Indian cricket expert Harsha Bhogle recently announced his Test Team of the Year for 2024, highlighting the standout performers with both bat and ball. The selection features a mix of experienced cricketers and rising stars, showcasing some of the finest talent in world cricket today.

In a surprising twist, Indian stalwarts Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, and Rishabh Pant were left out. Kohli and Rohit endured a forgettable year with the bat, while Pant had a mixed run, making their exclusion unsurprising. Bhogle prioritized players who consistently delivered throughout the year, rewarding their efforts with a spot in his prestigious XI.

Yashasvi Jaiswal and Ben Duckett Openers

Bhogle’s first pick is India’s rising star Yashasvi Jaiswal, who amassed 1,332 runs in 27 innings at an average of over 52. Bhogle praised the young opener for his consistency, making him an easy choice. England’s Ben Duckett, with 1,100 runs to his name, is Bhogle’s second opener. Duckett's centuries in Rajkot and Multan earned him recognition for his contributions across different conditions.

Kane Williamson and Joe Root Hold Key Middle-Order Spots

At No. 3 and No. 4, Bhogle named New Zealand’s Kane Williamson and England’s Joe Root. Williamson scored 1,013 runs at an average of 59.58, while Root led the charts with 1,556 runs, including six centuries. Bhogle noted that it was difficult to overlook Williamson despite some of his runs coming in home conditions, but his class and consistency stood out.

Mohammad Rizwan and Ravindra Jadeja Complete the All-Rounder Slots

Pakistan captain Mohammad Rizwan was named as Bhogle’s wicketkeeper and No. 7 in the team. Rizwan’s leadership and batting ability made him an essential pick. India’s Ravindra Jadeja, known for his all-round brilliance, secured the No. 8 spot, contributing with both bat and ball throughout the year.

Lethal Fast-Bowling Trio

Bhogle’s pace attack features England’s Gus Atkinson, South Africa’s Kagiso Rabada, and India’s Jasprit Bumrah. Atkinson took 52 wickets in 11 Tests, while Rabada claimed 32 wickets in just 7 matches. Bumrah, who was named captain of Bhogle’s Test team, so far leading the year with an incredible haul of 62 wickets in 12 matches, showcasing his dominance across formats and conditions.

Bhogle's Test team of year for 2024: Yashasvi Jaiswal, Ben Duckett, Kane Williamson, Joe Root, Harry Brook, Kamindu Mendis, Mohammad Rizwan (wk), Ravindra Jadeja, Gus Atkinson, Kagiso Rabada, Jasprit Bumrah (c)