The year 2024 was marked by exceptional cricket across the globe, with Test cricket witnessing some of its finest moments. From centuries that turned matches to bowling spells that defined series, the players who made it into this Best Test XI have left an indelible mark on the sport. Here, we delve into the performances of Yashasvi Jaiswal, Ben Duckett, Joe Root, Harry Brook, Kamindu Mendis, Travis Head, Marco Jensen, Ravindra Jadeja, R Ashwin, Jasprit Bumrah, and Matt Henry, crafting a dream team that could dominate any opposition.
Yashasvi Jaiswal –
Opening the innings, Yashasvi Jaiswal from India has been a revelation. His performances in 2024 have been nothing short of spectacular, showcasing a blend of aggression and technical skill. Jaiswal’s ability to anchor innings or accelerate has made him a nightmare for bowlers. His double centuries and consistent scoring have not only put India in advantageous positions but have also propelled him into the upper echelons of world cricket.
Ben Duckett (WK) –
Partnering Jaiswal at the top is England’s Ben Duckett, whose dynamic approach to Test cricket has been pivotal in England’s aggressive style. Duckett’s ability to take on the new ball with both intent and skill has been crucial. His performances in 2024, especially against spin, have highlighted his evolution as a batsman, making him an invaluable part of this XI.
Joe Root –
At number three, Joe Root continues to be the backbone of England’s batting. His 2024 season was marked by a return to form, scoring runs with both elegance and robustness. Root’s adaptability, whether playing the traditional game or adopting England’s ‘Bazball’ philosophy, has been key. His mastery over different bowling types and conditions makes him a quintessential Test batsman.
Harry Brook –
Harry Brook, another English talent, has made the number four spot his own with his youthful exuberance and mature cricketing brain. His ability to score quickly without compromising on technique has been a highlight of 2024. Brook’s centuries, especially in challenging conditions, have demonstrated his class and potential to be one of the greats of the game.
Kamindu Mendis –
Sri Lanka’s Kamindu Mendis slots in at number five, offering versatility with his batting flair and part-time off-spin. Mendis has been instrumental in Sri Lanka’s resurgence in Test cricket. His aggressive middle-order batting, coupled with crucial contributions with the ball, has made him a dual threat. His performances in 2024 have been pivotal in tight matches, showcasing his big-match temperament.
Travis Head –
Australia’s Travis Head at six has been a game-changer, both with the bat and occasionally with the ball. His counter-attacking style has turned matches around, particularly when Australia was under pressure. Head’s ability to switch gears, his aggressive play against spin, and his strategic mindset in the middle make him an essential part of this XI.
Marco Jansen –
The all-round capabilities of South Africa’s Marco Jansen at seven have been crucial. His left-arm pace bowling has wreaked havoc, especially with his height providing an awkward angle for batsmen. Jansen’s batting has also matured, offering solidity or aggression as required. His performances in 2024 have shown he’s more than just a bowler; he’s a match-winner with both bat and ball.
Ravindra Jadeja –
India’s Ravindra Jadeja at eight is the epitome of the modern Test all-rounder. His bowling has been incisive, often turning games in India’s favor, while his batting has provided both stability and fireworks. Jadeja’s fielding, particularly his catching, adds another dimension to his game, making him a complete package.
R Ashwin –
Complementing Jadeja, R Ashwin at nine has been a masterclass in spin bowling. Even in his later years, Ashwin’s 2024 performances have been a testament to his cricketing brain, with variations that continue to baffle batsmen worldwide. His role in India’s Test victories has been monumental, often setting up matches with his bowling.
Jasprit Bumrah (C)-
Leading the attack at ten, Jasprit Bumrah's performances in 2024 have reaffirmed his status as one of the best fast bowlers in the world. His ability to bowl match-winning spells in all conditions, with an economy that chokes the runs, and his unique action that troubles batsmen, make him indispensable.
Matt Henry –
Rounding off this XI at eleven, New Zealand’s Matt Henry has been a consistent performer. His bowling in 2024 has been characterized by precision and the ability to swing the ball both ways. His role in New Zealand’s Test victories, often taking crucial wickets at pivotal moments, underscores his importance to this team.
This Best Test XI of 2024 isn’t just about individual brilliance but how these players synergize to create a well-rounded team. The opening pair of Jaiswal and Duckett can set the tone, while Root and Brook provide stability and acceleration in the middle. The middle and lower order, with Mendis, Head, and Jansen, offer depth and versatility. The bowling attack, led by Bumrah, with Ashwin, Jadeja, and Henry, is diverse, capable of exploiting any pitch condition.
The year 2024 was one where cricket saw some of its records rewritten and new heroes emerge. This XI reflects not just skill but the spirit of Test cricket – resilience, strategy, and the art of playing the long game. Each player brought something unique to the table, whether it was Jaiswal’s fearless approach, Root’s class, or Bumrah’s unplayable deliveries.
In a year where Test cricket was challenged by the allure of shorter formats, these players stood tall, reminding fans why the five-day game holds a special place in cricket. The Best Test XI of 2024 is not just a collection of high performers but a testament to the enduring appeal and depth of Test cricket. Their stories, performances, and the cricket they’ve played will be remembered not just for this year but for years to come, inspiring the next generation to take up the bat and ball in the purest form of the game.
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