The year 2024 was an incredible year for cricket enthusiasts, brimming with intense matches, stunning performances, and unforgettable moments. Let's delve into the top 10 cricket matches of 2024 that had fans on the edge of their seats and became instant classics.
1. India vs. Pakistan - ICC World Cup Semi-Final
Any India vs. Pakistan clash is bound to be thrilling, but the ICC World Cup Semi-Final added even more electricity to the rivalry. With both teams demonstrating outstanding skill and determination, it was India's captain, Virat Kohli, whose century led the team to a nail-biting victory in the final over, propelling India to the final.
2. Australia vs. England - Ashes 3rd Test at Lord's
The 3rd Test of the Ashes series at Lord's was a cricketing epic. England, chasing a daunting target of 450, showcased incredible resilience. Ben Stokes once again played a heroic innings, but this time, it was Australia’s Pat Cummins who delivered a thrilling final spell, securing a narrow 15-run victory for the Aussies.
3. New Zealand vs. South Africa - T20 World Cup Final
The T20 World Cup final between New Zealand and South Africa was a high-octane contest that went down to the wire. Chasing a challenging 195, South Africa’s Quinton de Kock played a blistering 90-run knock. However, Trent Boult's stellar final over left South Africa short by 5 runs, handing New Zealand their first T20 World Cup win.
4. West Indies vs. Sri Lanka - 2nd ODI in Antigua
The 2nd ODI between West Indies and Sri Lanka in Antigua witnessed one of the most remarkable turnarounds. Chasing 275, West Indies were struggling at 120-7 when Nicholas Pooran and the lower order mounted a sensational comeback, with Pooran’s unbeaten 85 guiding them to an improbable victory.
5. Bangladesh vs. Zimbabwe - Test Match in Dhaka
Bangladesh hosted Zimbabwe in Dhaka in a Test match that was testimony to the flair and fighting spirit of both sides. Zimbabwe batted first and posted a challenging 450, courtesy of a brilliant double century by Sean Williams. Bangladesh, however, responded with a record fourth-innings chase, led by Tamim Iqbal’s indomitable 160, claiming a historic win.
6. India vs. Australia - 4th Test in Brisbane
The 4th Test in Brisbane was part of one of the most exciting Test series ever. India, needing to draw or win to retain the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, chased down 328 with three wickets to spare, thanks to young Rishabh Pant's fearless 89*. This victory not only sealed the series for India but also ended Australia's unbeaten streak at the Gabba.
7. England vs. Pakistan - 5th T20I at Old Trafford
The 5th T20I at Old Trafford was a run-fest that saw both teams showcasing their power-hitting prowess. Pakistan posted a mammoth 225, courtesy of Babar Azam’s scintillating 105. England responded with a record chase, with Jos Buttler’s aggressive century seeing them home with just a ball to spare.
8. Afghanistan vs. Ireland - 3rd ODI in Dublin
Afghanistan and Ireland played an enthralling ODI series, and the 3rd match was the pinnacle. Chasing 310, Afghanistan’s Rahmat Shah displayed nerves of steel, hitting a six off the final ball to seal the victory for his team, highlighting Afghanistan's rapid rise in international cricket.
9. South Africa vs. Australia - ODI in Cape Town
A high-scoring ODI in Cape Town saw South Africa achieving a remarkable feat against Australia. Set a gigantic target of 375, South Africa’s Janneman Malan and Rassie van der Dussen traded explosive innings. The match concluded dramatically with Kagiso Rabada hitting the winning runs in the final over.
10. Pakistan vs. New Zealand - Test Match in Karachi
Pakistan faced New Zealand in Karachi in a Test match that encapsulated the essence of five-day cricket. Fawad Alam’s gritty century and Shaheen Afridi's five-wicket haul were the highlights, but it was the thrilling final day's play, with both teams in contention, that ended in a dramatic draw, leaving spectators enthralled.
The cricketing year of 2024 will be remembered for its extraordinary matches, individual brilliance, and team efforts. These ten games exemplify why cricket is revered as a sport of glorious uncertainties and breathtaking moments. As fans reflect on these spectacular contests, they eagerly anticipate what thrilling cricket awaits in the years to come.