James Anderson Rates Virat Kohli Just Below Sachin Tendulkar in His Take on Cricket’s Fab Four

In the world of cricket, comparisons often stir passionate debates—whether it’s between generations, formats, or legends. Recently, James Anderson, England’s legendary pace bowler, reignited one such conversation with his candid remarks on the modern-day ‘Fab Four’. When asked to weigh in on the elite group of batters who have dominated international cricket over the past decade—Virat Kohli, Steve Smith, Joe Root, and Kane Williamson—Anderson offered a surprising and heartfelt take.

While many expect a safe, diplomatic response from a veteran like Anderson, the recently retired pacer chose to speak from experience and emotion. And in doing so, he placed Virat Kohli just a notch below the iconic Sachin Tendulkar, acknowledging the Indian superstar’s influence and legacy in the game.

The Fab Four: A Modern Cricketing Dynasty

Cricket fans across the globe recognize the term ‘Fab Four’ as a label assigned to four modern-day batting greats—players who have consistently dominated across formats for over a decade. The quartet includes:

• Virat Kohli (India) – the passionate, aggressive leader known for his consistency and flair
• Steve Smith (Australia) – the eccentric run-machine with an unorthodox style
• Joe Root (England) – the technically gifted maestro with elegant strokes
• Kane Williamson (New Zealand) – the calm, composed tactician with rock-solid temperament

These four names defined batting in the 2010s and early 2020s, setting benchmark after benchmark in Tests, ODIs, and T20s. While their numbers and records vary, they shared the spotlight as modern cricket’s most complete batters.

Anderson’s Pick: Kohli Just Below Tendulkar

When James Anderson—cricket’s highest wicket-taking fast bowler—was asked to reflect on the Fab Four, he didn’t hesitate to offer his personal rankings. What stunned many was his praise for Virat Kohli, who he rated just below Sachin Tendulkar, a player widely considered the greatest batter in cricket history.

“Virat’s passion, his hunger, and the way he carries himself—it’s not just about runs. He changed how Indian cricket approached the game,” Anderson remarked in a recent interview. “If I had to rate him, he’d be just below Sachin, and that’s saying a lot.”

Coming from a cricketer who bowled to both Tendulkar and Kohli, this endorsement carries weight. Anderson not only competed against Kohli for over a decade but also respected the intensity and fight the Indian batter brought to the pitch.

Kohli, Smith, Root, Williamson: Each Mastered Their Craft

Anderson didn’t ignore the brilliance of the others in the Fab Four. Instead, he appreciated each for their unique qualities.

• Steve Smith, with his offbeat technique and outrageous averages, especially in Test cricket, earned Anderson’s respect as the “most difficult batter to figure out.” Despite a controversial phase during the ball-tampering scandal, Smith returned stronger and re-established himself as a pillar of Australia’s batting.
• Joe Root, Anderson’s teammate, received acknowledgment for his elegance and consistency. Anderson called him “a class apart” and admired his ability to step up in critical moments, particularly in the longest format.
• Kane Williamson was hailed for his calmness under pressure and his subtle brilliance. Anderson praised his leadership and the technical finesse he brought to the crease, especially against top-class attacks in testing conditions.

Yet, despite this recognition, Kohli’s overall impact stood out for Anderson.

“It’s more than numbers with Kohli,” Anderson explained. “It’s how he drives the team, how he trains, and the way he’s changed the mindset of Indian cricket. That intensity—it’s unmatched.”

Kohli’s Test Retirement and the Evolution of the Fab Four

With Kohli retiring from Test cricket and Steve Smith stepping away from ODIs, the composition of the Fab Four seems to be entering a new phase. But even with changing formats and roles, the legacy these four have built remains untouchable.

Kohli’s 8,848 Test runs, 29 centuries, and iconic overseas victories stand as testimony to his greatness. Smith’s average, especially in Ashes contests, remains phenomenal. Root has consistently anchored England’s middle order and led through turbulent times. Williamson’s calm demeanor masks a run-machine who thrives under pressure.

These players redefined modern batting. They adapted to different formats without compromising on consistency. They carried their nations during challenging tours and inspired the next generation of cricketers.

James Anderson: The Competitor Who Appreciates Greatness

James Anderson’s opinion doesn’t come from a fan’s point of view—it stems from first-hand experience. Few bowlers in the history of cricket have bowled more overs to these batters than Anderson. He devised plans to dismiss them, watched their technique up close, and battled through sessions against their resilience.

His acknowledgment of Kohli as someone “just below Sachin” speaks volumes. It reflects admiration not just for runs or centuries, but for the influence and leadership Kohli brought to modern cricket.

Anderson didn’t shy away from highlighting Kohli’s emotional intelligence and mental toughness. “Virat doesn’t back down. Whether it’s England, Australia, or South Africa—he thrives on challenges.” That mindset, according to Anderson, separates Kohli from the rest.

What’s Next for the Fab Four?

With Kohli and Smith moving away from certain formats and Root and Williamson continuing their journeys in Test cricket, a new era is slowly unfolding. Young talents like Babar Azam, Marnus Labuschagne, and Shubman Gill are knocking on the door. But for now, the Fab Four’s reign remains intact in cricketing memory.

As teams evolve and new stars rise, comparisons will continue. Yet, as Anderson reminded the world—some cricketers go beyond stats. They leave behind legacies, influence generations, and redefine how cricket is played and perceived.

Conclusion: When Legends Speak, Fans Listen

James Anderson’s heartfelt ranking, placing Virat Kohli just behind Sachin Tendulkar, reflects more than admiration. It reveals how deeply players respect those who elevate the game.

In a world of flashy performances and quick fame, the Fab Four—Kohli, Smith, Root, and Williamson—earned their greatness through consistency, skill, and grit. Anderson’s views only cement their place in cricketing folklore.

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