Four England stars, an unstoppable Bumrah, and records that speak volumes—this team is a juggernaut
One thing was evident when the ICC revealed their 2024 Test Team of the Year: this squad isn't just outstanding; it's invincible because of its mix of youth and experience in the starting lineup. The team, which includes players from England, India, New Zealand, Sri Lanka, and Australia, demonstrates the domination of these cricketing heavyweights. But what genuinely defines this squad as a formidable opponent? Let's look at the three strong reasons that support its supremacy.
This team's top and middle order exudes quality and steadiness. The backbone is Joe Root, the highest run-scorer in 2024 with 1,556 runs. Root's ability to adapt to changing conditions, as well as his six centuries last year, confirms his place among the greats. Yashasvi Jaiswal, the Indian prodigy, is not far behind, with 1,478 runs at an incredible average of 52.79. His aggressive style at the top, along with England's Ben Duckett—who scored 1,149 runs with an 87.05 strike rate—forms an explosive opening partnership.
Joe Root is the leading run scorer in Test cricket in the year 2024 👏🏻
— Richard Kettleborough (@RichKettle07) January 1, 2025
Joe Root 🏴 - 1556 runs @ 55.57
100's - 6 , 50's - 5
Yashasvi Jaiswal 🇮🇳 - 1478 runs @ 54.74
100's - 3 , 50's - 9
Ben Duckett 🏴 - 1149 runs @ 37.06
100's - 2 , 50's - 6 pic.twitter.com/jRRJ0hn35s
And if that isn't enough, Harry Brook's 1,100 runs at an average of 55 and Kamindu Mendis' five centuries at an average of 74.93 solidify the middle order. This lineup does more than simply score runs; it also dictates terms.
What's the secret to an unstoppable team? A bowling unit that can instil dread in any opposition. Jasprit Bumrah leads the way with 71 wickets at an impressive 14.93 average. His performance in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy in Australia was nothing short of legendary, establishing his status as the world's best fast bowler. Pat Cummins, Australia's captain and the leader of the squad, will support Bumrah, who took 37 wickets in 2024. Add New Zealand's Matt Henry, who has 48 wickets, and you have a speed trio capable of dismantling any batting order.
To top it all off, Ravindra Jadeja's dual-threat abilities—527 runs with the bat and 48 wickets with the ball—ensure that this side has a weapon for every eventuality. On spin-friendly tracks, Jadeja is a nightmare for opponents.
Every great team requires a mix of seasoned warriors and young talents, and this XI strikes that balance. Root and Kane Williamson provide unrivalled expertise, while Jaiswal and Brook provide new vitality. Jamie Smith, the wicketkeeper, quietly made his mark with 637 runs and superb work behind the wickets.
Congratulations to the incredibly talented players named in the ICC Men's Test Team of the Year 2024 👏 pic.twitter.com/0ROskFZUIr
— ICC (@ICC) January 24, 2025
Kamindu Mendis, a 26-year-old Sri Lankan, was the year's breakout prospect, amassing 1,049 runs at over 75. Such performances by young players demonstrate the depth and dynamism of this squad.
You have a team poised to dominate when you combine a relentless batting order, a potent bowling attack, and a mix of youth and experience. With players who have consistently performed well across formats and conditions, the ICC Test Team of the Year 2024 is a perfect storm.
The question is not whether this squad is the greatest of the year but rather if any other team will ever be able to threaten their dominance.
ICC’s Test Team of The Year: Yashasvi Jaiswal, Ben Duckett, Kane Williamson, Joe Root, Harry Brook, Kamindu Mendis, Jamie Smith (WK), Ravindra Jadeja, Pat Cummins (c), Matt Henry, Jasprit Bumrah
