In the run-up to the T20 World Cup final, Cricket.com.au’s experts, Louis Cameron and Josh Schonafinger, have selected their standout XI from the tournament, celebrating the players who have delivered remarkable performances.
Leading the charge is Australia’s Travis Head, whose seven matches yielded 255 runs at an average of 42.50 and an impressive strike rate of 158.38. Head’s aggressive approach during the Powerplay was pivotal to Australia‘s unbeaten run at the start of the tournament. His powerful hitting and consistency were key to his team’s success, showcasing the form that made him a standout in the IPL.
Partnering him at the top is India’s Rohit Sharma, who has accumulated 248 runs in seven matches at an average of 41.33 and a strike rate of 155.97. Sharma’s standout innings included a blistering 41-ball 92 against Australia, a knock that significantly contributed to India’s dominant run to the final. His ability to perform under pressure was evident in his crucial half-century against England in the semi-final.
Behind the stumps, Nicholas Pooran of the West Indies takes the wicketkeeper spot. Pooran’s 228 runs came at an average of 38 and a strike rate of 146.15. Known for his explosive hitting, Pooran topped the tournament’s six-hitting chart, with his 98 against Afghanistan being the highest score of the competition. Despite the West Indies not reaching the semi-finals, Pooran’s performances were a highlight.
Aaron Jones of the USA is one of the tournament’s fairy-tale stories. Leading his team to a shock Super Eights appearance, Jones scored 162 runs in six matches at an average of 40.50. His unbeaten 94 against Pakistan was one of the upsets of the tournament, showcasing his skill and determination.
Australia’s Marcus Stoinis makes the list as a key all-rounder. His contributions with both bat and ball were invaluable, scoring 169 runs with a strike rate of 164.07 and taking 10 wickets. Stoinis’ versatility and ability to perform in crucial moments were vital to Australia’s campaign.
India’s Hardik Pandya joins the XI for his balanced contributions in all facets of the game. Pandya scored 139 runs at a strike rate of 149.46 and took eight wickets with an economy rate of 7.77. His impactful performances in the death overs and his efficient bowling were crucial to India’s strategy.
Afghanistan’s Rashid Khan, named as captain of this best XI, was instrumental in his team’s historic semi-final run. Khan took 14 wickets at an average of 12.78 with an economy rate of 6.17. His leadership and consistent performances were the backbone of Afghanistan’s campaign.
Young leg-spinner Rishad Hossain from Bangladesh also earns a spot with his 14 wickets at an average of 13.85. Hossain’s breakout tournament included match-defining performances against Sri Lanka and Australia, underlining his potential.
Fazalhaq Farooqi of Afghanistan was a revelation with the ball, taking 17 wickets at an astonishing average of 9.41. His standout performance of 5-9 against Uganda was the best of the tournament, and his ability to take wickets consistently against top teams was impressive.
India’s Jasprit Bumrah continues to cement his reputation as one of the best white-ball bowlers. His 13 wickets came at an incredible economy rate of 4.12, and his spells were crucial in key matches, including against Pakistan and Afghanistan.
Finally, South Africa’s Anrich Nortje completes the XI. Nortje’s role in the middle overs was pivotal, taking 13 wickets with an economy rate of 13.46. His devastating spell of 4-7 against Sri Lanka set the tone for South Africa’s campaign, leading them to the finals.
Cricket Australia team of the tournament World Cup 2024
Rohit, Head, Pooran, Aaron Jones, Stoinis, Hardik, Rashid (C), Rishad, Nortje, Bumrah, Farooqi
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