2024 has emerged as a golden chapter in the history of Test cricket, offering fans a mixture of drama, skill and unpredictability. He was at the heart of the event ICC World Test Championship (WTC) 2023-25 tournament, which brought a sense of urgency and competitiveness to the game's longest format.
South AfricaThe team's impressive consistency ensured their place in the final, a testament to their dominant performance in all conditions. Meanwhile, Australia, India and Sri Lanka They remained locked in a fierce battle for the remaining spot in the final, reflecting the world-class depth and quality of Test cricket.
Exceptional individual performance: the backbone of success
2024 saw great individual brilliance, with several players rising to the occasion and defining matches with their exceptional performances. Batsmen and bowlers alike displayed their mastery, producing moments that will be etched in cricketing folklore. England and India, the two teams that have played the most Test matches this year, have particularly relied on outstanding efforts from their key players. These performances not only raised the standard of their teams but also reinforced the importance of individual contributions to the team-oriented format of Test cricket.
Shocking results: the year's unforgettable surprises
The unpredictability of Test cricket has been on full display in 2024, with several unexpected results rocking the cricket hierarchy. BangladeshHistoric victory over Pakistan It was a watershed moment, showing their growth as a formidable nation in the testing phase. It was equally surprising New ZealandIndia's dominant display, as they inflicted a rare home defeat on the hosts. These results were a reminder that cricket's longest format remains as unpredictable as it is exciting, with underdogs capable of toppling the giants on any day.
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AB de Villiers Test XI 2024: A legend's perspective
In addition to the general commotion, AB de Villiersone of the most respected voices in cricket and a former batsman in all formats, has revealed his Test XI for 2024. The announcement immediately sparked widespread controversy, with fans and experts analyzing his selections. Known for their deep understanding of the game and appreciation of skill, De Villiers' side reflected a mix of established stars and emerging talent. His insights provided a fascinating glimpse into the qualities that define success in Test cricket, enriching discussions among cricket fans around the world.
1. Yashavi Jaiswal (India)
- Roles: 29
- Runs: 1478
- middle: 54.74
- Half centuries: 9
- Centuries: 3
- Strike rate: 69.35
The Indian left-hander has cemented his place as one of the best openers in Test cricket in 2024. Known for his patience and ability to deliver runs, Jaiswal has combined consistency with aggression when needed. His three centuries, including a crucial knock in difficult conditions, were instrumental in stabilizing India's batting.
2. Ben Duckett (England)
- Roles: 32
- Runs: 1149
- middle: 37.06
- Half centuries: 6
- Centuries: 2
- Strike rate: 87.04
A strong opener provided England with a fast start to the year. Duckett's ability to maintain a high strike rate of 87.04 in Tests brought a dynamic edge to the top level, complementing his strong partnerships with other batsmen.
3. Joe Root (England)
- Roles: 31
- Runs: 1556
- middle: 55.57
- Half centuries: 5
- Centuries: 6
- Strike rate: 63.38
Consistent root playback history He made him a vital cog in England's batting line-up. With six centuries in the year, he showed his ability to stabilize the innings and accelerate when needed. His class and adaptability confirmed his status as one of the modern greats.
4. Harry Brook (England)
- Roles: 20
- Runs: 1100
- middle: 55.00
- Half centuries: 3
- Centuries: 4
- Strike rate: 85.00
A rising star in England's middle order, Brook's aggressive and measured approach has been a revelation in 2024. His four centuries in just 20 innings have demonstrated his hunger for runs and ability to dominate bowlers across conditions.
5. Kamindu Mendis (Sri Lanka)
- Roles: 16
- Runs: 1049
- middle: 74.96
- Half centuries: 3
- Centuries: 5
- Strike rate: 65.30
Mendis has emerged as Sri Lanka's most reliable batsman, with an exceptional average of 74.96. His ability to turn starts into big scores was unparalleled, with five centuries in just 16 innings, underscoring his enormous contribution to Sri Lanka's Test success.
6. Ravindra Jadeja (India) – All-rounder
- Innings (Bowling): 21
- wicket: 48
- Average Bowling: 24.29
- Best bowling of the match: 10/220
- Five-way transfers: 3
- 10- Transfer of wicket matches: 1
Jadeja was the quintessential all-rounder, providing penetration with the ball and stability with the bat. His ability to bowl long spells and extract spin routes made him an indispensable asset for India.
7. Muhammad Rizwan (Pakistan) – wicket-keeper
- Roles: 13
- Runs: 539
- middle: 44.91
- Half centuries: 2
- Centuries: 1
- Strike rate: 59.82
Behind the stumps, Rizwan's agility and sharp reflexes saved crucial runs. With the bat, his ability to counter-attack and stabilize the innings under pressure has been invaluable for Pakistan.
8. Kagiso Rabada (South Africa) – Buller
- Roles: 16
- wicket: 34
- Average Bowling: 19.94
- Best bowling of the match: 9/72
- Five-way transfers: 2
- 10- Transfer of wicket matches: 0
Rabada's fiery spells have made him South Africa's favorite bowler. His unparalleled ability to swing the ball in both directions and generate speed was a constant threat to hitters.
9. Jasprit Bumrah (India) – Bowler
- Roles: 26
- wicket: 71
- Average Bowling: 14.92
- Best bowling of the match: 9/91
- Five-way transfers: 5
- 10- Transfer of wicket matches: 0
Bumrah's deadly accuracy and York's unplayable bowlers have made him the standout bowler for 2024. His impressive average of 14.92 and consistent five-wicket hauls have highlighted his ability to turn matches single-handedly.
10. Josh Hazlewood (Australia) – Bowler
- Roles: 13
- wicket: 35
- Average Bowling: 13.60
- Best bowling of the match: 9/79
- Five-way transfers: 2
- 10- Transfer of wicket matches: 0
Hazlewood's mastery of line and length proved instrumental to Australia's success. His ability to bounce and move made him a nightmare for hitters on all surfaces.
11. Prapath Jayasuriya (Sri Lanka) – Bowler
- Roles: 18
- wicket: 48
- Average Bowling: 32.20
- Best bowling of the match: 9/181
- Five-way transfers: 4
- 10- Transfer of wicket matches: 0
Jayasuriya's spin magic was key to Sri Lanka's resurgence in Test cricket. With four five-wicket hauls, he has consistently produced match-winning performances, especially on sub-continental pitches.