5 most underrated batsmen in world cricket right now

#4 BJ Watling

Watling has been one of his side's most consistent performers

The role of a wicketkeeper has undergone a major change in the last two decades. From being asked to just be good behind the wickets, the modern keeper has to command a place in the side as a batsman while also being good behind the stumps.

While the likes of Quinton de Kock and Sarfraz Ahmed get plenty of plaudits, BJ Watling, despite being incredibly consistent for New Zealand in Tests, is seldom mentioned. In a team that has the likes of Kane Williamson and Ross Taylor, Watling's efforts almost go under the radar.

His numbers though indicate a completely different story. Despite primarily batting at No.7 and having to play with the tail, he averages almost 40 in Tests with six centuries. Whether it is shielding the tail and scoring crucial runs to take a first innings lead or reducing the defeat and attacking from one end, Watling has shown he has an impeccable temperament and the resilience to fight his way out of any tricky situation.