The year 2024 stood out as a golden chapter in the history of Test cricket, offering fans a blend of drama, skill and unpredictability. He was in the center of the action ICC World Test Championship (WTC) 2023-25 cycle, which brought a sense of urgency and competitiveness to the longest format of the game.
South AfricaTheir remarkable consistency secured them a place in the final, a testament to their dominant performance in a variety of conditions. Meanwhile, Australia, India and Sri Lanka remained in hot contention for the remaining finals spot, reflecting the global depth and quality of Test cricket.
Outstanding individual performance: the backbone of success
In 2024, individual brilliance shone brightly, with numerous players who were at their best and defined matches with their exceptional performances. Batsmen and bowlers alike displayed their mastery, creating moments that will be etched in cricketing folklore. England and India, the two teams that played the most Test matches in the year, particularly relied on outstanding efforts from their key players. These performances not only lifted their teams but also reinforced the importance of individual contributions in the team-oriented format of Test cricket.
Shocking results: Unforgettable twists of the year
The unpredictability of Test cricket has been on full display in 2024, with several unexpected results shaking up the cricketing hierarchy. Bangladeshhistoric victory over Pakistan it was a watershed moment, showing their growth as a powerful Test playing nation. It was equally surprising New Zealanddominant display in India, where they inflicted a rare home series defeat on the hosts. These results were a reminder that cricket’s longest format is as unpredictable as it is captivating, with underdogs capable of toppling the giants on any given day.
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AB de Villiers’ Test XI of 2024: A legend’s perspective
Adding news of the year, AB de Villiersone of the most respected voices in cricket and a former all-format competitor, revealed his Test XI of 2024. The announcement immediately sparked widespread debate as fans and pundits analyzed his selections. Known for his deep understanding of the game and appreciation for skill, de Villiers’ team reflected a blend of established superstars and rising talent. His insights offered a fascinating look at the qualities that define success in Test cricket, enriching discussions among cricket enthusiasts around the world.
1. Yashasvi Jaiswal (India)
- Changes: 29
- Does: 1478
- average: 54.74
- Half a century: 9
- Centuries: 3
- Strike Rate: 69.35
The Indian left-hander has cemented his position as one of the best openers in Test cricket in 2024. Known for his patience and ability to run fast, Jaiswal combined consistency with aggression when required. His three centuries, including crucial knocks in challenging conditions, were instrumental in India’s batting stability.
2. Ben Duckett (England)
- Changes: 32
- Does: 1149
- average: 37.06
- Half a century: 6
- Centuries: 2
- Strike Rate: 87.04
England’s aggressive opening made for quick starts throughout the year. Duckett’s ability to maintain a high strike rate of 87.04 in Tests has brought a dynamic edge to the top order, complementing his solid partnership with other batsmen.
3. Joe Root (England)
- Changes: 31
- Does: 1556
- average: 55.57
- Half a century: 5
- Centuries: 6
- Strike Rate: 63.38
Root’s consistent output made him a vital cog in England’s batting line-up. With six centuries in the year, he has shown his ability to anchor the innings and accelerate when needed. His class and adaptability reaffirmed his status as one of the modern greats.
4. Harry Brook (England)
- Changes: 20
- Does: 1100
- average: 55.00
- Half a century: 3
- Centuries: 4
- Strike Rate: 85.00
A rising star in England’s middle order, Brook’s aggressive but calculated approach was a revelation in 2024. His four centuries in just 20 innings showed his hunger for runs and his ability to dominate the bowlers in all conditions.
5. Kamindu Mendis (Sri Lanka)
- Changes: 16
- Does: 1049
- average: 74.96
- Half a century: 3
- Centuries: 5
- Strike Rate: 65.30
Mendis has proved to be Sri Lanka’s most reliable batsman, with a staggering average of 74.96. His ability to convert starts into big scores was unparalleled, with five centuries in just 16 innings, highlighting his immense contribution to Sri Lanka’s Test success.
6. Ravindra Jadeja (India) – all-rounder
- Innings (bowling): 21
- Door: 48
- Bowling Average: 24.29
- Best bowling of the match: 10/220
- Five door draws: 3
- 10-ball matches: 1
Jadeja was the quintessential all-rounder, providing penetration with the ball and stability with the bat. His ability to bowl long spells and extract spin on the spinning lanes made him an indispensable asset for India.
7. Mohammad Rizwan (Pakistan) – Wicketkeeper
- Changes: 13
- Does: 539
- average: 44.91
- Half a century: 2
- Centuries: 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 has been invaluable for Pakistan.
8. Kagiso Rabada (JAR) – Bowler
- Changes: 16
- Door: 34
- Bowling Average: 19.94
- Best bowling in the match: 9/72
- Five door draws: 2
- Matches with 10 wickets: 0
Rabada’s fiery spells made him South Africa’s favorite bowler. His unmatched ability to swing the ball both ways and generate pace was a constant threat to the batsmen.
9. Jasprit Bumrah (India) – Bowler
- Changes: 26
- Door: 71
- Bowling Average: 14.92
- Best bowling in the match: 9/91
- Five door draws: 5
- 10-ball matches: 0
Bumrah’s deadly accuracy and unplayable yorkers made him the outstanding bowler of 2024. His incredible average of 14.92 and consistent five-wicket hauls highlighted his ability to single-handedly turn matches around.
10. Josh Hazlewood (Australia) – Bowler
- Changes: 13
- Door: 35
- Bowling Average: 13.60
- Best bowling in the match: 9/79
- Five door draws: 2
- 10-ball matches: 0
Hazlewood’s mastery of line and length proved crucial in Australia’s success. His ability to extract bounce and movement made him a nightmare for batsmen on all surfaces.
11. Prabath Jayasuriya (Sri Lanka) – Bowler
- Changes: 18
- Door: 48
- Bowling Average: 32.20
- Best bowling in the match: 9/181
- Five door draws: 4
- Matches with 10 wickets: 0
Jayasuriya’s spin wizardry has been instrumental in Sri Lanka’s revival in Test cricket. With four five-wicket hauls, he has consistently delivered match-winning performances, especially on subcontinental pitches.
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