ICC Test Team of the Year 2024: No place for Babar Azam or Pakistani Players in best XI of last season

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The ICC's announcement of the Test Team of the Year 2024 has stirred controversy, with several notable exclusions, including Pakistan's Babar Azam and his teammates.

Despite being one of the most consistent batters in world cricket, Babar's underwhelming Test form last year left him out of the lineup, marking a significant disappointment for his fans.

Babar's performance in 2024 was far from his usual standards. In five Tests, he managed just 202 runs at an average of 20.20, with only one fifty to his name. His highest score of 50 was accompanied by a strike rate of 47.98, indicating struggles against quality bowling attacks. The absence of centuries and consistent contributions was a major factor in his omission from the elite XI.

The Test Team of the Year featured three Indian players who delivered standout performances. Jasprit Bumrah, the world's top-ranked Test bowler, claimed 71 wickets in 2024 at an astonishing average of 14.92. His dominance was on full display in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, where he dismantled Australia's batting lineup with 32 wickets in nine innings. Bumrah also showcased leadership qualities, leading India to a commanding win in Perth.

Yashasvi Jaiswal emerged as one of India's brightest stars, scoring 1,478 runs at an average of 54.74. His year included stellar performances against England and Australia, cementing his position as a long-term prospect. Ravindra Jadeja contributed with both bat and ball, scoring 527 runs and taking 48 wickets, further solidifying his reputation as one of the premier all-rounders in the game.

While India's mixed results in Test cricket didn't deter individual brilliance, Pakistan's struggles were more pronounced. With no players from Pakistan or South Africa making the cut, the XI largely comprised players from England, New Zealand, and Sri Lanka. England had four representatives, including Joe Root and Harry Brook, while New Zealand's Kane Williamson and Matt Henry stood out for their consistency.

Interestingly, Pakistan fared better in the ICC ODI Team of the Year, which featured three of their players. In contrast, India had no representation in the ODI XI, reflecting their limited participation in the 50-over format. The stark differences in performances between formats underline the shifting dynamics of international cricket as teams and players adapt to varying challenges.