Considering the ever-changing nature of the sport, especially in recent times (rules, technology introductions, commercialism, increased no. of matches, competition), I came to the conclusion a while ago that the scenario changes drastically in cricket over a period of ± 4 years.
I’m a firm believer of this theory and this logic also lends some sort of benchmark and background structure to “best player” discussions and the sort. For me, a “best player” is only as good as his current game and the situation(s) he is playing under (team-wise and his own physical condition). His performances of 4+ yrs ago are remembered but are no reason to reconsider him as superb player of the time. Cases in point: Saeed Anwar and Brian Lara. Noone doubts their immense talent and awesome game. But they have not always been the “best player” at every given time throughout their career. (A rare honor reserved for the all-time greats). Which is why it seems a bit silly to still refer to Anwar to the “best left-handed opener” and Lara as “the WI’s cornerstone” before WC’03 (and a long period at that- dating back to at least 96-97).
And then, there are the greats. Bradman, Tendulkar, Wasim etc. Who will always be remembered for who they were: giants of the game.
Why 4 yrs? It’s not to do with the World Cup’s scheduled roll-around, although it’s a good measuring stick. But 4 yrs seems to be a period during which matters do take a dramatic enough shift to define them collectively as a seperate “mini-era” if you will. It’s not only the players’ performances, but also the nature of the game that’s a big variable in the equation. Rule changes (bouncer etc.), use of technology (3rd umpire, speed gun) and of course ODI totals. The “reasonably good total” seems to creep up by 15-20 odd runs every 4 yrs as well. Today’s 280 was 1999’s 265, which was 1995’s 250 and so on.
Any views/suggestions on this? I’d especially like to hear from those who’re versed with the game before the early 90’s (when I started following it), and pre late 80’s which I’ve only read about and seen clips and highlights of. Exhibits A and B here would be Alan Knott and Zaheer Abbas - 2 players who I’ve heard so much about but have never seen the games of.
