Saim Ayub, Shaheen Shah Afridi, and Haris Rauf have all been named to the ICC Men’s ODI Team of the Year 2024. The ICC emphasized that the team selection reflects a balance of star power, consistency, and versatility. This recognition highlights the talent and skill of these Pakistani players on the global stage.
Pakistani cricket stars Saim Ayub, Shaheen Shah Afridi, and Haris Rauf have been honored by being named in the ICC Men’s ODI Team of the Year for 2024. The announcement came as the ICC highlighted the team’s exceptional balance of quality, consistency, and star power.
Saim Ayub’s Breakout Season
Saim Ayub, the young left-handed batter, had a remarkable year, earning recognition for his breakout performances. After debuting in November, he made an immediate impact, scoring 125 runs in three ODIs in Australia. He later hit his maiden ODI century in Zimbabwe and capped off the year with three centuries in his last five innings, including two against South Africa.
In just nine matches, Saim scored 515 runs at an average of 64.37 and a strike rate of 105.53, including three centuries and a highest score of 113. “What a breakout season it’s been for the Pakistan southpaw, capped off by selection at the top of the order in the ICC Men’s ODI Team of the Year,” the ICC statement read.
Shaheen Afridi’s Impact
Despite playing only six ODIs in 2024, Shaheen Shah Afridi continued to showcase his dominance as one of the world’s top pacers. He claimed 15 wickets at an average of 17.6, with his best figures being 4/47. The ICC highlighted his consistency and exceptional bowling strike rate as reasons for his inclusion in the prestigious lineup.
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Haris Rauf’s Fiery Performances
Haris Rauf ended 2024 in excellent form, taking 13 wickets in eight matches at an average of 22.4. His standout performance came in Australia, where he claimed 10 wickets across three ODIs, including a five-wicket haul in Adelaide. This performance played a pivotal role in Pakistan’s victory.
A Strong Team
The ICC Men’s ODI Team of the Year 2024 includes players from across the cricketing world. The list included Other team players include
Notably, Pakistan had the most players selected from any single nation. This recognition highlights the exceptional talent and performance of Pakistan’s cricket stars on the global stage.