Adam Gilchrist

Adam Gilchrist did not just keep wicket for Australia; he rewired the position. As vice-captain he was the heartbeat of Steve Waugh's and then Ricky Ponting's dominant sides, setting the tone with blistering counter-attacks. His 204 not out against South Africa at Johannesburg in 2002, then the fastest double century in Test history, was controlled violence that forced bowlers to rethink their plans. He was just as decisive in one-day cricket, hammering 149 in the 2007 World Cup final against Sri Lanka, having already lifted the trophy in 1999 and 2003.

His career totals remain remarkable: around 5,570 Test runs at 47, more than 9,600 in ODIs, and over 400 dismissals in each format. He made it normal to pick a wicketkeeper primarily for his runs, and famously walked when he believed he was out. Since retiring in 2008 he has been a thoughtful ambassador for the game, taking on commentary and mentoring roles including in the IPL. Few players have shaped an era so completely; the modern attacking keeper-batter follows a template Gilchrist created.