The International Cricket Council (ICC) has honoured seven iconic cricketers by inducting them into the ICC Hall of Fame at a prestigious event held in London on Monday.
The gala ceremony, hosted at the iconic Abbey Road Studios, saw ICC Chair Jay Shah welcome the new inductees in a celebration of cricketing excellence.
“Through the ICC Hall of Fame, we pay tribute to the finest players the game has seen—individuals whose remarkable careers have shaped cricket’s legacy and inspired generations,” said Shah. “This year, we are privileged to induct seven truly outstanding individuals into this prestigious group. On behalf of the ICC, I extend my heartfelt congratulations to each of them and hope they cherish this well-deserved recognition as a defining moment in their cricketing journey.”
The Class of 2025
Matthew Hayden (Australia)
A towering and dominant figure at the crease, Hayden was renowned for his aggressive opening style and ability to impose himself on the world’s best bowlers. He scored 8,625 Test runs at an average of 50.73 and was a key member of Australia’s World Cup-winning sides in 2003 and 2007. His 30 Test centuries and scintillating performances at the 2007 World Cup solidified his legacy.
Speaking after his induction, Hayden said: “The ICC Hall of Fame includes many of my heroes of yesteryear as well as contemporaries whom I admired and enjoyed competing against. It is incredible to be recognised along with them.”
Hashim Amla (South Africa)
Amla’s elegant stroke play and quiet leadership made him one of South Africa’s most consistent and respected players. Amassing 9,282 Test runs and 8,113 in ODIs, his career was marked by calm authority and technical mastery. He remains the only South African to score a Test triple-century—an unbeaten 311 against England at The Oval in 2012.
“It is an honour to be inducted into the ICC Hall of Fame, especially alongside Graeme,” Amla said. “Such recognition feels surreal, and I am really thankful.”
MS Dhoni (India)
India’s ‘Captain Cool’, MS Dhoni, was inducted following a glittering international career which saw him lift all three major ICC white-ball trophies—T20 World Cup (2007), ODI World Cup (2011), and Champions Trophy (2013). A brilliant tactician and match-finisher, Dhoni also redefined wicketkeeping in the modern era, with 444 dismissals in ODIs and a reputation for unflappable calm.
“To have your name remembered alongside such all-time greats is a wonderful feeling,” Dhoni reflected. “It is something that I will cherish forever.”
Graeme Smith (South Africa)
At just 22, Smith was thrust into the role of South Africa’s Test captain and went on to become one of the longest-serving and most successful leaders in cricket. With 9,265 Test runs and over 6,900 in ODIs, Smith combined gritty batting with tactical nous, leading the Proteas during one of their most dominant eras.
“This is a proud moment for South Africa, as two of us have got recognition this year,” Smith said.
Daniel Vettori (New Zealand)
Vettori, New Zealand’s most successful spinner, was lauded for his tactical intelligence and contributions with both bat and ball. With 362 Test wickets and over 4,500 Test runs, Vettori was one of only three cricketers to achieve the 4,000 runs and 300 wickets milestone in Test cricket. He also captained New Zealand and is currently an assistant coach with Australia.
“To gain recognition alongside the past inductees is simply overwhelming,” he said. “I can’t find words to describe the feeling.”
Sana Mir (Pakistan)
Breaking new ground, Sana Mir became the first Pakistani woman cricketer inducted into the Hall of Fame. A trailblazer for women’s cricket in Pakistan, Mir claimed 240 international wickets and led her side with distinction. Off the field, she has championed mental health, body positivity, and social causes throughout her career.
“From dreaming as a little girl that one day there would even be a women’s team in our country, to now standing here… this is a moment I couldn’t have dared to imagine,” said Mir.
Sarah Taylor (England)
Regarded as one of the finest wicketkeepers in the women’s game, Taylor earned her place with 4,056 ODI runs and 138 dismissals to her name. Her role in England’s 2009 and 2017 World Cup triumphs was pivotal, showcasing her brilliance both behind and in front of the stumps.
“Being inducted into the ICC Hall of Fame is one of the best moments of my life,” Taylor said. “It truly feels like a dream come true.”
The 2025 class of inductees reflects cricket’s global nature and rich history, spanning eras, continents, and milestones. Their contributions—whether through runs, wickets, leadership or pioneering spirit—have left a lasting legacy on the game.