InsideSport’s Best ODI XI of 2024: No Indians, Shaheen Afridi leads young & talented star studded side

Well, the year 2024 comes to an end, and now it is time to judge the Best ODI XI for the Calendar Year 2024. No Indian Cricket Team makes the cut. But on the contrary, 2 Pakistani stars make the cut. Ace pacer Shaheen Afridi will be captaining the side which consists of other star players like Harry Brook, Saim Ayub, and Kusal Mendis. Check Out InsideSport’s Best ODI XI for 2024.

1. Saim Ayub

It is without a doubt that young Pakistani opener Saim Ayub will make the cut. He has been a class apart this year. The Men in Green has found a breath of fresh air after witnessing Ayub’s batting. The unique ability of the southpaw to take the aggressive route as well as anchor the innings makes him a vital asset for the team. The young batter has already impressed everyone with his brilliant performances both in International and domestic matches, making the go-to opener for the Pakistan Cricket Team.

2. Pathum Nissanka

Another player who has been great in 2024 is Sri Lanka’s Pathum Nissanka. He has consistently showcased his ability to score big runs at the top of the innings. This makes him an ideal partner for Saim Ayub as the second opener in the team. The Lankan player can play both spin and pace with relative ease making him a crucial player who can accelerate as well as provide stability to the top order.

3. Kusal Mendis (WK)

Another Sri Lankan star that makes the list is Kusal Mendis. He becomes a crucial player in the lineup not just because of his batting exploits but also due to his brilliant keeping skills. His quick scoring ability makes him an automatic choice in the lineup. Furthermore, Mendis has the ability to change the complexion of the game with his bat, and his role behind the stumps makes him a crucial player for the side.

4. Harry Brook

The Englishman, Harry Brook is one of the best emerging talents in modern times. His aggressive batting style coupled with his ability to tackle spin bowling, makes him one of the best of the lot in the middle order. Brook has been a crucial player for the Three Lions in recent times and his explosive batting style makes him one of the best players at number 4.

5. Sherfane Rutherford

The West Indian batter is one of the best in the world when it comes to power batting. Another great ability is his batting position, i.e. the middle order. He has the unique ability to play big shots and can clear boundaries with relative ease. He can quickly score big runs making in one of the best finishers in the death overs.

6. Liam Livingstone

Another Englishman who makes it to the Best ODI XI is Liam Livingstone. In white-ball cricket, Livingstone is a gem of a player. Time and again he has proved his worth by bringing his team out of peril. He can accelerate innings based on the need of the situation. Furthermore, Livingstone offers off-spin bowling which can come in real handy in times of need.

7. Azmatullah Omarzai

Azmatullah Omarzai is a highly talented all-rounder. The exploits that the Afghan player has showcased both with the bat and ball are really good. He brings the X-factor to the team and his role as a complete team player adds more value and depth to the squad.

8. Wanindu Hasaranga

Sri Lankan spinner, Wanindu Hasaranga is well known face. And he is effectively best when it comes to white ball cricket. His batting prowess down the order is pretty well known. Add this to his brilliant spin bowling, and the result is huge. Apart from his batting and bowling exploits, Hasaranga is a brilliant fielder and is well-known for taking masterful catches.

9. Allah Ghazanfar

18-year-old Allah Ghazanfar is a highly touted emerging cricketer from Afghanistan. The young gun has the unique ability to swing the ball both ways. And this makes him a crucial asset for the team. The young speedster also has the knack of picking wickets in regular intervals which makes him a huge threat in the opening overs and in the death overs.

10. Shaheen Afridi (C)

The Pakistani speedster Shaheen Afridi is the true captain of the team. Now just his bowling abilities, but his ability to lead the side makes him a brilliant captain. And coming to his bowling, his effective bowling makes him one of the best bowlers on the planet.

11. Alzarri Joseph

Another West Indies batter who makes the cut is Alzarri Joseph. His ability to bowl toe crushing yorkers makes him an able partner for Shaheen Afridi. The Caribbean bowler can really terrorize his opponents by applying relentless pressure.