Most sports players aim to be tall. Being tall boosts looks and game success. In cricket, a height of 6.2 feet is key. It aids in catching high shots and quickly reaching the ball.
The Indian cricket team has seen tall players. They excelled in bowling and batting. Despite India’s average male height being 5.8 feet, tall players have shone globally.
Cricket in India is a major passion, almost like a religion. The country has a large, dedicated fan base and a history of top players. These players have taken the game to new levels. Legends like Kapil Dev and Sachin Tendulkar, along with current stars like Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma, have made remarkable achievements and unforgettable moments.
In this blog, we’ll focus on the tallest Indian cricketers in India. These players have not only shown exceptional skills but also stood out for their height on the field. We’ll look at their profiles and how they’ve made a lasting impact on the sport.
10 Current Tallest Indian Cricketers
1] Ishant Sharma [6 ft 5 inches]
Ishant Sharma, a renowned Indian cricketer, stands out for his 6 feet 5 inches height. His height is a big advantage. It helps him generate bounce with his long strides and high arm action, making him a top threat to batsmen on supportive pitches. Since his 2007 debut, he has been key in India’s bowling lineup. In 105 Tests, he has taken 311 wickets at an average of 32.40, including 11 five-wicket hauls. He has also played in 80 ODIs, taking 115 wickets at an average of 30.98.
In the 2008 series in Australia, Ishant’s bowling against Ricky Ponting is still remembered. His spell in Perth, where he relentlessly troubled Ponting, is seen as a great display of Indian fast bowling.
Ishant has been crucial in India’s overseas wins, especially in England, Australia, and South Africa. His ability to extract bounce and movement has been key in Test cricket.
Apart from Tests, Ishant has shone in the Indian Premier League (IPL). He has represented several teams, claiming 72 wickets in 93 matches.
His height, skills, and experience have made him a force in cricket. He’s a role model for young bowlers, especially in Test cricket.
2] Ravichandran Ashwin [6 ft 2 inches]
Ravi Ashwin, at 6 feet 2 inches, is among India’s tallest and most successful spinners. His height, skill, and tactics have been key for both Test and limited-overs cricket. He’s known for his turn and bounce, placing him at the top among spin bowlers globally.
He has taken over 650 wickets, showcasing his lasting impact. In Tests, he has played 94 matches, taking 474 wickets at an average of 23.93. He has an impressive record, with 34 five-wicket hauls and 7 ten-wicket match hauls. His best innings bowling is 7 for 59.
In ODIs, he has played 113 matches, taking 151 wickets at an average of 33.49. His best figures are 4 for 25. In T20Is, he has played 65 matches, taking 72 wickets at an average of 22.94. His best figures are 4 for 8.
Ashwin is known for his ability to perform under pressure. He often breaks key partnerships and shifts matches in India’s favor. Notable examples include the 2016 ICC World T20 and his vital role in home Test series.
His significant role in India’s historic series win in Australia in 2020-21 stands out. Despite injuries, he led the defense in the Sydney Test. His match-saving partnership with Hanuma Vihari in Brisbane was crucial.
Ashwin is also a skilled lower-order batsman, with four Test centuries. His highest score is 124. He has often contributed valuable runs in tight situations.
His impact, both physically and in his skills, makes him one of India’s top spinners. His strategic thinking and versatility ensure he remains a vital asset for the Indian team.
3] Arshdeep Singh [6 ft 1 inch]
Arshdeep Singh, a 6-foot-3-inch cricket player, is a rising star in Indian cricket. He stands out for his fast-medium bowling skills. Since his 2022 debut, he has been key to India’s wins.
In the 2022 ICC T20 World Cup, Arshdeep shined. He could swing the ball, was fast, and accurate. He took 10 wickets in 6 matches, averaging 15.60 and an economy rate of 7.80. Notably, he took 3 for 12 against Bangladesh.
In T20 Internationals, Arshdeep has played 31 matches, taking 48 wickets at an average of 18.54 and an economy rate of 8.26. His yorkers and variations in the death overs are crucial. He’s taken two four-wicket hauls, with his best 4 for 37 against the West Indies.
In the IPL, Arshdeep stands out for Punjab Kings. In the 2022 season, he took 14 wickets in 13 matches, averaging 19.77 and an economy rate of 7.70.
Despite his youth and limited experience, Arshdeep is a key player. His calm and maturity are notable. He adapts quickly to conditions, making him a versatile bowler.
Arshdeep’s success hints at a bright future in Indian cricket. His skills and mindset are sure to anchor the bowling attack.
4] Washinton Sunder [6 ft 1 inch]
Washington Sundar, an Indian cricket rising star, debuted in 2017. Born on October 5, 1999, in Tamil Nadu, India, he stands at 6 feet tall. Despite his height, Sundar boasts exceptional talent.
He is an off-spin bowler and left-handed batsman. He shines in the Indian Premier League (IPL) with the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB). His skills include a good economy rate, wicket-taking, and scoring. In the IPL, he has played 58 matches, taking 35 wickets at an average of 33.80, with an economy rate of 7.25. His best bowling figures are 3 for 16.
Sundar also plays for India in limited-overs cricket. He debuted in T20 Internationals against Sri Lanka in December 2017. In T20Is, he has played 35 matches, taking 29 wickets at an average of 29.27 and an economy rate of 7.24. His best figures are 3 for 22.
In One Day Internationals (ODIs), Sundar has played 17 matches, taking 18 wickets at an average of 29.94 and an economy rate of 5.09. His best figures are 3 for 30.
One of his standout performances was in India’s historic Test series win against Australia in 2020-21. He made his Test debut at the Gabba, contributing 62 runs in the first innings. This eased India’s recovery from a tough position with Shardul Thakur. He also took crucial wickets, showing his all-round skills. In Test cricket, he has played 4 matches, scoring 265 runs at an average of 66.25, with 6 wickets at an average of 49.83.
Sundar’s calm attitude and smart play have earned praise. His ability to perform under pressure and his all-round skills make him invaluable to the Indian team.
As Sundar’s career progresses, his versatile skills promise a bright future. His early success and potential suggest he will play a key role in the Indian team, with more memorable games ahead.
5] Deepak Hooda [6 ft 1 inch]
Deepak Hooda, born on April 19, 1995, in Rohtak, Haryana, is a talented Indian cricketer. He shines in both batting and bowling, proving his worth in all game formats.
Hooda started playing early and quickly gained recognition. In his first season, he scored 415 runs in six matches for Baroda. This included two centuries and a fifty.
The next season was even better. He led Baroda to the Ranji Trophy quarterfinals, scoring 524 runs in nine matches. His highest score was 192. He also bowled well, making him stand out.
In List A cricket, Hooda impressed. By 2023, he had played 86 matches, scoring 2,493 runs and taking 34 wickets. His best score was 161*. His best bowling was 5/52.
In T20s, Hooda gained experience, especially in the IPL. He played for Rajasthan Royals, Sunrisers Hyderabad, and Kings XI Punjab. In the IPL, he scored 1,010 runs in 95 matches and took 10 wickets. His highest score was 64*.
Hooda debuted for India in a T20I against Sri Lanka in February 2022. He’s known for his aggressive middle-order batting and economical bowling. By 2023, he had played 25 T20Is, scoring 451 runs and taking 8 wickets. His best bowling was 4/10.
Hooda’s success shows his dedication. His skills make him a valuable player in different situations. He is set to become a key player for India in the future, both in domestic and international cricket.
6] Axar Patel [6 ft]
At 6 feet tall, Akshar Patel uses his height for effective spin. He makes life hard for batsmen. His success comes from his physique, dedication, and hard work.
Since joining the Indian team, Patel has been consistent. His left-arm spin and accurate pitching are vital in Tests and shorter formats.
In 2021, Patel shone against England. He took 27 wickets in three Tests, averaging 10.59. His best was 6/38. His 11/70 in the third Test in Ahmedabad was key to India’s win.
In Tests, Patel played 14 matches, taking 64 wickets at an average of 14.35. He has five five-wicket hauls and one ten-wicket match haul. His economy rate is 2.26.
In ODIs, Patel played 49 matches, taking 58 wickets at an average of 30.44. His best was 3/34. His economy rate is 4.43. In T20Is, he played 44 matches, taking 37 wickets at an average of 24.91. His economy rate is 6.81, with best figures of 3/9.
Patel’s hard work was evident in the 2021 series. He got the Player of the Series award for his efforts.
Patel isn’t just a bowler. He’s a handy lower-order batsman. His all-round skills and dedication make him a valuable player for India.
7] Hardik Pandya [6ft]
Hardik Pandya is a crowd favorite. He is an all-rounder known for his explosive batting, precise bowling, and athletic fielding. At 6 feet tall, he’s a key player in the Indian cricket team.
His journey to the national team started in domestic cricket. His IPL performances caught selectors’ eyes. He debuted in January 2016 and has since been vital to the team.
Pandya’s aggressive batting often shifts games in India’s favor. In ODIs, he scored 1,584 runs in 77 matches at an average of 33.68. He has four half-centuries and a high score of 92. In T20Is, he scored 1,271 runs in 87 matches, with a strike rate of 141.47. He has four fifties and a high score of 71*.
His medium-fast deliveries are effective in limited-overs cricket. In ODIs, he took 79 wickets at an average of 37.89, with best figures of 4/24. In T20Is, he claimed 69 wickets at an average of 27.96, with best figures of 4/33.
Pandya shines in the IPL. For the Mumbai Indians, he’s pivotal in their title wins. His IPL stats include 1,969 runs at an average of 29.47, a strike rate of 142.22, and 50 wickets. His best bowling figures are 3/17.
His standout moment was in the 2017 ICC Champions Trophy against Pakistan. He scored 76 off 43 balls. His aggressive style and boundary-hitting make him a dangerous lower-order batsman.
Pandya also stands out in Test cricket. He played 11 matches, scoring 532 runs at an average of 31.29. He has a century and four fifties. With the ball, he took 17 wickets at 31.05, with 5/28 being his best.
Beyond stats, Pandya’s energy and confidence boost the team. He’s a game-changer with both bat and ball. His rise from domestic cricket showcases his talent, dedication, and hard work.
8] Umesh Yadav [5ft 11 inches]
Umesh Yadav, standing at 5 feet 11 inches, is one of India’s shorter cricketers. Despite this, his impact on the field is significant. He joined the team in 2010 and quickly established himself in the fast bowling lineup.
Yadav is known for his speed and bounce, despite his height. His style, marked by raw pace and seam movement, often troubles batsmen.
Since his debut, Yadav has consistently taken key wickets. He excels at building pressure and picking off opponents.
In Test cricket, he has over 150 wickets in 51 matches, averaging around 30. His best innings were 6/88, with five five-wicket hauls. In ODIs, he has over 100 wickets in 75 games, averaging around 34. His best figures are 4/31. In T20Is, he has over 50 wickets in 47 matches, averaging around 28. His best is 4/24.
Yadav shines in domestic and IPL matches, proving his worth as a fast bowler. Despite injuries and competition, he consistently delivers. His dedication and work ethic have earned him respect.
In summary, Yadav, though not the tallest, has shown immense talent and skill. His performances inspire others and highlight the importance of hard work in cricket.
9] K L RAHUL [ 5ft 11 inches]
K L Rahul, the Indian batsman, is 5 feet 11 inches tall. He debuted in 2014, quickly becoming a top Indian batsman.
Rahul is known for his adaptability. He shines in various roles and formats. He adjusts well, making him crucial for India.
In the IPL, he stands out for Punjab Kings. His style and consistency have won him fans.
By 2023, Rahul scored over 2,000 runs in 40 Test matches, averaging around 34. His best score is 199. In ODIs, he hit over 1,800 runs in 39 matches, averaging around 47. His best is 112. In T20Is, he scored over 1,600 runs in 57 matches, averaging around 41. His best is 110*.
His consistent high-level play has made him one of India’s top batsmen. His grace and skills are key to India’s success.
In short, K L Rahul is more than his height. His talent, adaptability, and consistency make him a cricket star. His role in India’s achievements is crucial.
10] Deepak Chahar [5 ft 10 inches]
In 2018, Deepak Chahar debuted in international cricket as a right-arm medium-pacer. He quickly established himself as a top bowler in all formats. His key strength is swinging the ball. This makes him tough for any opponent. Notably, his best game was against Bangladesh in 2019. He took 6 wickets for just 7 runs, securing India’s win.
Aside from his bowling, Chahar is a handy batsman. His unbeaten 69 runs against Sri Lanka in 2021 helped India win the series.
As of 2023, in One Day Internationals (ODIs), Chahar has taken over 30 wickets in 28 matches, averaging around 25. In T20 Internationals (T20Is), he has claimed more than 60 wickets in 47 matches, averaging around 22.
Chahar’s consistent performances and calm in pressure have earned him praise. He is a key player for India, contributing with both bat and ball.
10 Tallest Indian Cricketers of All Time
1] Ishant Sharma [6 ft 4 inches]
2] Munaf Patel [6ft 3 inches]
Munaf Patel, a 6-foot-3 right-arm medium-fast bowler, led India’s cricket team in his time. He was known for his skill, despite not being the tallest. Patel bowled with precision, skillful swing, and smart variations, making him a challenge for any batsman.
In 2006, he debuted internationally. Patel played a key role in India’s 2011 World Cup win. His consistent performance in several matches was crucial to India’s successes. He was admired for his ability to handle pressure.
Unfortunately, injuries forced Patel to retire in 2018. His knee issues cut his career short. Despite this, Patel’s contributions to Indian cricket won’t be forgotten.
Upon retiring, Patel’s One Day International (ODI) record included over 80 wickets in 70 matches, averaging around 31. In Test cricket, he took more than 35 wickets in 13 matches, averaging about 40.
Munaf Patel’s legacy in Indian cricket is still cherished by fans.
3] Arshdeep Singh [6 ft 3 inches]
4] Java gal Srinath [6ft 2 inches]
Javagal Srinath, the famous Indian fast bowler, made a lasting impact in cricket from 1991 to 2003. Standing at 6 feet 2 inches, he was known for his quick, swinging deliveries, which troubled batsmen.
Notably, Srinath consistently bowled faster than 140 km/h, a rarity among Indian bowlers then. His speed and swing often baffled batsmen.
He excelled in both Test and limited-overs cricket, contributing significantly to India’s wins.
In the 2003 World Cup, Srinath played a key role in India reaching the final. His bowling performances earned him praise.
At retirement, Srinath had taken over 230 Test wickets in 67 matches, with an average of around 30. In ODIs, he took more than 300 wickets in 229 matches, averaging about 28.
His legacy as one of India’s best fast bowlers lives on, inspiring future cricketers and becoming a part of cricket history.
5] Yusuf Pathan [6ft 2 inches]
Yusuf Pathan, a former Indian cricketer, was known for his powerful batting and off-spin bowling. He was born on November 17, 1982, in Baroda, Gujarat, India. Pathan started in domestic cricket and later played for India.
In 2007, he debuted in an ODI against Pakistan. Quickly, he became a regular in India’s one-day team. Pathan played key roles in India’s wins at the 2007 ICC World Twenty20 and the 2011 ICC Cricket World Cup.
His talent for hitting sixes and scoring quickly made him a vital part of India’s batting lineup. He also often took crucial wickets with his off-spin.
Pathan shone in the Indian Premier League (IPL) for the Rajasthan Royals and the Kolkata Knight Riders. He was a standout all-rounder in the league.
Despite varying stats, Pathan’s impact on the game and his ability to handle pressure are clear in his legacy.
6] Ravichandra Ashwin [6 ft 2 inches]
7] Yuvraj Singh [6ft 1.5 inches]
Yuvraj Singh, or “Yuvi,” is a cricket icon in India. Born on December 12, 1981, in Chandigarh, he started playing cricket young, showing immense talent and dedication.
He debuted in 2000 at the ICC KnockOut Trophy, quickly winning fans with his powerful batting and excellent fielding. Known for his aggressive style and dominance over bowlers, he became a key player for India.
His peak moments were the 2007 ICC World Twenty20 and 2011 ICC Cricket World Cup. His brilliant performances were crucial in India’s victories. Fans loved his explosive batting and acrobatic fielding, making him a legend.
Off the field, Yuvraj faced cancer with bravery, inspiring millions with his successful return. His story highlights his resilience, courage, and commitment to cricket, making him more than just a player.
8] Anil Kumble [6ft 1 inch]
Anil Kumble, though not tall, is a giant in Indian cricket. At 6 feet 1 inch, his height on the field matched his success.
He started in 1990, playing for 18 years. Kumble’s precise bowling and ability to get turn and bounce made him a top spin bowler.
In 1999, he made history by taking all 10 wickets in an innings against Pakistan, a rare feat. He is one of the best spin bowlers ever.
Kumble took 619 Test wickets, ranking third all-time. His dedication and pursuit of excellence make him an Indian cricket legend.
9] Irfan Pathan [6 ft 1 inch]
Irfan Pathan, the former Indian cricketer, began his international career in 2003. He was born on October 27, 1984, in Vadodara, Gujarat, India. At 6 feet 1 inch, he was one of the tallest Indian cricketers of his time.
Pathan quickly stood out for his fast, swinging balls in both Test and One Day International (ODI) cricket. He helped India win the ICC World T20 in 2007 with his impressive bowling.
In 2006, Pathan became the second-fastest Indian bowler to reach 100 Test wickets, achieving this in just 28 matches. He also holds the record for the fastest Indian to get 100 ODI wickets, doing it in 59 matches.
His lethal swing bowling and key role in India’s success have made him a cricket legend in India.
10] Ashish Nehra [6ft]
Ashish Nehra was a well-known Indian fast bowler. He was born in Delhi on April 29, 1979. Nehra debuted in 1999. Standing at 6 feet tall, he was among the tallest Indian bowlers.
His career was full of highlights, such as the 2003 ICC Cricket World Cup. In a match against England, he took 6 wickets for 23 runs, impressing fans.
Nehra also played a key role in India’s 2007 ICC World T20 victory. In the final against Pakistan, he contributed significantly.
His skill in swinging the ball and getting crucial wickets made him a key figure in Indian cricket.
FAQ: Tallest Cricketer in India
1. Who is the tallest cricketer in India?
There are two contenders for the title of tallest cricketer in India, both exceeding 6 feet 4 inches:
- Ishant Sharma: A veteran fast bowler, Ishant Sharma stands tall at 6 feet 4 inches. His height has been a significant asset in his career, allowing him to generate steep bounce and pace.
- Abey Kuruvilla and Pankaj Singh (less common): These two lesser-known players are also reported to be 6 feet 6 inches tall.
2. Who is the tallest cricketer in the world?
The title of tallest cricketer in the world goes to Mohammad Irfan from Pakistan. He stands a staggering 7 feet 1 inch tall.
3. Does height necessarily make a good cricketer?
Tallness helps some roles, like fast bowlers who increase bounce. Yet, it’s not the only factor. For example, cricket legends like Sachin Tendulkar and Sunil Gavaskar were shorter. They excelled through skill, technique, and strategy.