The ICC has just dropped its Men’s ODI Team of the Year 2024, and there’s plenty to celebrate for Pakistan cricket enthusiasts. Three of our own—Shaheen Shah Afridi, Haris Rauf, and Saim Ayub—have secured their places among the world’s finest. Let’s take a closer look at their stellar performances and why they made the cut.
Saim Ayub
If there’s one player who truly lit up 2024 for Pakistan, it’s Saim Ayub. This left-handed opener wasn’t just consistent; he was spectacular. Scoring 515 runs in just nine innings at an impressive average of 64.37, Ayub was a match-winner at the top of the order.
But wait, there’s more. The young gun showed his all-round skills by picking up five wickets at crucial moments. Who can forget his role in Pakistan’s historic whitewash of South Africa on their home turf? Named Player of the Series, Ayub proved he’s here to stay.
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Shaheen Shah Afridi
Shaheen Afridi had yet another year to remember. The tall left-arm pacer was a nightmare for batters, especially with the new ball. In just six matches, he claimed 15 wickets at a jaw-dropping average of 17.60.
His pinpoint yorkers and ability to swing the ball both ways kept opponents guessing. Time and again, Afridi provided Pakistan with breakthroughs at critical junctures, cementing his place as one of the best bowlers in the world.
Haris Rauf
Haris Rauf, with his raw pace and fiery spells, was a standout performer for Pakistan in 2024. Picking up 13 wickets in eight matches, he was Pakistan’s go-to bowler during the death overs.
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His highlight? The 2-1 series victory against Australia, where his accurate and aggressive bowling earned him the Player of the Series award. Haris has become a key asset for Pakistan, especially in high-pressure situations.
A Balanced Team with Global Flavors
While Pakistan made a strong mark, the ICC ODI Team of the Year featured stars from Sri Lanka, Afghanistan, and even the West Indies. Charith Asalanka, Sri Lanka’s versatile all-rounder, was named captain after a phenomenal year. Pathum Nissanka’s double hundred and Wanindu Hasaranga’s record-breaking 7/19 were other standout moments.
Afghanistan’s Rahmanullah Gurbaz and 18-year-old spinner AM Ghazanfar also turned heads with their performances. And let’s not forget Sherfane Rutherford from the West Indies, whose power-hitting at an average of 106.2 earned him a spot.
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)
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