“Three of the game’s greats have become the latest inductees into the ICC Cricket Hall of Fame,” the ICC wrote in its statement.
A pioneer in women’s cricket, Edulji became the first Indian woman in the ICC Hall of Fame.
“First, I would like to thank the ICC and the jury for selecting me for inclusion in the 2023 ICC Hall of Fame,” Edulji said. “It is truly a great honor to be the first Indian woman cricketer to be inducted and to join a galaxy of cricketers, both male and female, from all over the world.
“I am delighted to be nominated for this award. It is not only a proud moment for me, my family and friends, but also for BCCI and Indian women’s cricket.”
Edulji, a former India captain, played 20 Tests and 34 ODIs in a career spanning three decades. A left-arm spinner, she took 107 wickets across formats. She then made an impact as an administrator, working to increase employment opportunities for women cricketers in India.
“Edulji has perhaps had a greater impact off the field, playing a key role as a pioneer for Indian women cricketers for many decades,” the ICC wrote.
Sehwag, the explosive opener, played 104 Tests, 251 ODIs and 19 T20Is for India and was part of the teams that won the 2011 ODI World Cup and 2007 T20 World Cup.
“I would like to thank the ICC and the jury for giving me this honor,” Sehwag said. “I feel very grateful that I spent a large part of my life doing what I loved most, which was batting a cricket ball.”
His strike rate of 82.23 is a testimony that he has not only scored a large number of runs, but has done so in quick time as well.
He has scored 6361 runs in 93 Tests while scoring 9284 runs in 308 ODIs.
“I am deeply grateful as I accept the great honor of being inducted into the ICC Hall of Fame. This achievement is a tribute to the dedication, sacrifice and love that has shaped my cricketing journey,” De Silva said. “My family, my parents, my sister, my wife and my children are my anchor and deserve deep gratitude for their unwavering support and sacrifices, which have propelled me towards success. My friends, my steadfast companions throughout my highest highs and lowest lows, have been my pillars of strength.
“To my coaches, teachers, fans and supporters, your continued belief in me has fueled my drive to succeed. My mentors and leaders have guided and inspired me, and my teammates have been my extended family on this incredible journey. To those I have played against, thank you for enriching my game.
“My sincere appreciation to the ICC and the Hall of Fame Voting Committee for this exceptional honor. I share this honor with everyone who has stood by me and shaped me.”
