South Africa's AB de Villiers reveals his 2024 Test XI with Jasprit Bumrah

The year 2024 stood out as a golden chapter in the history of Test cricket, offering fans a combination of drama, skill and unpredictability. At the center of the action was the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) 2023-25 cycle, which brought a sense of urgency and competitiveness to the longest format of the game.

South AfricaRemarkable consistency secured his place in the final, a testament to his dominant performances in different conditions. Meanwhile, Australia, India and Sri Lanka remained locked in a fierce battle for the remaining place in the final, reflecting the overall depth and quality of Test cricket.

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Exceptional individual performances: the backbone of success

In 2024, individual brilliance shone, with numerous players rising to the occasion and defining matches with their exceptional performances. Both batsmen and bowlers demonstrated their mastery, producing moments that will be etched in cricket folklore. England and India, the two teams that played the most Test matches during the year, were particularly reliant on the outstanding efforts of their key players. These performances not only elevated their respective teams but also reinforced the importance of individual contributions in the team-oriented format of Test cricket.

Shocking results: the unforgettable surprises of the year

The unpredictability of Test cricket was on full display in 2024, with several unexpected results shaking up the cricket hierarchy. BangladeshThe historic victory over Pakistan It was a defining moment, showcasing their growth as a formidable testing nation. Equally surprising was New Zealand‘s dominant performance in India, where they inflicted a rare defeat on the hosts in the home series. These results were a reminder that cricket’s longest format remains as unpredictable as it is fascinating, with underdogs capable of toppling giants on any given day.

Also READ: AUS vs IND: Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese shares proposal for new ‘Jasprit Bumrah’ law

AB de Villiers Test XI of 2024: A legend’s perspective

Adding to the rumor of the year, AB de Villiersone of cricket’s most respected voices and former all-format batsman, revealed his Test XI for 2024. The announcement immediately sparked widespread debate, as fans and pundits analyzed his selections. Known for his deep knowledge of the game and appreciation of skill, de Villiers’ team reflected a mix of established superstars and rising talents. His insights offered a fascinating insight into the qualities that define success in Test cricket, enriching debates among cricket enthusiasts around the world.

1. Yashasvi Jaiswal (India)

Entrance: 29
Racing: 1478
Average: 54.74
Half Centuries: 9
Ages: 3
Strike rate: 69.35

The Indian left-hander cemented his position as one of the best openers in Test cricket in 2024. Known for his patience and run-making ability, Jaiswal combined consistency with aggression when required. His three centuries, including crucial knocks in difficult conditions, were instrumental in the stability of India’s batting.

2. Ben Duckett (England)

Entrance: 32
Racing: 1149
Average: 37.06
Half Centuries: 6
Ages: 2
Strike rate: 87.04

England’s aggressive opener provided fast starts throughout the year. Duckett’s ability to maintain a high strike rate of 87.04 in Tests brought a dynamic edge to the top order, complementing his strong partnerships with other batsmen.

3. Joe Root (England)

Entrance: 31
Racing: 1556
Average: 55.57
Half Centuries: 5
Ages: 6
Strike rate: 63.38

Root’s consistent scoring made him a vital piece in the England batting line-up. With six centuries in the year, he demonstrated his ability to anchor the innings and accelerate when required. His class and adaptability reaffirmed his status as one of the modern greats.

4. Harry Brook (England)

Entrance: 20
Racing: 1100
Average: 55.00
Half Centuries: 3
Ages: 4
Strike rate: 85.00

The rising star of England’s middle order, Brook’s aggressive yet calculated approach was a revelation in 2024. His four centuries in just 20 innings demonstrated his hunger for runs and his ability to dominate bowlers in all conditions.

5. Kamindu Mendis (Sri Lanka)

Entrance: 16
Racing: 1049
Average: 74.96
Half Centuries: 3
Ages: 5
Strike rate: 65.30

Mendis emerged as Sri Lanka’s most reliable batsman, with an extraordinary average of 74.96. His ability to convert outings into big scores was unmatched, with five centuries in just 16 innings, underlining his immense contribution to Sri Lanka’s Test success.

6. Ravindra Jadeja (India) – All-rounder

Tickets (bowling): 21
windows: 48
Bowling average: 24.29
Best bowling in a match: 10/220
Five-wicket hauls: 3
10-wicket match hauls: 1

Jadeja was the quintessential all-rounder, providing breakthroughs with the ball and stability with the bat. His ability to bowl long spells and get spin on spinning tracks made him an indispensable asset for India.

7. Mohammad Rizwan (Pakistan) – Goalkeeper

Entrance: 13
Racing: 539
Average: 44.91
Half Centuries: 2
Ages: 1
Strike rate: 59.82

Behind the stumps, Rizwan’s agility and sharp reflexes saved crucial runs. With the bat, his ability to counter-attack and stabilize the innings under pressure was invaluable for Pakistan.

8. Kagiso Rabada (South Africa) – Bowler

Entrance: 16
windows: 34
Bowling average: 19.94
Best bowling in a match: 9/72
Five-wicket hauls: 2
10-wicket match hauls: 0

Rabada’s fiery spells made him South Africa’s preferred bowler. His unparalleled ability to swing the ball both ways and generate pace posed a constant threat to batsmen.

9. Jasprit Bumrah (India) – Bowler

Entrance: 26
windows: 71
Bowling average: 14.92
Best bowling in a match: 9/91
Five-wicket hauls: 5
10-wicket match hauls: 0

Bumrah’s lethal accuracy and unplayable yorkers made him the standout bowler of 2024. His remarkable average of 14.92 and consistent five-wicket hauls highlighted his ability to single-handedly change matches.

10. Josh Hazlewood (Australia) – Bowler

Entrance: 13
windows: 35
Bowling average: 13.60
Best bowling in a match: 9/79
Five-wicket hauls: 2
10-wicket match hauls: 0

Hazlewood’s mastery of the line and length proved critical to Australia’s success. His ability to extract bounce and movement made him a nightmare for hitters on all surfaces.

11. Prabath Jayasuriya (Sri Lanka) – Bowler

Entrance: 18
windows: 48
Bowling average: 32.20
Best bowling in a match: 9/181
Five-wicket hauls: 4
10-wicket match hauls: 0

Jayasuriya’s spin magic was key to Sri Lanka’s resurgence in Test cricket. With four five-wicket hauls, he consistently produced match-winning performances, especially on subcontinental pitches.