The title "Godfather of Cricket" is most widely attributed to Sir Donald Bradman , regarded as the true godfather due to his unparalleled impact on the game, with a record Test batting average of 99.94 that remains unmatched and unlikely to be broken. His influence extended beyond records—he transformed cricket into a global spectacle and inspired generations worldwide.
However, there are other notable figures also called godfathers in specific contexts:
- W.G. Grace is often called the "Founding Godfather of Cricket" for transforming cricket from a pastime into a professional sport in England in the late 19th century. He revolutionized batting technique and advocated professionalism, shaping the sport's early development.
- MS Dhoni is termed the "Godfather of Indian Cricket" for redefining India's cricket image in the modern era, leading India to several ICC trophies and popularizing the IPL.
- Sir Garfield Sobers is noted as the godfather of all-rounders, and Sir Vivian Richards is recognized as a fearless icon influencing modern aggressive styles of play.
In summary, Sir Donald Bradman is the most universally recognized as the godfather of cricket in terms of legacy and influence on the sport globally, while W.G. Grace holds a foundational role in cricket's early professional era. The title can also reflect different eras and regional impacts within cricket history.
