ODI cricket took a backseat in 2024 following an action-packed 2023, highlighted by India hosting the ICC Cricket World Cup.
The early months of 2024 were dominated by T20 cricket, as teams focused on fine-tuning their preparations for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024. Later in the year, Test cricket took center stage, with all Test-playing nations vying for a spot in the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) 2023-25 final.
5. Nosthush Kenjige (USA) – 20 wickets
USA spinner Nosthush Kenjige impressed in 2024 with 20 wickets in 12 matches at an average of 21.90. Known for his clever variations, his standout performance was 4/52 against Nepal in Dallas, a spell that restricted the visitors to 286 runs. The USA chased down the target to secure a three-wicket victory.
4. Allah Ghazanfar (AFG) – 21 wickets
Afghanistan’s 18-year-old off-spinner Allah Ghazanfar made waves in 2024 with 21 wickets. His best figures, an outstanding 6/26, came against Bangladesh in Sharjah, leading Afghanistan to a commanding 92-run win. Ghazanfar played a vital role in Afghanistan’s series triumphs over South Africa, Bangladesh, and Zimbabwe.
3. Aryan Dutt (NED) – 21 wickets
Dutch spinner Aryan Dutt continued his rise in international cricket, taking 21 wickets in 12 matches at an impressive average of 18.71. His top performance, 6/34, came against Namibia in Kirtipur, where he helped bowl the opposition out for just 124 runs, showcasing his match-winning capabilities.
2. Dilon Heyliger (CAN) – 26 wickets
Canada’s Dilon Heyliger was one of the standout pacers of 2024, ending the year with 26 wickets in 14 matches at an average of 22. His best spell of 5/31 came against Nepal at King City, where he also contributed with the bat, scoring 30 runs. His all-round efforts earned him the Player of the Match award.
1. Wanindu Hasaranga (SL) – 26 wickets
Sri Lankan spinner Wanindu Hasaranga topped the charts in 2024, taking 26 wickets in just 10 matches at a stellar average of 15.61. His most iconic performance came against Bangladesh in Chattogram, where he recorded extraordinary figures of 7/19, steering Sri Lanka to a thrilling three-wicket victory.