Pakistan’s cricketing talents—Saim Ayub, Haris Rauf, and Shaheen Shah Afridi—have been named to the International Cricket Council’s (ICC) Men’s ODI Team of the Year 2024, marking a major achievement for the country’s cricketing squad.
The ICC lauded the selected team for its star power, consistency, and versatility, with the lineup featuring prominent players from various international teams. Sri Lanka’s Charith Asalanka is named the captain of the team, which also includes players from Afghanistan, the West Indies, and Pakistan.
Saim Ayub, the left-handed batter who made his ODI debut in November, was one of the team’s standout performers. Over nine matches, he scored 515 runs at a remarkable average of 64.37. His year was marked by three centuries and a half-century, with his notable performances in Zimbabwe and South Africa, including a series where he averaged 78.3 and scored two centuries.
Shaheen Afridi, the left-arm fast bowler, had an equally impressive year in 2024. He played a key role in Pakistan’s successful series against South Africa, claiming 15 wickets across six matches, with a best performance of 4/47. The ICC commended his excellent strike rate and his ability to change the course of games, even in a limited number of matches.
Haris Rauf, known for his fiery pace, was also a standout performer, taking 13 wickets in eight matches last year. His most notable performance came during a match in Adelaide, where he claimed a brilliant 5/29. Rauf’s contribution to Pakistan’s series victory in Australia was crucial, further cementing his place among the year’s top bowlers.
This recognition highlights the tremendous contribution of these players to Pakistan’s success in 2024, showcasing their skill and consistency on the world stage.
