McGrath/Tendulkar or Imran/Kallis

[TheJediBrah]

You also believe that there is a clear, distinct and quite large divide between Sachin and Kallis, based purely on strike rate.

There is but it's not purely because of strike rate

 

[kyear2]

I know, but that was your implication.

I've always said the difference between Sachin and Lara is small.

I do consider a big divide between Kallis and Sachin.

But my point, which you have yet to address, is that cricket captains in real game play don't think as linear with stats as we do. They judge based on conditions and abilities and the balance of the side. They won't give a damn about arbitrary top 10 lists.

Based on which, Kallis and Imran will definitely be considered at least some of the time in the respective teams.

Now, in clear English, can you explain the reasoning why an Indian and Aussie captain will only consider Tendulkar and McGrath in their teams in the 2000s? Don't dodge

I'll take it with regards to the players that Australia had.

I will say clearly and without doubt, there's no way Australia would trade away Ponting for Kallis. Ponting was a continuance of what Hayden and Langer started, he was the ultimate attacker, counter puncher, a maestro vs fast bowling. He set the tone of the lineup, he was the man. Not trading that for Kallis's bowling, and they were both equally sublime in the slips.

There are only two bowlers I wouldn't give up for Imran, Marshall and McGrath. And this isn't against Imran, this is everyone. Those two had intangibles that I haven't seen with other bowlers who gave you a chance in all conditions. Also tell me how many games Australia lost during that time period, they didn't lack from not having that lower order batting, they feasted having McGrath leading the attack.
Not only did he take wickets, he took top order wickets, he was well suited for the wickets at home and the old enemy, he worked. So if mid way through his career they were sked if u wanted Imran and you'll get extra batting, an area they didn't particularly lack? We might disagree, but why change it up. He was superb at home and simply excellent away... Why?

 

[subshakerz]

So if mid way through his career they were sked if u wanted Imran and you'll get extra batting, an area they didn't particularly lack? We might disagree, but why change it up. He was superb at home and simply excellent away... Why?

Because Imran as a bowler brings his own strengths which McGrath might not have, especially in SC. And Imran might occasionally allow Australia to have a five man bowling attack. Plus the extra batting would be more useful away from home.

Again, just admit Imran would definitely be considered, which should be obvious, and we can end this.