Cricket may be the gentleman's game. But over the years, it has seen more than its fair share of sledging. Traditionalists may not like this, but sledging in cricket is very much part of the modern game.

Some may argue that it oversteps the mark of sportsmanship, but others see it as an accepted and often entertaining part of cricket. It is certain, however, that some sledging incidents will go down in cricketing folklore.

Glenn McGrath (Australia) and Ramnaresh Sarwan (West Indies): Sarwan, then the West Indies vice-captain, and McGrath went toe-to-toe in Antigua in May 2003, The incident was sparked after Sarwan, on his way to a match-winning second-innings century, reportedly reacted to lurid taunts from McGrath.

McGrath: So what does Brian Lara's d--- taste like?
Sarwan: I don't know. Ask your wife.
McGrath [losing it]: If you ever f---  mention my wife again, I'll f--- rip your f--- throat out.

Glenn McGrath (Australia) and Eddo Brandes (Zimbabwe): The Aussie paceman was bowling to the Zimbabwe number 11 who was just missing each ball. McGrath, frustrated, went to him and inquired: Why are you so fat?

Brandes replied: Because every time I make love to your wife, she gives me a biscuit.

Even the Aussie slip fielders were in hysterics.