Best Test XI of 2024: Top performers in longest format of cricket

3. Kane Williamson (New Zealand)

Former New Zealand captain Kane Williamson made 1013 runs in nine matches at an average of 59.58 in 2024. He hit twin centuries against South Africa earlier in the year, followed by another one in Hamilton, and then scored 156 runs in the second innings against England in December. He didn’t feature in the series against India, which could have helped the cricketer add a few more runs to his tally.

4. Joe Root (England)

Joe Root has arguably been the best Test player in 2024. He has been extremely consistent, scoring 1556 runs in 17 matches at an average of 55.57. During this time, the 34-year-old hit six centuries and also finished as the leading run-scorer of the year. Currently, Root has 12972 runs to his name in the format and will be hoping to get closer to Sachin Tendulkar’s record of most runs in the format.

5. Temba Bavuma (Captain / South Africa)

Temba Bavuma hasn’t played many Test matches in 2024 but has been very effective whenever played. Notably, the 34-year-old played five matches and scored 503 runs at an average of 55.58 and also, under his captaincy, South Africa qualified for the finals of the World Test Championship. Meanwhile, his New Year resolution would be to stay fit and be available for more games in 2025.

6. Harry Brook (England)

Harry Brook was subjected to immense criticism when the youngster opted out of the India series earlier in the year. However, he proved his value in the remaining 12 matches that he played, in which, the 25-year-old has scored 1100 runs at an average of 55. He finished as the fourth-leading run-scorer of 2024. Notably, Brook also registered the highest individual score in the year as he smashed 317 runs against Pakistan in Multan.

7. Jamie Smith (Wicketkeeper / England)

Jonny Bairstow and Ben Foakes were England’s first and second choice keepers at the beginning of 2024. Things changed drastically after the Ben Stokes-led side suffered a humiliating 4-1 defeat to India. The Three Lions called for multiple changes and that’s when Jamie Smith busted into the scene. He played nine Tests in 2024, scoring 637 runs at an average of 40.45. 

8. Kamindu Mendis (Sri Lanka)

Sri Lanka international Kamindu Mendis has arguably been the breakout star of the year. He hit 1049 runs in nine matches at an average of 74.92, which is phenomenal, to say the least. The 26-year-old has done well in both home and away conditions as the cricketer was adjudged joint Player of the Series alongside Joe Root for incredible performances in the series against England.