The 2025 edition of the Wisden Cricketers’ Almanack has unveiled its prestigious annual recognitions, with Jasprit Bumrah earning the title of Leading Cricketer in the World and three standout England players—Gus Atkinson, Jamie Smith, and Sophie Ecclestone—being named among the Five Cricketers of the Year. Bumrah’s compatriot, Smriti Mandhana, made it an India double by being named as Wisden’s Leading Women’s Cricketer in the World
“In an eventful year for Indian cricket, their success depended largely, if not entirely, on one factor: whether or not he had the ball,” the publication wrote in high praise of Bumrah, the 31-year-old pace spearhead who continues to redefine fast bowling across all formats. His commanding presence and consistent match-winning spells set him apart on the global stage. As Wisden put it: “Rarely has a cricketer stood out so overwhelmingly as he did in 2024.”
While Bumrah’s brilliance stole the international spotlight, England’s domestic and international circuits were dominated by a fresh wave of talent. Gus Atkinson’s express pace, Jamie Smith’s dynamic presence behind the stumps and with the bat, and Sophie Ecclestone’s continued excellence with the ball have all earned them Wisden’s coveted recognition as Cricketers of the Year.
Sophie Ecclestone, already one of the world’s top-ranked spinners in women’s cricket, further solidified her legacy with pivotal performances throughout the year. Jamie Smith, hailed for his consistent contributions with both gloves and bat, emerged as a key figure in England’s Test setup. Gus Atkinson’s speed and breakout performances, particularly in red-ball cricket, impressed selectors and fans alike.
The Wisden honours not only celebrate individual brilliance but also reflect the shifting landscape of modern cricket—where youth, versatility, and consistency define the game’s new era. The 2025 Almanack reaffirms that as legends rise, fresh stars continue to illuminate the field.
