The International Cricket Council (ICC) has unveiled its Men’s T20I Team of the Year for 2024, celebrating exceptional performances in the shortest format of the game. Among the world’s cricketing elite, Pakistan’s pride, Babar Azam, stands tall as the only Pakistani to make it to the prestigious list.

Babar Azam: A Year of Consistency and Brilliance
Babar Azam, known for his exquisite stroke play and unwavering consistency, had an extraordinary year in T20 cricket. With 738 runs in 24 matches, including six half-centuries, he continued to anchor Pakistan’s innings and upheld his reputation as one of the finest batsmen in modern cricket. His presence in the ICC Men’s T20I Team of the Year is a testament to his skill, determination, and leadership.

A Star-Studded Lineup
The team is captained by India’s Rohit Sharma, who led his nation to a glorious T20 World Cup victory. Rohit dazzled with 378 runs in just 11 matches at a remarkable strike rate of 160.16. Joining him are other standout performers:

• Travis Head (Australia): Scoring 539 runs in 15 matches, Head showcased his explosive batting prowess.
• Phil Salt (England): With 467 runs in 17 matches, Salt was a key player for England’s T20 campaign.
• Hardik Pandya (India): A true all-rounder, Pandya contributed 352 runs and took 16 wickets in 17 games.
• Rashid Khan (Afghanistan): The spin maestro claimed an incredible 31 wickets in just 14 matches.
• Wanindu Hasaranga (Sri Lanka): With a stunning tally of 38 wickets, Hasaranga dominated as a bowler.

Zimbabwe’s Sikandar Raza and the West Indies’ Nicholas Pooran also made their presence felt with their all-round performances and finishing abilities, respectively.

Babar Azam’s inclusion in this elite team reinforces Pakistan’s legacy in international cricket. While other nations celebrate their stars, Pakistan continues to take pride in Babar, a symbol of excellence and resilience.