Have you ever created a custom player in Cricket 07 or any other game?
You know, the perfect all-rounder: aggressive with the bat, bowls pace or spin, a gun fielder—basically, a supercharged Jacques Kallis. Sounds great, right? But what would a three-format player look like in today’s cricket world?
What makes a good Multi-Format Player
First and foremost: elite fitness.
Modern cricket demands players stay injury-free despite the relentless schedule of high-pressure matches. And let’s not forget fielding—it’s not just important anymore; it’s essential. Exceptional fielding gives a young player an edge, setting them apart.
The game has evolved. No score feels safe or unchaseable. Power-hitting is non-negotiable. The best players seamlessly combine finesse and brute strength, switching gears with ease. This versatility is the hallmark of a great multi-format cricketer.
Of course, a solid defensive game remains vital, especially in Test and ODI cricket. Even in T20s, where attack reigns supreme, defensive skills can rescue tight situations. Trust in your defense is a quiet form of confidence, helping batters adapt to diverse conditions.
But it’s not just about skill. The key differentiator? Temperament. The ability to read the game, stay calm under pressure, and shift the momentum when needed. This mental toughness turns good players into great ones.
Building Blocks of a Complete Cricketer
To succeed across formats, a player needs:
- Sound technique
- A dependable defensive game
- Physical strength
Starting in T20s doesn’t close the door on a Test career. It takes vision and adaptability. And for a player like Tristan Stubbs, the potential is there.
Why Tristan Stubbs Stands Out?
Tristan Stubbs is one of the rare talents in world cricket who could shine across formats.
We’ve all seen his explosive T20 performances—he’s a powerhouse.
But recently, he scored a Test hundred batting at No. 3 in Bangladesh, a setting far removed from his comfort zone.
Stubbs brings incredible value to any team. He’s versatile: can bat in different positions, offers handy off-spin, and is electric in the field. Oh, and he can keep wickets.
What more could you ask for in a young cricketer?
Well, maybe a bit of luck. And yes, that includes social media. Like it or not, social media buzz can impact a player’s career trajectory.
Talent alone isn’t always enough. Many skilled players have failed to make their mark across formats. It takes vision—knowing how to shape your career intentionally. Whether you’re an employee, a business owner, or a professional cricketer, career planning matters.
Another crucial factor to consider is WILL
Wether a player is willing to play 3 formats? Most of them will say Hell Yeah.
Are they ready to undergo rigorous training, criticism, drills, and injuries 200 days a year? Plus franchise leagues.
So many players in the past have called time on their careers early for the abovementioned factors. Ab de Villiers, Quinton de Kock, Shane Watson, or some have been sidelined because selectors don’t think the player can play all 3 formats
IPL Bonanza
Opportunities abound for players in demand for T20 leagues. Choosing the right tournaments can significantly influence a cricketer’s career path.
Stubbs’ retention in the IPL is a massive boost ($1.18m). It secures his financial future for the next few years, allowing him to focus on his international career. He’ll likely play in the SA20, South Africa’s answer to the IPL, and can carefully pick other T20 leagues.
With financial security in place, Stubbs can be patient and seize every international opportunity. There are no guarantees of success, but it’s a journey worth pursuing.
Conclusion
Historically, successful multi-format players started in Tests and expanded their game to ODIs and T20s. Think of Virat Kohli—arguably the best across formats. His ability to adapt to different conditions and situations sets him apart.
But replicating KIng Kohli’s success is no easy task.
For modern T20 stars, the best strategy is to leverage their strengths and gradually develop the skills required for Test cricket. Even seasoned domestic red-ball pros struggle to crack the Test arena. But trying is essential.
Players like Tristan Stubbs, jake Fraser-McGurk(hopefully), Yashasvi Jaiswal, and Harry Brook etc have a chance to lead the modern batters unit.
