Pakistani cricket stars Saim Ayub, Shaheen Shah Afridi, and Haris Rauf have been named in the International Cricket Council (ICC) Men’s One Day International (ODI) Team of the Year 2024.
The ICC unveiled the Pakistani players alongside other global stars, celebrating their exceptional performances over the year.
The council highlighted that this year’s team exemplifies quality, balance, and versatility, showcasing star power and consistency across all positions.
Saim Ayub’s Breakout Year
Saim Ayub enjoyed a stellar debut year in ODI cricket. He scored 515 runs in nine matches, boasting a highest score of 113 not out, an average of 64.37, and a strike rate of 105.53. His performances included three centuries and one half-century. The ICC praised Saim’s breakout season, describing it as a significant moment for the young left-hander.
Saim made an immediate impact after debuting in November. He scored a combined 125 runs in three ODIs against Australia, followed by a maiden century in Zimbabwe. He continued to impress, scoring three centuries in his last five innings, including two in South Africa, where he averaged 78.3.
Shaheen Afridi’s Bowling Excellence
Despite playing only six ODIs in 2024, Shaheen Shah Afridi’s impact was undeniable. He claimed 15 wickets with a bowling average of 17.6 and a best bowling figure of 4/47. The ICC commended Shaheen for his consistency at the international level and for maintaining one of the best bowling strike rates in world cricket.
Haris Rauf’s Fiery Performances
Haris Rauf finished 2024 in top form, taking 13 wickets in eight matches at an average of 22.4. His standout performance came in a three-match series in Australia, where he claimed 10 wickets, including a five-wicket haul (5/29) in Adelaide. His fiery spells helped Pakistan secure a comfortable victory in that series.
Full ICC Men’s ODI Team of the Year 2024
| Player Name | Country | Role |
|---|---|---|
| Rahmanullah Gurbaz | Afghanistan | Batter |
| Pathum Nissanka | Sri Lanka | Batter |
| Saim Ayub | Pakistan | Batter |
| Kusal Mendis (WK) | Sri Lanka | Wicketkeeper-Batter |
| Charith Asalanka (C) | Sri Lanka | Captain, Batter |
| Sherfane Rutherford | West Indies | All-Rounder |
| Azmatullah Omarzai | Afghanistan | All-Rounder |
| Wanindu Hasaranga | Sri Lanka | All-Rounder |
| Shaheen Shah Afridi | Pakistan | Bowler |
| Haris Rauf | Pakistan | Bowler |
| AM Ghazanfar | Afghanistan | Bowler |
