October 4, 2025, marks the 31st birthday of Aiden Markram – South Africa’s elegant right-hander, dynamic leader, and a true pillar of modern cricket.
From a promising youngster to a world-class captain, Markram has become a benchmark for aspiring cricketers across the globe.
From leading South Africa to their first ICC title as captain of the 2014 Under-19 World Cup squad, to playing a pivotal role in the historic ICC World Test Championship triumph over Australia, Markram has firmly established himself in the archives of South African cricket through his immense talent, dedication, and relentless work ethic.
Since making his international debut in 2017, Markram has been a force in all formats. In 46 Tests, he has amassed 2,993 runs at an average of 36.50, including eight centuries and 13 fifties. In 83 ODIs, the right-handed batter has scored 2,590 runs at an average of 37, with three centuries and 14 half-centuries. In T20Is, the new Durban’s Super Giants captain has tallied 1,467 runs in 62 matches at an average of 29.34, featuring nine fifties.
Markram has also made valuable contributions with the ball, claiming five wickets in Tests, 20 in ODIs and 15 in T20Is.
As we celebrate Aiden Markram’s 31st birthday, let’s take a moment to relive some of his most memorable moments in the Proteas jersey.
Early Promise and U19 World Cup Glory
Markram’s talent was recognised early when he captained South Africa to victory in the 2014 ICC Under-19 World Cup, the nation’s first-ever global ICC title. His leadership, temperament, and match-winning performances underlined his potential to be a future star of world cricket.
Fastest South African century in ODI World Cup history
At the 2023 ICC Cricket World Cup, Markram made history with a sensational innings against Sri Lanka in Delhi. He blazed his way to a 49-ball century – the fastest by any South African in World Cup history – underlining his aggressive stroke play and fearless approach on the world stage.
Appointed South Africa’s T20I captain (2023)
Known for his calm temperament and astute cricketing mind, Markram was handed the T20I captaincy in 2023. Since then, he has led the Proteas with composure and clarity, steering them to key bilateral series victories and making history by becoming the first South African captain to take the team to the final of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024. His leadership has been defined by tactical ingenuity and unwavering steadiness.
ICC WTC Final heroics
On the grandest stage of red-ball cricket – the ICC World Test Championship 2023-2025 Final – Aiden Markram rose to the occasion for South Africa against Australia, blending grit with elegance. After a first-innings duck, he displayed incredible composure against the swinging ball, taking on Australia’s seasoned bowling attack to craft a stunning 136 off 207 deliveries. His heroic innings steered South Africa to triumph, ending a 27-year wait for a major ICC title.
Over 7,000 international runs across formats
With more than 7,000 runs for South Africa across Tests, ODIs, and T20Is, Markram has proven himself as one of the most consistent batters of his generation. His tally includes 11 centuries and 36 half-centuries, reflecting his adaptability across conditions and formats – from gritty Test centuries against the world’s best attacks to explosive knocks in limited-overs cricket.
Looking Ahead
At 31, Aiden Markram is entering the prime years of his career. With his skill, experience, and leadership, he is destined to scale even greater heights in international and domestic cricket.
Markram is more than just a batter. His leadership qualities, calmness under pressure and ability to mentor young talent make him a true asset for South African cricket. As captain of the Proteas in the T20I format and a star for the Durban’s Super Giants, he continues to set the benchmark for future generations.
Image courtesy: ICC
