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Former Australia opener Matthew Hayden has recently revealed his greatest ODI World Cup XI of all time. Hayden, renowned for his own contributions to Australia’s World Cup successes, has chosen a line-up that includes some of the most iconic figures in cricket history.
Hayden’s selection reflects his preference for players who have not only excelled individually but also contributed immensely to their teams’ World Cup triumphs over the years. His all-time XI boasts a blend of explosive batters, versatile all-rounders, and a formidable bowling attack, featuring legends from various eras of the sport. As fans dissect and debate his choices, Hayden’s XI stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of these cricketing greats and their indelible mark on the history of the World Cup.
Matthew Hayden’s greatest ODI World Cup XI of all time
Explosive opening pair
Adam Gilchrist (wk): The Australian wicketkeeper-batter was renowned for his explosive starts and acrobatic wicketkeeping. Gilchrist’s aggressive batting at the top of the order was a key component in Australia’s dominance in the early 2000s. He was part of Australia’s ODI World Cup winning teams in 1999, 2003 and 2007.
Virender Sehwag: The Indian opener’s fearless approach and ability to take on the bowlers from the first ball made him an ideal partner for Gilchrist. Sehwag’s quick scoring provided India with solid foundations in many matches. Sehwag was part of India’s 2011 World Cup winning side.
Rock solid middle order
Ricky Ponting: One of the most successful captains in cricket history, Ponting’s leadership and consistency with the bat were invaluable. His knack for performing in crucial matches cemented his place in the XI. Leading Australia in two World Cup wins in 2003 and 2007, Ponting was rightfully named as the captain.
Sachin Tendulkar: The ‘Master Blaster’ is the highest run-scorer in ODI history. Tendulkar’s remarkable performances across multiple World Cups made him a natural choice for any all-time XI. He missed out clinching the title by a close margin in 2003 but had his moment in 2011 when India won the World Cup after 28 years.
Brian Lara: The West Indian legend’s elegance and ability to dominate bowlers from around the world earn him a spot in the middle order. Lara’s flair and technique were instrumental in his many match-winning innings.
Dynamic all-rounder
Jacques Kallis: The South African all-rounder was considered one of the greatest cricketers of all time. Kallis’ proficiency with both bat and ball provides balance to Hayden’s XI, making him a crucial player in this line-up. Though, Kallis never won any World Cup but his contribution in ODIs is second to none.
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The high-class bowling attack
Wasim Akram: The ‘Sultan of Swing’ from Pakistan was renowned for his ability to swing the ball both ways. Akram’s lethal bowling was a nightmare for batters in World Cups. Being part of 1992 World Cup winning side, Akram attained the legendary status and he is a natural choice for any all-time XI irrespective of the formats.
Waqar Younis: Akram’s partner-in-crime, Waqar was widely Known for his devastating reverse swing. He formed a formidable bowling partnership with Akram and his pace and ability to bowl toe-crushing yorkers made him a vital member of the bowling attack.
Shane Warne: The Australian leg-spin maestro is widely regarded as one of the best bowlers in cricket history. Warne’s ability to turn the ball sharply and his knack for taking crucial wickets counts him in any best XI side.
Muttiah Muralitharan: The highest wicket-taker in ODI history, Muralitharan’s spin wizardry bamboozled batters around the world. The Sri Lankan off-spinner’s inclusion in Hayden’s XI adds depth and variety to the spin department.
Glenn McGrath: McGrath’s pinpoint accuracy and consistency made him one of the most successful fast bowlers in World Cup history. The Australian pacer’s ability to deliver under pressure is well-documented. McGrath, too, was part of Australia’s World Cup winning team in 1999, 2003 and 2007.
Notable absence: Virat Kohli
The absence of Virat Kohli, one of the modern greats, has indeed raised eyebrows among cricket fans. Kohli’s impressive World Cup record and his stature in world cricket made him a strong contender for many. However, Hayden’s selection reflects his preference for players who have had a significant impact over a longer period in World Cup history.
