was Richie Benaud such a respected commentator?
Richie Benoit’s commentary was a lesson in restraint. Instead of covering the game with words, he let the game speak for itself. Purpose, humor, and timing made him iconic.
Q5. What makes a great cricket commentator?
A great commentator strikes the perfect balance between knowledge, emotion, and timing. They understand when to discuss or not, or how to engage the fans in everything that is going on on the field.
