The ICC has revealed its Women’s T20I Team of the Year 2024, honoring the best players in the shortest format of cricket. This prestigious lineup celebrates cricketers who showed extraordinary performances throughout the year, whether with the bat, ball, or both. Among these exceptional players, Pakistan’s Sadia Iqbal earned a well-deserved place in the team after a remarkable year that showcased her talent as a left-arm spinner.
Sadia Iqbal impressed cricket fans worldwide with her outstanding bowling skills in 2024. Playing in 19 matches, she took 30 wickets at an excellent bowling average of 14.30. Her standout performance came during the Asia Cup, where she picked up 4 wickets for just 16 runs against Sri Lanka. Sadia’s ability to deliver under pressure made her one of the most reliable bowlers in Pakistan’s lineup.
The ICC Women’s T20I Team of the Year also included several other star performers who had incredible seasons in 2024. South Africa’s Laura Wolvaardt led the team as captain, thanks to her consistency and leadership. With 673 runs in 19 matches, she proved her ability to play match-winning innings, including a fantastic century against Sri Lanka.
India’s Smriti Mandhana was another player who grabbed attention with her brilliant batting. Scoring 763 runs in 23 matches, she remained one of the most consistent run-getters of the year. Her stylish shots and three consecutive half-centuries against the West Indies were the highlights of her season.
Sri Lanka’s Chamari Athapaththu showcased her all-round brilliance, scoring 720 runs and taking 21 wickets in 2024. Her exceptional performances, including a stunning unbeaten century and leading Sri Lanka to an Asia Cup victory, made her an invaluable player for her team.
West Indies’ Hayley Matthews and England’s Nat Sciver-Brunt also earned spots for their all-round contributions. Matthews scored 538 runs and took 14 wickets, while Sciver-Brunt impressed with 423 runs and key performances under pressure.
New Zealand’s Melie Kerr was the undisputed star of the year, making an unforgettable impact with both bat and ball. Her 29 wickets in 18 matches and consistent performances in the T20 World Cup solidified her status as one of the best all-rounders in the game.
Young talents like Richa Ghosh of India and Orla Prendergast of Ireland also made a strong impact. Ghosh’s aggressive batting style and Prendergast’s brilliant all-round abilities highlighted the depth of talent in women’s cricket.
The bowling unit of the team featured India’s Deepti Sharma and South Africa’s Marizanne Kapp, alongside Pakistan’s Sadia Iqbal. Deepti was a spin wizard, taking 30 wickets in 23 matches, while Kapp contributed both with the ball and bat.
The ICC Women’s T20I Team of the Year 2024 represents the best talent from around the world. These players have not only performed exceptionally but have also inspired millions of young cricketers globally. The growth of women’s cricket continues to be fueled by such trailblazers, ensuring the sport’s future remains bright and exciting.
Sadia Iqbal’s inclusion in this elite team is a moment of pride for Pakistan cricket. Her achievements reflect the hard work and dedication that players put into their game. As women’s cricket continues to gain more recognition, performances like Sadia’s will play a vital role in bringing the sport to new heights.
Read Also: Shaheen Afridi Return to Test Cricket as Aqib Javed Sets the Rules!
1 thought on “Sadia Iqbal Shines in ICC Women T20I Team of the Year 2024!”