The Pakistan Super League (PSL) recently concluded with thrilling performances from potential T20 World Cup contenders. As the excitement of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024 builds, let’s spotlight some of the PSL standouts who could make a major impact for their national teams in the Caribbean Islands and the USA this June.

Babar Azam and Pakistan’s Top-Order Dominance

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Babar Azam, the cornerstone of Pakistan’s batting lineup, ruled the PSL scoring charts with 569 runs in 11 matches. Notably, he maintained a blistering strike rate of 142.6 while opening the innings. His recent adaptable success could spark debate about returning him to the top order in T20 Internationals.

Mohammad Rizwan, another dependable force for Pakistan, also shined with over 400 runs and four half-centuries this PSL season.

Most runs at 2024 Pakistan Super League

Rising Stars and All-Round Threats

Saim Ayub, a rising T20I star for Pakistan, demonstrated his power by smashing the most tournament sixes (21), along with 345 runs at a strike rate of 157.53. His impressive off-spin with deceptive variations added eight wickets to his tally.

Iftikhar Ahmed was a force for the Multan Sultans, boasting the best strike rate (193.28) for any player with over five innings in the PSL this year. Pakistan’s Test captain Shadab Khan proved his all-around prowess too, scoring 300+ runs at a strike rate of 146.11 and claiming a tournament-leading 14 wickets. His performance earned him the Player of the Tournament title.

Best batting strike rates at Pakistan Super League (minimum 100 runs)

Spin Supremacy and Pace Potential

Leg-spinner Usama Mir, the season’s top wicket-taker (24 wickets), could be a strong T20 World Cup selection despite his less-than-ideal performance at last year’s Cricket World Cup. His PSL success, on pitches expected to favor spin, may bolster his case.

Imad Wasim, the retired left-arm bowler, could come out of retirement for the T20 World Cup if he chooses to. A string of impactful PSL performances, including Player of the Match wins, adds to his intrigue.

Pakistan’s pace lineup also looks potent, with Naseem Shah and Shaheen Afridi demonstrating their Powerplay threat throughout the PSL. Hasan Ali and Abbas Afridi were also consistent wicket-takers.

Most wickets at 2024 Pakistan Super League

Other Contenders and International Stars

Islamabad United’s Imad Wasim turned in impressive bowling throughout the tournament, including a five-wicket haul in the final and a sub-seven economy rate. Haider Ali also made key contributions in their title run. Azam Khan continues to impress as a hard-hitting wicketkeeper-batter.

Among international stars, South Africa’s Rassie van der Dussen made a strong selection case with 364 runs, averaging 72.8 with a strike rate of 154.89. Reeza Hendricks also tallied 304 runs with three half-centuries. West Indies’ Akeal Hosein and England’s Luke Wood made their mark with the ball as well.

The PSL’s Impact on T20 World Cup Preparation

The Pakistan Super League has ignited excitement as potential T20 World Cup stars have emerged. With the competition heating up, fans eagerly await the finalized teams and anticipate thrilling performances on the international stage.