Former Pakistan off-spinner Saeed Ajmal He remains one of the most influential spin bowlers of the modern era. At his peak, Ajmal was virtually unstoppable, combining sharp turn, subtle variations and relentless accuracy to dominate batsmen across 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, defining how spinners could control the game even outside traditional subcontinental conditions.
Changing demand for spinners in modern cricket
Spin bowling has evolved further in today’s game. With flat pitches, heavy bats and an aggressive batting mentality, modern-day spinners need to be tactically astute rather than relying solely on turn. Flight, deception, change of pace and smart use of the crease have become essential weapons. As T20 and ODI cricket continues to dominate the calendar, spinners who can outwit the batsmen are often the difference between victory and defeat.
But I am saying 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 blend intelligence with skill.
Saeed Ajmal reveals his top five spinners of the modern era
Ajmal started his list by naming the Indian all-rounder. Ravindra JadejaHighlighting his immense value across all formats. Jadeja’s ability to bowl economically, apply pressure and take important wickets has made him one of the most reliable spinners in world cricket. His fast left-arm spin, combined with exceptional fielding and batting depth, makes him one of the most complete cricketers of the modern era.
Ajmal was selected at number two -Kuldeep YadavWith special praise for the Indian wrist-spinner’s white-ball ability. Ajmal was candid in his assessment, describing Kuldeep as the best white-ball spinner in the game currently. He praised Kuldeep’s sharp turn, ability to move the ball in the air and commitment to giving the ball flight – qualities Ajmal described as the hallmarks of intelligent bowling.
“The best white-ball spinner at the moment is Kuldeep Yadav. There’s no doubt about it, I really like Kuldeep. He spins the ball quickly and also gets it in the air. Even though Kuldeep is Indian, I want to see the best and that’s why Kuldeep is at the top. Watch his videos; he puts a lot of effort into giving the ball flight. This is what you call intelligent bowling – bowling that doesn’t come to the bat easily, and Kuldeep does just that.” Ajmal said.
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England’s leading leg spinner adil rashid Was Ajmal’s next choice. The former Pakistan spinner praised Rashid’s variation and control, particularly his flipper, noting how effectively Rashid uses his body weight to create deception. Rashid’s consistency in ICC tournaments and bilateral series has cemented his reputation as one of the finest limited overs spinners in the world.
“He’s a good bowler, man, he bowls exceptionally well. His variation and flight is amazing. When he bowls the flipper, you can see how he uses his body weight with it,” added Ajmal
Ajmal completed his list by taking the name of New Zealand michel santner and australia’s adam zampaHe praised Santner for his clever pace variations and control, qualities that make him particularly effective in pressure situations, On Zampa, Ajmal offered a more measured assessment while acknowledging his effectiveness and role in Australia’s white-ball success,
Ajmal further said, “Santner is good, he also has a lot of variety in his pace. Zampa is fine.”
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