‘Best batsman to ever play the game is Sachin but best cricketer…’: Brett Lee

Former Australian pacer Brett Lee has expressed his admiration for cricket legends Sachin Tendulkar and Jacques Kallis. While Tendulkar is Lee's favorite batsman of all time, Kallis stands out as the best cricketer ever, according to Lee. Tendulkar is the leading run-scorer in both Tests and ODIs, with 15,921 and 18,426 runs respectively.

However, Kallis is the only player to have accumulated over 10,000 runs in both formats while also taking more than 250 wickets in each. Lee, who played alongside Kallis in the IPL for the Kolkata Knight Riders in 2012, praised the South African all-rounder's preparation and demeanor on the field. Kallis maintained a calm and focused approach, with his heart rate dropping to around 30 beats per minute before stepping up to bat.

Lee noted that Kallis' meticulous preparation was unique compared to other players like Mike Hussey, who would be more visibly anxious before games. Lee enjoyed being part of Kallis' focused and relaxed preparation environment during his time in the IPL.