In cricket, where legends craft legacies and performances define careers, AB de Villiers’ recent announcement of his Test XI for 2024 has ignited conversations across the globe. Known for his sharp cricketing mind and an eye for talent, de Villiers’ selections have always been a point of interest, especially when they involve the exclusion of players like Virat Kohli, with whom he shares a profound friendship.
De Villiers, a name synonymous with cricketing brilliance, has always had a knack for spotting potential and acknowledging excellence. His choice of players for this year’s Test XI is no different, showcasing his deep understanding of the game’s nuances. His selections aren’t merely based on stats but on how players have adapted, contributed, and sometimes, redefined Test cricket over the course of the year.
AB de Villiers Picks His Test XI Of The Year: No Place For Virat Kohli
Yashasvi Jaiswal
The young Indian opener, Yashasvi Jaiswal, has been a revelation. His technique, patience, and ability to convert starts into substantial scores have made him a vital part of India’s Test setup. His performance in 2024 has been a testament to his growing stature as one of the world’s premier openers.
Ben Duckett
England’s Ben Duckett has brought a new level of aggression to Test cricket’s opening slot. His high strike rate and fearless approach have not only set the tone for England’s innings but have also shown that Test cricket can be entertaining with aggressive batting from the get-go.
Joe Root
Joe Root’s inclusion is almost a given, given his consistent performances. Root has been England’s backbone, with his ability to play both anchor and accelerator roles. His six centuries in 2024 underline his mastery over the format, making him one of the must-watch players.
Harry Brook
The emergence of Harry Brook has been a highlight for England. His dynamic batting style has added a new dimension to England’s middle order, proving that Test cricket can be as exciting as any T20 game when young talents like Brook take to the crease.
Kamindu Mendis
Sri Lanka’s Kamindu Mendis has had a stellar year, proving that resilience and talent from the island nation are still very much alive. His high average and numerous centuries have been crucial in Sri Lanka’s resurgence in Test cricket.
Ravindra Jadeja
Jadeja’s versatility has once again been on full display. As an all-rounder, his contribution with both bat and ball has been instrumental. His bowling, especially in home conditions, has been game-changing, offering India the balance they often seek.
Mohammad Rizwan
Behind the stumps, Mohammad Rizwan for Pakistan has shown why he’s considered one of the best in the business. His batting contributions, especially in tough situations, have added depth to Pakistan’s lineup.
Kagiso Rabada
South Africa’s Kagiso Rabada continues to be a force. His pace, precision, and ability to perform under pressure have made him a constant threat, justifying his place in de Villiers’ XI.
Jasprit Bumrah
Perhaps the most obvious choice, Jasprit Bumrah‘s inclusion speaks volumes about his dominance in Test cricket. His performances have been match-winning, bringing a unique blend of skill and strategy to India’s bowling attack.
Josh Hazlewood
Australia’s Josh Hazlewood has been relentless, with his accuracy and bounce making him a formidable opponent. His consistent performances have been crucial for Australia in maintaining their status as one of the top Test teams.
Prabath Jayasuriya
Lastly, Prabath Jayasuriya from Sri Lanka has shown that spin can still be a game-changer in Test cricket. His ability to take wickets in clusters has been vital for Sri Lanka, especially in subcontinental conditions.
The absence of Virat Kohli from this lineup has certainly raised eyebrows, but it also highlights a key aspect of de Villiers’ selection criteria – performance in the current year. Kohli, despite his monumental achievements, had a year that didn’t meet his usual standards in the Test format, which de Villiers, with his objectivity, had to acknowledge.
This selection by de Villiers not only celebrates the players who shone brightly in 2024 but also opens up discussions about the ever-evolving nature of cricket, where even the greatest must continually prove themselves. It’s a reminder that friendships and legacies aside, cricket at its heart is about the runs scored, the wickets taken, and the moments that define careers. Through this XI, de Villiers has not only honored individual excellence but has also painted a picture of what Test cricket could look like in the years to come.
