T20 World Cup 2024: Best XI & Flop XI from group matches ft. Virat Kohli - Cricket Winner

The ICC T20 World Cup 2024 is in full swing, and it has been nothing short of spectacular. With 20 teams competing fiercely in the group stages, the tournament has delivered exhilarating matches, stunning upsets, and standout performances.

As we head towards the next round, the Super 8, cricket fans worldwide are eagerly anticipating more thrilling action. Notably, the exits of teams like Pakistan, New Zealand, and Sri Lanka have come as a major surprise, adding an unexpected twist to the competition.

Unexpected Exits

The early exit of cricketing giants like Pakistan, New Zealand, and Sri Lanka has shocked fans and experts alike. These teams, known for their strong performances in past tournaments, failed to make it past the group stage, highlighting the unpredictability and competitive nature of the T20 format.

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Super 8 Group Formation

The Super 8 round is set with two groups of four teams each. These groups were formed based on the performance in the initial stages, and now the competition will intensify as teams vie for a spot in the semi-finals. This format ensures that only the best of the best will progress, promising high-stakes matches and edge-of-the-seat excitement.

Best XI of the Group Stage

Choosing the Best XI from the group stage wasn’t easy, given the plethora of brilliant performances. However, these players have consistently delivered match-winning contributions and deserve a spot in this elite team.

1. Rahmanullah Gurbaz (AFG): Rahmanullah Gurbaz has scored 76, 80, and 11 in the first three innings highlight his aggressive yet consistent batting style. With 167 runs at an average of 55.66 and a strike rate of 154.62.

2. Travis Head (AUS): Travis Head has scored 148 runs in four innings with an average of 49.33 and a strike rate of 157.44. His highest score of 68 shows his capability to anchor the innings and accelerate when needed.

3. Rishabh Pant (IND) – Wicket Keeper: Rishabh Pant, with 96 runs at an average of 48 and a strike rate of 124.67, has shown his ability to stabilize the innings and finish strongly.

4. Aaron Jones (USA): Aaron Jones’s unbeaten 36 against Pakistan in a tricky chase demonstrated his maturity and composure under pressure. His performance has been a bright spot for the USA, and he fits perfectly at No. 4 in this team.

5. Marcus Stoinis (AUS): Marcus Stoinis has scored 156 runs at an average of 78 and a strike rate of 190.24, Stoinis has played crucial innings, including two half-centuries. With six wickets at an economy rate of 5.77, he is a valuable all-rounder.

6. David Miller (SA): David Miller’s 101 runs at an average of 50.50, including a match-winning 59 not out, underline his prowess as a finisher. His ability to perform under pressure makes him an indispensable part of this XI.

7. Hardik Pandya (IND): Although Hardik Pandya had limited opportunities with the bat, he shone with the ball, taking seven wickets in three matches at an economy rate of 5.41. His all-round capabilities make him a key player in this lineup.

8. Rashid Khan (AFG) – Captain: Rashid Khan’s leadership and bowling have been instrumental for Afghanistan. As captain, he has led by example, contributing with both ball and bat. His ability to turn matches around with his leg-spin makes him a crucial player.

9. Adam Zampa (AUS): Adam Zampa has been a consistent wicket-taker for Australia, with nine wickets in four matches at an economy rate of 5.87. His control during the middle overs has been vital in restricting the opposition.

10. Jasprit Bumrah (IND): Jasprit Bumrah’s early breakthroughs and economical bowling have been crucial for India. With five wickets in three innings and an economy rate of 4.09, Bumrah has been a key player in the powerplay and death overs.

11. Fazalhaq Farooqi (AFG): Fazalhaq Farooqi is the leading wicket-taker of the tournament, with 12 wickets in three games at an economy rate of 3.70. His remarkable figures, including 5/9, 4/17, and 3/16, have been instrumental in Afghanistan’s success.

Flop XI of the Group Stage

While many players have shone brightly, some big names have failed to live up to expectations. Here’s the Flop XI of the group stage, highlighting those who had a tournament to forget.

1. Quinton de Kock (SA) (Wk): Quinton de Kock struggled throughout the group stage, scoring only 48 runs in four innings at an average of 12. His lack of form has been a significant concern for South Africa.

2. Virat Kohli (IND): Virat Kohli’s performance was a major disappointment, with just five runs in three innings. His scores of 1, 4, and 0 are the lowest among Indian batters, marking a rare poor run for the star player.

3. Fakhar Zaman (PAK): Fakhar Zaman managed only 33 runs in four innings at an average of 8.25. His form was a key reason for Pakistan’s early exit, highlighting the challenges faced by the team.

4. Usman Khan (PAK): Usman Khan could only muster 20 runs in four innings, averaging 6.66 with a strike rate of 90.90. His poor form compounded Pakistan’s batting woes.

5. Rovman Powell (WI) – Captain: Despite West Indies making it to the next round, Rovman Powell’s individual performance was subpar. He has scored 39 runs in three innings at an average of 13.

6. Shadab Khan (PAK): Shadab Khan had a disappointing tournament. He has scored 44 runs in three innings and failing to take a single wicket in four overs.

7. Marco Jansen (SA): Marco Jansen struggled both with bat and ball, scoring only nine runs in three innings and taking two wickets in four games. His form was a concern for South Africa.

8. Mitchell Santner (NZ): Mitchell Santner, New Zealand’s main spinner, could only take three wickets in three matches and contributed just 25 runs with the bat. His performance was below expectations.

9. Mitchell Starc (AUS): Mitchell Starc picked up only two wickets in three games, with an economy rate of 8.80. His high economy rate has been a worry for Australia.

10. Chris Jordan (ENG): Chris Jordan’s three wickets in three matches came at a high economy rate of 10.87. His performance has been disappointing in this low-scoring tournament.

11. Shaheen Afridi (PAK): Shaheen Afridi finished with five wickets, three of which came in the last match against Ireland. His lack of impact in the initial matches contributed to Pakistan’s early exit.