The ICC unveiled its ODI Team of the Year for 2024, and for the first time in recent memory, no Indian cricketer made the list. India’s lack of representation in the team stems from their limited participation in the ODI format during the year, playing only three matches against Sri Lanka. Their performance was underwhelming, with two losses and a tied game. While India remained active in Test and T20 formats, their ODI exploits fell short of expectations.
Sri Lanka emerged as the most represented side in the prestigious lineup, with four players making the cut. However, despite this achievement, Sri Lanka failed to qualify for the upcoming ICC Champions Trophy, set to commence in February 2025 in Pakistan.
Charith Asalanka Leads the ODI Team of the Year
Sri Lanka’s middle-order batter, Charith Asalanka, was named captain of the ODI Team of the Year. Asalanka delivered a stellar performance in 2024, scoring 605 runs in 16 matches at an average of 50.02, proving to be a reliable asset for his team. Joining him in the XI were teammates Pathum Nissanka, Kusal Mendis (who also served as wicketkeeper), and star all-rounder Wanindu Hasaranga.
The inclusion of these four players highlighted Sri Lanka’s impressive individual performances in 2024, even though their collective efforts failed to secure a spot in the Champions Trophy.
Young Talent Shines from Pakistan and Afghanistan
Pakistan’s rising star Saim Ayub earned his place in the team after a phenomenal year with the bat. The 22-year-old left-hander scored 515 runs in just nine matches, including three centuries, showcasing immense promise. Pakistan’s lethal pace duo of Shaheen Afridi and Haris Rauf also featured in the lineup, reflecting their dominance with the ball throughout the year.
Afghanistan continued to make waves in international cricket with three players selected for the team. Rahmanullah Gurbaz, Azmatullah Omarzai, and spinner AM Ghazanfar were recognized for their contributions, emphasizing Afghanistan’s growing presence in the ODI format.
West Indies’ Lone Representation
Sherfane Rutherford was the sole representative from the West Indies in the 2024 ODI Team of the Year. While his individual performances stood out, the West Indies’ failure to qualify for the Champions Trophy was a setback for the team.
Limited Representation and Champions Trophy Context
Notably, only four countries – Sri Lanka, Pakistan, Afghanistan, and the West Indies – featured in the ICC ODI Team of the Year. Among these, two nations, Sri Lanka and the West Indies, failed to secure a place in the eight-team Champions Trophy, which will be hosted by Pakistan.
The Champions Trophy will see participation from India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Afghanistan, Australia, New Zealand, England, and South Africa. Due to political reasons, India will play its matches in Dubai, while the other games will be held in Pakistan. The tournament kicks off on February 19, 2025.
Sri Lanka’s dominant representation in the team, despite their absence from the Champions Trophy, remains a striking irony in this year’s cricket narrative.
