The ICC has revealed its Best XI for the recently concluded Champions Trophy. In a thrilling final, India triumphed over New Zealand by four wickets. The selection, announced on Monday, features five Indian players in the main squad, with an additional Indian as the 12th man.
Contents
- 1 Five Indian Players Make the Cut
- 2 Rohit Sharma Misses Out
- 3 Dynamic Opening Partnership: Rachin Ravindra and Ibrahim Zadran
- 4 Kohli Holds the No. 3 Spot
- 5 Solid Middle Order: Shreyas Iyer and KL Rahul
- 6 Glenn Phillips: The All-Rounder at No. 6
- 7 Azmatullah Omarzai and Mitchell Santner Bolster, the All-Rounder Department
- 8 Pace and Spin Attack: Shami, Henry, and Chakravarthy
- 9 ICC Champions Trophy Best XI
Five Indian Players Make the Cut
The Indian cricketers who secured a spot in the prestigious XI include Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, KL Rahul, Varun Chakravarthy, and Mohammed Shami. Axar Patel has been named the 12th man, reinforcing India’s dominance in the tournament. Meanwhile, four players from runners-up New Zealand, including the tournament’s best performer, Rachin Ravindra, have been included. Additionally, two players from Afghanistan earned their place on the squad.
Rohit Sharma Misses Out
Despite leading India to victory, Rohit Sharma was not selected as an opener in the Best XI. His inconsistent performances in the group stages played a significant role in his omission. Instead, Rachin Ravindra, who had a phenomenal run in the tournament, was chosen. Ravindra amassed 263 runs, making him the highest run-scorer of the Champions Trophy. He played two match-winning knocks: a brilliant 112 against Bangladesh and a crucial 108 against South Africa in the semi-final.
Dynamic Opening Partnership: Rachin Ravindra and Ibrahim Zadran
Joining Ravindra at the top is Afghanistan’s Ibrahim Zadran, who left a mark despite his team not making it to the semi-finals. His remarkable 177-run knock against England set a new record for the highest individual score in Champions Trophy history, making him an undeniable choice for the squad.
Kohli Holds the No. 3 Spot
Virat Kohli secures the pivotal No. 3 position in the lineup. His 218 runs made him the fifth-highest run-scorer in the tournament. Notably, Kohli played match-winning innings against Pakistan (century) and Australia (84 in the semi-final), showcasing his ability to anchor the innings under pressure.
Solid Middle Order: Shreyas Iyer and KL Rahul
Shreyas Iyer and KL Rahul have been instrumental in stabilizing India’s middle order. Shreyas emerged as India’s highest run-scorer with 243 runs, while Rahul accumulated 140 runs, delivering crucial performances in the semi-final and final. Their consistent contributions earned them a well-deserved place in the ICC’s Best XI.
Glenn Phillips: The All-Rounder at No. 6
New Zealand’s Glenn Phillips has been included at No. 6, recognized for his exceptional all-round abilities. His fielding and batting prowess stood out as he took three sensational catches, including a flying grab to dismiss Kohli in the group stage. Additionally, his ability to deliver part-time spin makes him a valuable asset.
Azmatullah Omarzai and Mitchell Santner Bolster, the All-Rounder Department
Afghanistan’s Azmatullah Omarzai joins as an all-rounder after contributing significantly with both bat and ball. He scored 126 runs and took seven wickets, proving his versatility. New Zealand’s Mitchell Santner, who claimed nine wickets in the tournament, has been named captain of the Best XI. His knack for taking crucial wickets under pressure set him apart.
Pace and Spin Attack: Shami, Henry, and Chakravarthy
India’s Mohammed Shami made a stellar comeback after injury, securing a place in the squad by taking nine wickets in his first-ever Champions Trophy. New Zealand’s Matt Henry, who claimed 10 wickets despite missing the final due to injury, also finds a spot. Rounding off the bowling attack is India’s mystery spinner Varun Chakravarthy, who baffled opposition batters with nine wickets in just three matches.
ICC Champions Trophy Best XI
- Rachin Ravindra (New Zealand)
- Ibrahim Zadran (Afghanistan)
- Virat Kohli (India)
- Shreyas Iyer (India)
- KL Rahul (India) (Wicketkeeper)
- Glenn Phillips (New Zealand)
- Azmatullah Omarzai (Afghanistan)
- Mitchell Santner (New Zealand) (Captain)
- Mohammed Shami (India)
- Matt Henry (New Zealand)
- Varun Chakravarthy (India)
- Axar Patel (India) (12th Man)
This selection highlights the top performers of the Champions Trophy, acknowledging their remarkable contributions and match-winning performances throughout the tournament. Five Indians leading the lineup is a testament to the team’s dominant campaign and eventual triumph in the final.
