As the calendar pages turn to mark the end of 2023, the cricketing world reflects on a year that has been nothing short of extraordinary. The ODI landscape in 2023 has been a fascinating journey, marked by thrilling encounters, awe-inspiring performances, and the grand spectacle of the ODI World Cup. This year has seen cricketing titans clash on various fronts, creating moments that will be etched in the memories of fans for years to come.

The highlight of 2023 undoubtedly lies in the grandeur of the ODI World Cup. Held in cricketing bastions around the globe, the tournament brought together teams from all corners, each vying for the coveted trophy. The competition was fierce, with nail-biting matches and unexpected upsets keeping fans on the edge of their seats.

In the heart of this cricketing spectacle, standout performances unfolded, shaping the narrative of the Best ODI XI of the year. Players who rose to the occasion on the grand stage of the World Cup naturally find a prominent place in this curated lineup. From dynamic all-rounders and explosive batsmen to crafty bowlers, the Best ODI XI of 2023 is a testament to the players who not only excelled in the regular ODI series but reached their zenith in the crucible of the World Cup.

Best ODI XI of the year 2023

Stylish openers

Rohit Sharma: At the forefront of the Best ODI XI for 2023 stands the formidable Rohit Sharma, a batter whose elegance and power have become synonymous with ODI cricket. Rohit’s prolific year is underscored by his remarkable statistics, amassing 1255 runs in 27 matches at an impressive average of 52.29. His highest score of 131 exemplifies his ability to anchor an innings, and with two centuries and nine fifties, Rohit consistently provided crucial starts for his team.

Beyond the numbers, it was Rohit’s captaincy and leadership qualities that shone, guiding his side through the challenging phases of the ODI World Cup and taking the Men in Blue to the finals of the grand event. India lost to Australia in the summit clash, bit in the cricketing tapestry of 2023, Rohit ‘s performances stand as a testament to his mastery and resilience in the face of formidable opposition.

Shubman Gill: Complementing Rohit at the top of the order in the Best ODI XI of 2023 is the emerging sensation, Shubman Gill. With a prolific run-scoring spree, Gill’s performances have been nothing short of spectacular. Amassing an impressive 1584 runs in 29 matches at an astonishing average of 63.36, Gill showcased maturity beyond his years.

His monumental innings of 208, along with five centuries and nine fifties, underscored his ability to convert starts into substantial scores. Gill’s fearless yet elegant approach to batting brought a breath of fresh air to the ODI arena. As a crucial pillar in the team’s batting lineup, Gill not only justified his inclusion in the Best ODI XI but also emerged as a promising force for the future of international cricket.

Dexterous middle-order:

Virat Kohli: Leading the charge in the middle order is Virat Kohli, whose performance in 2023 was nothing short of extraordinary. The Indian maestro exhibited his unparalleled consistency, amassing 1377 runs in 27 matches at a remarkable average of 72.47. Kohli’s innings were a masterclass in precision, with a highest score of 166* showcasing his ability to anchor and accelerate when needed.

The year witnessed Kohli’s bat producing six centuries and eight fifties, underlining his status as one of the premier ODI batter. Further, Kohli also broke the long-standing most tons (49) in ODIs record of Sachin Tendulkar. Beyond the numbers, Kohli’s leadership and sheer determination were crucial in guiding his team through the challenges of the ODI World Cup, leaving an enduring impact on the cricketing landscape of 2023.

Babar Azam: Babar Azam’s elegant strokeplay and consistent run-scoring made him a linchpin in the middle order during 2023. The Pakistani captain amassed 1065 runs in 25 matches at a commendable average of 46.30, showcasing his ability to anchor the innings with flair. Babar’s highest score of 151 and two centuries, along with ten fifties, highlighted his knack for converting starts into substantial innings.

As a talismanic figure for Pakistan, Babar’s contribution went beyond the batting crease, providing stability and leadership. In the dynamic tapestry of ODI cricket in 2023, his stylish elegance was a captivating feature, earning him a well-deserved place in the Best ODI XI of the year.

KL Rahul (wk): KL Rahul’s consistency in the middle order added a dynamic dimension to the Best ODI XI of 2023. The Indian batter compiled 1060 runs in 27 matches at a remarkable average of 66.25, underlining his ability to play crucial innings with grace. Rahul’s unbeaten 111* and two centuries, coupled with seven fifties, showcased his versatility and adaptability in various match situations.

Whether anchoring the innings or accelerating the run rate, Rahul’s batting prowess played a pivotal role in India’s ODI campaigns throughout the year. In a lineup teeming with talent, Rahul’s contributions in the middle order solidified his standing as one of the most reliable batsmen of 2023.

Also READ: Virat Kohli vs Babar Azam – Statistical comparison in ODIs for the year 2023

Astute all-rounders

Daryl Mitchell: Daryl Mitchell emerged as a dynamic force, both with the bat and ball, earning a deserving spot in the Best ODI XI of 2023. His aggressive batting style saw him accumulate 1204 runs in 26 matches at an impressive average of 52.34, featuring five centuries and three fifties.

Mitchell’s impactful contributions extended beyond batting, as he chipped in with nine crucial wickets, showcasing his versatility as an all-rounder. With a highest score of 134, Mitchell’s ability to change the course of a game made him an invaluable asset, contributing significantly to his team’s success in the year.

Pat Cummins (c): Pat Cummins showcased his prowess as a versatile all-rounder, making a significant impact with both bat and ball in the ODI arena in 2023. With the bat, Cummins contributed vital runs, amassing 168 in 13 matches, including a highest score of 37.

His bowling performances were equally commendable, as he scalped 17 wickets at crucial junctures, with a best bowling figure of 3/51. Cummins’ ability to provide breakthroughs with the ball and contribute crucial runs down the order made him a vital cog in the wheel of the Best ODI XI for the year. Cummins will also lead the team as under his leadership, Australia won the ODI World Cup 2023.

Dazzling bowling attack

Kuldeep Yadav: Kuldeep Yadav’s wizardry with the ball earned him a distinguished place in the Best ODI XI of 2023. The spin maestro claimed 49 wickets in 30 matches, with a best bowling performance of 5/25, showcasing his ability to bamboozle batters with his variations.

With a frugal economy rate of 4.61 and a memorable 5-wicket haul, Yadav played a pivotal role in restricting oppositions and turning the tide in favor of his team. In a format often dominated by pacers, Yadav’s spin artistry stood out, marking him as one of the premier spinners of the year.

Mohammed Shami: Mohammed Shami, the pace ace, unleashed a lethal spell of fast bowling that earned him a spot in the Best ODI XI of 2023. Shami enjoyed a terrific time with the ball and capitalized every single opportunity thrown at him.

With 43 wickets in 19 matches, including a remarkable 7/57 and four 5-wicket-hauls, Shami’s ability to dismantle batting lineups was a highlight of the year. His pace, swing, and precision made him a nightmare for opposition batsmen, and Shami’s performances played a pivotal role in shaping crucial victories for his team in the ODI format.

Mohammed Siraj: In the pantheon of fast-bowling excellence in 2023, Mohammed Siraj emerged as an exciting sensation. With 44 wickets in 25 matches, including a spectacular 6/21, Siraj’s ability to generate pace and extract movement made him a constant threat for batters.

His knack for taking crucial wickets at crucial junctures solidified his status as a match-winner. Siraj’s performances showcased a lethal combination of speed, accuracy, and the ability to swing the ball both ways, making him an integral part of the Best ODI XI for the year.

Adam Zampa: Adam Zampa, the leg-spin wizard, weaved his magic on the ODI stage in 2023, earning him a well-deserved place in the Best XI. With 38 wickets in 20 matches, including a stellar 4/8, Zampa’s ability to deceive batsmen with his leg-breaks and variations showcased his mastery over the art of spin bowling.

The Australian spinner’s economical bowling and crucial breakthroughs played a crucial role in dictating the tempo of the game. In a format where spinners often play second fiddle, Zampa’s impact stood out, cementing his position as one of the premier spinners of the year.

Shaheen Afridi: Left-arm pace sensation Shaheen Afridi dominated the ODI circuit in 2023, earning him a spot as a key bowler in the Best ODI XI. With 42 wickets in 21 matches, including a notable 5/54, Afridi’s ability to swing the ball and extract bounce made him a constant threat for opposition batters.

His knack for picking up crucial wickets during powerplays and death overs showcased his versatility and impact. Afridi’s left-arm menace added a different dimension to the bowling attack, making him an indispensable component of the Best ODI XI for the year.

Also READ: Top 5 ODI catch-takers in the year 2023

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