Four Indian Stars Shine in ICC's T20 World Cup Team of the Tournament
After India's emphatic victory over New Zealand in the T20 World Cup final, the International Cricket Council (ICC) has unveiled its official Team of the Tournament, reflecting India's dominance with four players making the cut. The selections were based solely on standout performances throughout the competition, highlighting key contributors from various nations.
Indian Contingent Leads the Charge
Sanju Samson, who captained and kept wickets for India, emerged as the Player of the Tournament despite playing only five matches. His career-defining knocks in the knockout stages, including a record 24 sixes in a single edition, solidified his place. Ishan Kishan proved an obvious choice with brisk half-centuries, notably a 77 off 40 against Pakistan, and delivered high-impact innings, scoring a 25-ball 54 in the final.
Hardik Pandya showcased his all-round prowess, shouldering a heavy bowling workload at the death and hammering 114 runs in that phase. His rapid 27 off 12 balls and 2/38 against England were crucial. Jasprit Bumrah, described as India's "cheat code," dismantled opponents with an economy rate of 6.2, saving his best for the final with 4/15 against New Zealand.
Global Standouts in the ICC XI
The team features other top performers: Sahibzada Farhan of Pakistan, the tournament's highest run-getter with 383 runs and two centuries, surpassing Virat Kohli's 2014 record. Will Jacks of England delivered match-winning assaults and valuable off-spin, while Jason Holder of West Indies impressed with both bat and ball.
In the bowling department, Adil Rashid of England was the obvious spin choice, exploiting spin-friendly surfaces, and Lungi Ngidi of South Africa used his change-of-pace to choke opponents. South Africa's Aiden Markram was named captain of the ICC team.
Notable Omissions and 12th Man
World Cup-winning captain Suryakumar Yadav unfortunately missed out, while Finn Allen of New Zealand was named 12th man for his explosive starts, including the fastest century in T20 World Cup history. The ICC team also includes Blessing Muzarabani and Shadley van Schalkwyk as 12th man in their lineup.
This selection underscores the tournament's diverse talent and India's significant impact, celebrating individual excellence that contributed to memorable cricketing moments.
