NEW DELHI: Cricket analyst and former India cricketer Aakash Chopra has stirred debate by leaving out India’s pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah and Pakistan’s Shaheen Shah Afridi from his list of the Top 5 T20I pacers of 2024.
The decision, based on criteria of playing at least 10 T20Is in the year and delivering consistent performances against quality opposition, has drawn attention, given the reputation of the two fast-bowling superstars.
Explaining his reasoning in a YouTube video, Chopra acknowledged the brilliance of Bumrah and Shaheen but emphasized his selection criteria. The main reason Bumrah was not selected was because he played only eight T20Is in 2024. As for Shaheen Afridi, the Pakistan pacer didn’t make the cut despite taking 36 wickets because he didn’t fare well against the top teams.
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Chopra unveiled his Top 5, placing Haris Rauf of Pakistan at No. 5. “He took three wickets against India in the World Cup, seven against New Zealand, and five against Australia in just two games. He has 27 wickets in 17 matches at an average of 19 and an economy of nine,” Chopra noted on his YouTube channel.
At No. 4, Chopra picked Lockie Ferguson from New Zealand, highlighting his remarkable efficiency. “He has taken 20 wickets in 10 matches with an economy of just 4.88 and an average of 9.25. His standout spell was four wickets for 12 runs against Australia.”
Sri Lanka’s rising star Matheesha Pathirana earned the third spot. “He has grown in stature, taking 28 wickets in 16 matches at an economy of 7.67 and an average of 13.25. His consistency has been exceptional,” Chopra observed.
In a surprising move, Abbas Afridi of Pakistan was ranked No. 2, edging out his more renowned compatriot Shaheen. “He has picked up 30 wickets in 18 matches at an economy of less than 8.5 and an average of 14.96. He has consistently performed against strong teams,” Chopra explained.
Topping the list was India’s left-arm seamer Arshdeep Singh, a choice Chopra enthusiastically justified. “He has taken 36 wickets in 18 matches at an economy of 7.49 and an average of 13.5. He delivers breakthroughs with the new ball and hasn’t gone wicketless since June 27. By any parameter, he’s been the best,” Chopra said.
