2023 marked the successful hosting of the ODI World Cup in India, where the host nation reached the finals but fell short against Australia, who clinched their sixth World Cup title. Travis Head’s exceptional century in the final at the Narendra Modi Stadium played a pivotal role in Australia’s victory.
Despite his remarkable performances, Head was surprisingly omitted from Star Sports’ recently released “ODI Team of the Year 2023.” The team features eight Indian players, reflecting India’s dominant performance in the World Cup, where they remained undefeated until the final.
The opening slots in the team are occupied by Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill, who ended the year with 1255 and 1584 ODI runs respectively. Virat Kohli, with 1377 runs and six centuries in 2023, secures the number three position. New Zealand’s Daryl Mitchell, with 1204 runs, follows at number four, accompanied by KL Rahul (1060 runs) and South Africa’s Heinrich Klaasen (927 runs).
In the spin department, Adam Zampa and Kuldeep Yadav have been selected, with Zampa claiming 38 wickets and Kuldeep leading the chart with 49 wickets in 2023. The pace attack is spearheaded by India’s trio of Jasprit Bumrah (28 wickets), Mohammed Siraj (44 wickets), and Mohammed Shami (43 wickets).
Star Sports’ “ODI Team of the Year 2023”:
- Rohit Sharma
- Shubman Gill
- Virat Kohli
- Daryl Mitchell
- KL Rahul
- Heinrich Klaasen
- Adam Zampa
- Kuldeep Yadav
- Jasprit Bumrah
- Mohammed Siraj
- Mohammed Shami
The absence of Pakistani players in the team has raised eyebrows, especially given their historically strong ODI performances. Star Sports’ decision has sparked discussions among fans and experts, with many expressing surprise and analyzing the selection criteria.
As the cricket world looks forward to more thrilling contests in 2024, the Star Sports’ ODI Team of the Year 2023 serves as a reflection of the standout performers in a year filled with memorable cricketing moments.
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