PkRevenue.com – Australia cricket legend Ricky Ponting has shared his Dream XI for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup, featuring a blend of international superstars known for their flair, aggression, dynamic batting, versatile spin options, and incisive pace attack.
Openers
Virat Kohli
Ponting picks India’s Virat Kohli to open the batting, lauding his consistent run-scoring and impressive strike rate. Kohli, currently the leading run-scorer in this IPL edition (708 runs at a strike rate of 155.6), was also the highest run-getter in the last T20 World Cup. Ponting emphasizes Kohli’s experience and big-match temperament as key reasons for his selection.
Travis Head
Joining Kohli at the top is Australia’s Travis Head, noted for his recent form in the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2023 and his impactful performances for Sunrisers Hyderabad in the IPL. Despite limited T20I experience, Head’s clean striking and hunger for runs secure his place in Ponting’s XI.
Middle Order
Suryakumar Yadav
India’s Suryakumar Yadav, the top-ranked T20I batter, slots in at number three. Though his recent IPL season was inconsistent, Ponting values Yadav’s 360-degree shot-making ability and considers him a complete T20 player.
Glenn Maxwell
Australia’s Glenn Maxwell, despite a challenging IPL season, is chosen for his all-round capabilities. Ponting recalls Maxwell’s heroics in the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup, highlighting his match-winning potential and useful off-spin.
Heinrich Klaasen (wk)
South Africa’s Heinrich Klaasen, also the wicketkeeper, is selected at number five. Ponting praises Klaasen’s exceptional skill against spin bowling, deeming him one of the best hitters of spin in the world.
David Miller
David Miller, another South African, rounds off the middle order. Known for his finishing abilities, Miller’s powerful left-handed batting and consistent performance in T20I cricket make him an ideal fit for Ponting’s XI.
All-rounders and Spinners
Ravindra Jadeja
India’s Ravindra Jadeja is chosen for his left-arm spin, batting prowess, and exceptional fielding. Ponting values Jadeja’s ability to get crucial match-ups right, making him a significant asset.
Rashid Khan
Afghanistan’s Rashid Khan is selected for his outstanding T20 bowling record and his handy contributions with the bat. Ponting acknowledges Rashid as a game-changer with his leg-spin and energetic fielding.
Fast Bowlers
Pat Cummins
Australian all-rounder Pat Cummins is included for his improved T20 bowling skills. Ponting notes Cummins’ ability to bowl at various stages of the game and his valuable contributions with the bat.
Shaheen Afridi
Pakistan’s Shaheen Afridi, known for his new-ball prowess, is chosen for his wicket-taking abilities and effective death bowling. Ponting praises Afridi’s consistency and impact in recent T20 World Cups.
Jasprit Bumrah
India’s Jasprit Bumrah completes the XI, with Ponting calling him a “congregator” capable of delivering at any game stage. Bumrah’s exceptional death bowling and his recent IPL performance underline his importance in Ponting’s Dream XI.
