InsideSport’s Best ODI XI of 2024 is a star-studded team filled with young and talented players from around the world. This team is a representation of the future of cricket and is led by the rising star Shaheen Afridi. The team is devoid of any Indian players, a surprising fact given the dominance of India in the cricketing world. But this team is a testament to the potential of players from other countries who have the ability to take over the game and challenge the established giants in the sport.
The inclusion of Shaheen Afridi as the captain of this XI is a no-brainer. At just 24 years of age, Afridi has already made a name for himself as a lethal left-arm pacer, capable of picking wickets at crucial times in the game. His 4-wicket haul in the 2019 World Cup against Bangladesh is a testament to his potential and he will be a force to be reckoned with in the coming years.
Opening the batting for this XI is Prithvi Shaw from India and Zak Crawley from England. Shaw’s aggressive style of batting and Crawley’s solid technique make for a formidable opening pair that can dominate any bowling attack. Shaw, who has already made a mark in the Indian Premier League, is touted to be the next big thing in Indian cricket. Crawley, on the other hand, has shown glimpses of his potential in the few matches he has played for England and is already being compared to some of the greats of the game.
At number three is the young and talented Shubman Gill from India. Known for his superb batting technique and ability to score big runs, Gill has already made a name for himself in the Indian cricketing circles. Despite not getting many opportunities in the national team, Gill has impressed in the limited chances he has got and is expected to take the cricketing world by storm in the coming years.
The fourth spot is occupied by the power-hitter Ollie Pope from England. Pope, who is just 24 years old, has already shown his class in the limited-overs format and is expected to establish himself as a vital cog in the English middle order. His ability to hit big shots and build partnerships make him an ideal candidate for the number four position.
At number five is the Pakistani all-rounder Mohammad Rizwan, who also takes over the wicketkeeping duties for this XI. Rizwan has been a revelation for Pakistan in recent years, with his consistent performances with both the bat and the gloves. His calm and composed approach in pressure situations makes him a valuable asset for any team and he has the potential to become one of the best all-rounders in the world.
The sixth spot goes to the West Indian power-hitter Nicholas Pooran. Known for his explosive batting and acrobatic fielding, Pooran has already made his mark in the limited-overs format and is expected to continue his dominance in the coming years. His ability to clear the boundaries at will makes him a dangerous player in the middle overs and he can single-handedly shift the momentum of the game in his team’s favor.
At number seven is the Afghan sensation Rashid Khan, who also leads the spin bowling attack for this XI. Rashid’s ability to control the game with his leg-spin and pick wickets at crucial times makes him an invaluable asset for any team. His performance in the IPL and other T20 leagues around the world has made him one of the most sought-after spinners in the world.
The pace bowling attack is led by the young and talented Jofra Archer from England. Known for his express pace and the ability to bowl Yorkers at will, Archer has already become a vital part of the English bowling unit in all formats of the game. His consistent performances and ability to bowl in different phases of the game make him an asset for this XI.
Joining Archer in the pace attack is the exciting Australian talent, Jhye Richardson. Richardson, who has been impressive in his limited opportunities for Australia, has the potential to be a leader of the pace attack in the coming years. His raw pace and swing make him a deadly combination and he will be a key player for this XI.
Completing the pace attack is the South African speedster Anrich Nortje. Nortje has been a revelation for South Africa in recent times, with his consistent performances in both Test and ODI cricket. His
