Harsha Bhogle’s T20 Team of the Year features standout performers excelling with bat and ball. The lineup includes dynamic all-rounders, explosive batters, and match-winning bowlers, showcasing a perfect blend of skill, versatility, and game-changing abilities.
Travis Head
At the forefront of Bhogle’s lineup is Travis Head, renowned for his legendary explosive innings. Combining aggression with calculated precision, Head poses a significant threat to bowlers during the powerplay. His remarkable performances in the IPL and international T20s have consistently stood out, whether by setting the tone for an innings or rescuing his team from challenging situations.
Phil Salt
Bhogle’s next pick is Phil Salt, the dynamic English opener whose rapid rise in T20 cricket has garnered widespread attention. Known for his explosive scoring in the early overs, Salt’s proficiency against both pace and spin sets him apart. His fearless approach and technical skill position him as a future cornerstone of England’s lineup in global T20 competitions.
Sanju Samson
Sanju Samson earns his place in the team for his consistent performances throughout the year. His ability to either anchor the innings or shift gears when required highlights his versatility, making him a reliable choice at number three. Additionally, his commendable captaincy with the Rajasthan Royals in the IPL showcases his leadership skills, further enhancing his value.
Nicholas Pooran
Slotting in at number four, Nicholas Pooran stands out for his explosive batting. Renowned for his game-changing ability in the middle overs, Pooran’s clean striking has been a cornerstone of West Indies’ success. His impressive performances across various T20 leagues worldwide underline his adaptability and talent, securing his spot in Bhogle’s lineup
Heinrich Klaasen
Heinrich Klaasen, celebrated for his explosive batting, especially against spin, earns his place in the middle order. With one of the highest strike rates in both the IPL and international cricket, Klaasen has the knack for turning games around in mere overs. His inclusion brings immense power and depth to this formidable T20 lineup.
Hardik Pandya
Hardik Pandya’s exceptional all-round skills make him a natural fit for any T20 side. His impactful performances with both bat and ball, coupled with his strong leadership, have been vital for India and his IPL franchises. Known for delivering under pressure, particularly in the death overs, Pandya is a cornerstone of Bhogle’s team.
Andre Russell
Andre Russell’s inclusion underscores his immense influence in T20 cricket. Renowned for his game-changing explosive batting and clutch bowling in the death overs, Russell consistently delivers match-defining performances. His ability to single-handedly shift the course of a game makes him an indispensable asset to any T20 team.
Rashid Khan
Rashid Khan, widely regarded as one of the finest T20 bowlers, earns his place for his exceptional wicket-taking ability and control in the middle overs. His clever variations and deceptive pace make him a match-winner for both franchises and national teams. Additionally, his handy contributions with the bat add depth to the lineup.
Varun Chakravarthy
Varun Chakravarthy has emerged as a standout talent in T20 cricket with his enigmatic mystery spin. His exceptional performances in the IPL, where he often confounds top international batsmen with his distinctive bowling, highlight his ability to turn the game in an instant. His inclusion reflects Bhogle’s admiration for bowlers capable of altering the outcome of a match.
Arshdeep Singh
Arshdeep Singh adds a crucial left-arm pace option to the team, vital for any T20 side. His skill in swinging the new ball and his deadly yorkers in the death overs have made him an essential part of India’s T20 lineup. With performances displaying maturity beyond his years, Singh has firmly established himself as a valuable asset.
Jasprit Bumrah
Jasprit Bumrah completes the team with his unmatched mastery of death bowling. His ability to deliver under pressure, coupled with a diverse range of deliveries, makes him one of the most formidable bowlers in T20 cricket. Bumrah’s inclusion is a testament to his consistent brilliance and unmatched skill.