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The year 2024 stood out as a golden chapter in the history of Test cricket, offering fans a mix of drama, skill and unpredictability. The heart of the action was the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) 2023-25 cycle, which brought a sense of urgency and competitiveness to the longer format of the game.
south africa‘s remarkable consistency ensured his place in the final, a testament to his dominant performances in a variety of conditions. Meanwhile, Australia, India i Sri Lanka remained locked in a fierce battle for the remaining place in the finals, reflecting the overall depth and quality of Test cricket.
Exceptional individual performances: the backbone of success
2024 saw individual brilliance shine brightly, with numerous players rising to the occasion and defining matches with their exceptional performances. Batsmen and bowlers displayed their mastery, producing moments that will be etched in cricketing folklore. England and India, the two teams who played the most Test matches during the year, were particularly reliant on outstanding efforts from their key players. These performances not only boosted their respective teams but also reinforced the importance of individual contributions in the team-oriented format of Test cricket.
Shocking results: the unforgettable upsets of the year
The unpredictability of Test cricket was on full display in 2024, with several unexpected results shaking up the cricketing hierarchy. Bangladeshhistoric victory over Pakistan it was a pivotal moment, showing their growth as a formidable Test playing nation. It was just as surprising new zealandDominating display in India where they inflicted a rare home series 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 giants on any given day.
READ also: AUS vs IND: Australian PM Anthony Albanese shares proposal for new ‘Jasprit Bumrah’ law
AB de Villiers’ Test XI of 2024: A legend’s perspective
Adding to the buzz of the year, AB de Villiersone of cricket’s most respected voices and a former all-format batsman, revealed his Test XI for 2024. The announcement immediately sparked widespread debate, as fans and pundits weighed in on his selections. Known for his deep understanding of the game and appreciation of skill, de Villiers’ team reflected a mix of established superstars and rising talent. His insights offered a fascinating insight into the qualities that define success in Test cricket, enriching discussions among cricket enthusiasts around the world.
1. Yashasvi Jaiswal (India)
- Innings: 29
- Careers: 1478
- Average: 54.74
- Half centuries: 9
- centuries: 3
- Hit percentage: 69.35
The Indian left-hander cemented his position as one of the best openers in Test cricket in 2024. Known for his patience and run-scoring ability, Jaiswal combined consistency with aggression when required. His three centuries, including crucial knocks in difficult conditions, were instrumental in the stability of India’s batting.
2. Ben Duckett (England)
- Innings: 32
- Careers: 1149
- Average: 37.06
- Half centuries: 6
- centuries: 2
- Hit percentage: 87.04
England’s aggressive opener provided quick starts all year. Duckett’s ability to maintain a high strike rate of 87.04 in Tests brought a dynamic edge to the top order, complementing his strong partnerships with other batsmen.
3. Joe Root (England)
- Innings: 31
- Careers: 1556
- Average: 55,57
- Half centuries: 5
- centuries: 6
- Hit percentage: 63.38
Root’s consistent career score made him a vital cog in England’s batting line-up. With six centuries in the year, he showed his ability to anchor the innings and accelerate when needed. His class and adaptability reaffirmed his status as one of the modern greats.
4. Harry Brook (England)
- Innings: 20
- Careers: 1100
- Average: 55.00
- Half centuries: 3
- centuries: 4
- Hit percentage: 85.00
The rising star of England’s middle order, Brook’s aggressive yet calculated approach was a revelation in 2024. His four centuries in just 20 innings demonstrated his appetite for runs and his ability to dominate bowlers in all conditions.
5. Kamindu Mendis (Sri Lanka)
- Innings: 16
- Careers: 1049
- Average: 74.96
- Half centuries: 3
- centuries: 5
- Hit percentage: 65.30
Mendis emerged as Sri Lanka’s most reliable batsman, averaging an extraordinary 74.96. His ability to convert starts into big scores was unmatched, with five centuries in just 16 innings, underscoring his immense contribution to Sri Lanka’s Test success.
6. Ravindra Jadeja (India) – All-rounder
- Tickets (balls): 21
- Wickets: 48
- Bowling Average: 24.29
- Best bowling in a match: 10/220
- Rolls of five wickets: 3
- 10-Wicket Match Hauls: 1
Jadeja was the quintessential all-rounder, providing breakthroughs with the ball and stability with the bat. His ability to bowl long spells and extract spin on spinning tracks made him an indispensable asset for India.
7. Mohammad Rizwan (Pakistan) – Wicketkeeper
- Innings: 13
- Careers: 539
- Average: 44.91
- Half centuries: 2
- centuries: 1
- Hit percentage: 59.82
Behind the stumps, Rizwan’s agility and sharp reflexes saved crucial runs. With the bat, his ability to counter-attack and stabilize innings under pressure was invaluable for Pakistan.
8. Kagiso Rabada (South Africa) – Bowler
- Innings: 16
- Wickets: 34
- Bowling Average: 19.94
- Best bowling in a match: 9/72
- Rolls of five wickets: 2
- 10-Wicket Match Hauls: 0
Rabada’s fiery spells made him South Africa’s go-to bowler. His unmatched ability to swing the ball both ways and generate pace was a constant threat to the batsmen.
9. Jasprit Bumrah (India) – Bowler
- Innings: 26
- Wickets: 71
- Bowling Average: 14.92
- Best bowling in a match: 9/91
- Rolls of five wickets: 5
- 10-Wicket Match Hauls: 0
Bumrah’s lethal accuracy and unplayable yorkers made him the standout bowler of 2024. His remarkable average of 14.92 and consistent five-wicket hauls highlighted his ability to turn matches around lonely
10. Josh Hazlewood (Australia) – Bowler
- Innings: 13
- Wickets: 35
- Bowling Average: 13.60
- Best bowling in a match: 9/79
- Rolls of five wickets: 2
- 10-Wicket Match Hauls: 0
Hazlewood’s command of line and length was instrumental to Australia’s success. His ability to extract bounce and movement made him a nightmare for batsmen on all surfaces.
11. Prabath Jayasuriya (Sri Lanka) – Bowler
- Innings: 18
- Wickets: 48
- Bowling Average: 32.20
- Best bowling in a match: 9/181
- Rolls of five wickets: 4
- 10-Wicket Match Hauls: 0
Jayasuriya’s spin magic was key to Sri Lanka’s resurgence in Test cricket. With four five-wicket hauls, he consistently delivered match-winning performances, especially on subcontinental pitches.
