Best ODI XI of the year 2021

From the perspective of a cricket fan, 2021 was indeed a great year. Owing to several close encounters, the hysteria among the viewers was well and truly justified. However, like the previous year, even 2021 had lesser ODI games as compared to the general norm.

Besides, as 2021 saw the inaugural World Test Championship final, as well as the 2021 T20 WC, the focus was mainly on the other two formats. Nevertheless, several ODI games were an absolute treat to watch. 

Various individuals were at their best and were consistent throughout the year. So much so that they went on to further enhance their reputation. However, which are those players who could make it into the ODI playing XI of the year? Who were the best ODI players of 2021? 

Here is the ODI XI of 2021:

1) Shikhar Dhawan

It is safe to say that Shikhar Dhawan is one of the greatest ODI players of this generation. The opener has made it a habit to consistently score runs in this format. Despite not having age on his side, 2021 saw him being in sublime form.

The Indian batter was superb during the ODI series against England at home. He scored two half-centuries in the three-match series, with a best of 98. The 36-year-old was then asked to lead the Indian team during their tour to Sri Lanka, and he didn’t disappoint over there either.

He scored the most number of runs for his side in that ODI series as well. In the six one-dayers in which the Delhi batter played in 2021, he scored 297 runs at an average of 59.40. Despite not scoring a century, his performances for the men in blue this year were impactful.