Saeed Ajmal picks top 5 players in modern cricket

Former Pakistan off-line Saeed Ajmal remains one of the most influential spin bowlers of the modern era. At his peak, Ajmal was virtually unplayable, combining sharp turns, subtle variations and relentless accuracy to dominate batters in all formats. With over 400 international wickets to his name, Ajmal played a key role in Pakistan’s success in the late 2000s and early 2010s, redefining the way spinners could control games even outside traditional sub-continental conditions.

The changing demands of spinners in modern cricket

In today’s game, spin bowling has evolved further. With flatter pitches, heavier bats and an aggressive batting mentality, modern spinners need to be tactically astute rather than simply relying on their spin. Flight, deception, changes of pace and intelligent use of territory have become essential weapons. As T20 and ODI cricket continue to dominate the calendar, spinners who can outplay batters often make the difference between winning and losing.

Speaking on Champions Playbook PodcastAjmal today shared his views on the art of spin bowling and revealed his list of the top five spinners in modern cricket, praising those who combine intelligence and skill.

Saeed Ajmal reveals his top five spinners of the modern era

Ajmal started his list by naming an Indian all-rounder Ravindra Jadejahighlighting its immense value in all formats. Jadeja’s ability to bowl economically, apply pressure and take crucial wickets has made him one of the most reliable spinners in world cricket. His crisp left-arm spin, combined with exceptional depth of play and strike, places him among the most complete cricketers of the modern era.

At number two, Ajmal chose Kuldeep Yadavreserving special praise for the Indian player’s prowess with the white ball. Ajmal was unequivocal in his assessment, calling Kuldeep the best white-ball bowler currently in the game. He praised Kuldeep’s sharp turn, his ability to drift the ball in the air and his commitment to giving the ball flight – qualities which Ajmal described as the mark of intelligent bowling.

“The best white ball player at the moment is Kuldeep Yadav. There is no doubt about it, I like Kuldeep a lot. He spins the ball sharply and also makes it break in the air. Even though Kuldeep is Indian, I want to see the best, and that is why Kuldeep is at the top. Watch his videos; he puts a lot of effort into giving the ball flight. This is called smart bowling – bowling that doesn’t come bats easily, and Kuldeep does just that,” Ajmal said.

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England’s first player Adil Rachid was Ajmal’s next choice. The former Pakistan spinner admired Rashid’s variations and control, particularly his flipper, noting how effectively Rashid uses his body weight to generate deception. Rashid’s consistency in ICC tournaments and bilateral series has cemented his reputation as one of the best limited-overs spinners in the world.

“He’s a good thrower, man, he bowls exceptionally well. His variations and flight are incredible. When he plays with a pinball machine, you can see how he uses his weight with it,” added Ajmal

Ajmal completed his list by naming New Zealand Mitchell Santner and Australia Adam Zampa. He praised Santner for his intelligent variations of pace and control, qualities that make him particularly effective in pressure situations. On Zampa, Ajmal offered a more measured assessment, acknowledging his effectiveness and his role in Australia’s success on the white ball.

“Santner is good, he also has great variations in pace. Zampa is doing well,” Ajmal added.

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