T20 cricket, where players can soar to great heights in one season and be eclipsed in the next, Harsha Bhogle’s annual selection of a T20 Team of the Year has become a much-anticipated event. Known for his insightful analysis and deep understanding of the game, Bhogle’s picks often spark debate, and his latest choice for 2024 has done just that by omitting Virat Kohli.
Travis Head
Leading the batting charge in Bhogle’s team is Travis Head, whose explosive innings have become the stuff of legend. His approach to T20 cricket is aggressive yet calculated, making him a nightmare for bowlers in the powerplay. Head’s performances in the IPL and international T20s have been nothing short of spectacular, often setting the tone for the innings or rescuing teams from precarious positions with his bat.
Phil Salt
Next up, Bhogle has included Phil Salt, an English opener whose rise has been meteoric. His ability to score quickly, particularly in the opening overs, has made him one of the most talked-about players in the T20 format. Salt’s technique against both pace and spin, combined with his fearless approach, marks him as a future star, potentially leading England’s charge in global T20 tournaments.
Sanju Samson
Sanju Samson’s inclusion is a nod to his consistent performances over the year. Samson has shown that he can anchor the innings or accelerate when needed, a versatility that makes him invaluable at number three. His captaincy with Rajasthan Royals in the IPL has also been commendable, adding another layer to his cricketing prowess.
Nicholas Pooran
At number four, Nicholas Pooran has been recognized for his dynamic batting. His ability to change the game in the middle overs with his clean hitting has been pivotal for West Indies. Pooran’s performances in various T20 leagues around the world have highlighted his adaptability and skill, making him a key component of Bhogle’s team.
Heinrich Klaasen
Heinrich Klaasen, known for his destructive batting, particularly against spin, finds a spot in the middle order. His strike rate in the IPL and international matches has been among the best, showcasing his ability to take the game away from the opposition in just a few overs. His presence adds significant power and depth to this T20 lineup.
Hardik Pandya
Hardik Pandya’s all-round abilities make him an automatic choice for any T20 team. His contribution with both bat and ball, along with his leadership qualities, has been crucial for India and his IPL teams. Pandya’s knack for performing under pressure, especially in the death overs, cements his place in Bhogle’s team.
Andre Russell
The inclusion of Andre Russell speaks volumes about his impact in T20 cricket. His ability to turn games around with his explosive batting and effective bowling in the death overs is unparalleled. Often, Russell’s performances have been game-defining, making him a key player in any T20 side.
Rashid Khan
Rashid Khan, arguably one of the best T20 bowlers, finds his spot in the team for his wicket-taking abilities and control in the middle overs. His variations and deceptive pace have made him a go-to bowler for many franchises and national teams. Khan’s contribution extends beyond bowling, offering handy runs down the order.
Varun Chakravarthy
Varun Chakravarthy has been a revelation in T20 cricket with his mystery spin. His performances in the IPL have been standout, often bamboozling top international batsmen with his unique bowling style. His selection underlines Bhogle’s appreciation for bowlers who can change the course of a match.
Arshdeep Singh
Arshdeep Singh brings the left-arm pace option, crucial for any T20 team. His ability to swing the new ball and his effectiveness with yorkers in the death overs have made him a vital part of India’s T20 setup. His performances have shown maturity beyond his years, making him a valuable asset.
Jasprit Bumrah
Rounding off the team is Jasprit Bumrah, whose mastery over death bowling is second to none. His ability to bowl under pressure, combined with his variety of deliveries, makes him one of the most feared bowlers in T20 cricket. Bumrah’s inclusion is a testament to his consistent excellence.
The Virat Kohli Conundrum
The exclusion of Virat Kohli from this team has raised eyebrows. Known for his consistency and ability to anchor innings, Virat Kohli’s absence from Bhogle’s list might reflect a shift in the criteria for T20 cricket, where strike rates and aggressive play are increasingly valued. While Virat Kohli has been one of the greatest in the format, his performances in 2024 might not have matched the explosive nature required for Bhogle’s team this year.
This selection by Bhogle underlines the dynamic nature of T20 cricket, where even the most established players need to adapt continuously to the demands of the game. It also sends a message about the importance of innovation, aggression, and versatility in what has become the most popular format of cricket globally.
Looking Forward
Harsha Bhogle’s T20 Team of the Year for 2024 not only celebrates the achievements of players who have excelled but also sets the tone for what might be expected from players in this fast-paced format. The omission of Virat Kohli from this prestigious list is a talking point, but it also showcases the depth of talent worldwide, ensuring that T20 cricket remains as unpredictable and exciting as ever.
