Players from six different countries make up the squad, including Shaheen Afridi, Haris Rauf, and Saim Ayub of Pakistan.
In honor of exceptional performances in the 50-over format, the International Cricket Council (ICC) announced the ICC Men’s ODI Team of the Year 2024. Players from six different countries make up the team, but Pakistan has a big influence because three of its players made it into the starting lineup.
After an incredible year with the bat, Saim Ayub, Pakistan’s rising opener, earned his spot. The left-hander demonstrated consistency and flare at the top of the order by scoring 515 runs in just 9 innings. At an average of 27.80, he also claimed five wickets. He was voted Player of the Series for his performances, which helped Pakistan win a number of games in 2024, including a historic rout of South Africa in their own home.
Haris Rauf and Shaheen Shah Afridi, Pakistan’s speed pair, are joining him in the team. With the new ball, Afridi maintained his dominance, taking 15 wickets at an average of 17.60 in 6 games. He was a terror for opposing batters because of his deadly yorkers and swing deliveries. Haris Rauf, meanwhile, took 13 wickets in 8 games thanks to his speed and accuracy, and Pakistan benefited greatly from his ability to score runs in the final overs.
Charith Asalanka, an all-rounder for Sri Lanka, is the team’s captain. He had an amazing year with the bat and the ball, scoring 605 runs and helping to take 10 wickets in crucial situations. In 2024, his persistence and leadership were crucial for Sri Lanka.
Pathum Nissanka of Sri Lanka put up consistent performances, smacking 694 runs, while Rahmanullah Gurbaz of Afghanistan dazzled with his explosive batting, reaching over 531 runs at the top of the order in 11 innings. After a year of reliable play, Kusal Mendis, the wicketkeeper-batter for Sri Lanka, also made the squad. He finished with 742 runs and did brilliantly behind the stumps.
Sherfane Rutherford of the West Indies scored 425 runs and was brilliant with his aggressive batting. Azmatullah Omarzai of Afghanistan was an all-round player who helped his team by taking important wickets and runs.
Wanindu Hasaranga, the ace spinner for Sri Lanka, was an exceptional player with the ball, taking 26 wickets in 10 innings while keeping his economy rate at about five. With 21 wickets in 11 games, Afghanistan’s AM Ghazanfar completed the team with his effective spin bowling.
ICC Men’s ODI Team of the Year 2024:
- Saim Ayub (Pakistan)
- Rahmanullah Gurbaz (Afghanistan)
- Pathum Nissanka (Sri Lanka)
- Kusal Mendis (Sri Lanka – Wicketkeeper)
- Charith Asalanka (Sri Lanka – Captain)
- Sherfane Rutherford (West Indies)
- Azmatullah Omarzai (Afghanistan)
- Wanindu Hasaranga (Sri Lanka)
- Shaheen Shah Afridi (Pakistan)
- Haris Rauf (Pakistan)
- AM Ghazanfar (Afghanistan)
