The T20 World Cup 2024 has ended. India won by seven runs against South Africa in the final match at the Kensington Oval last Saturday, becoming the champions.

Afghanistan’s journey was unexpected as they reached the semifinals with historic wins over New Zealand and Australia.

Here are five players who surprised everyone during the tournament.

1. Fazalhaq Farooqi – Leading wicket-taker

Before the 2024 T20 World Cup, few fans expected

Shai Hope, a Caribbean opener known for his skills in one-day internationals, had the highest strike rate among batters who scored at least 100 runs in the tournament. He scored 107 runs in three innings at a very fast pace of 187.71.

In a crucial match against USA during the Super 8s, Hope played his best ever innings, scoring 82 runs from just 39 balls.

3. Sompal Kami, Nepal

Nepalese fast bowler Sompal Kami had the third-lowest run rate in the 2024 T20 World Cup, just after Trent Boult and Tim Southee. He kept his rate at 3.78 runs per over even against tough teams like South Africa and Bangladesh. In one match, he bowled a maiden over to South African batsman Reeza Hendricks, and in another game, he took 2 wickets for 10 runs in three overs against Bangladesh.

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It’s unusual to find leg-spin bowlers in Bangladesh’s team, but 21-year-old Rishad Hossain showed that they can make a big difference if they get to play. Hossain took 14 wickets in seven matches during the 2024 T20 World Cup, the most among players from teams that didn’t reach the semifinals. His three-wicket performances against Netherlands and Sri Lanka helped Bangladesh reach the Super 8s stage.

5. Monank Patel, USA

In the 2024 T20 World Cup, USA captain Monank Patel played just two matches. However, he made sure cricket fans won’t forget him. Leading USA in their first T20 World Cup, Patel led the team to victory in both games.

He impressed with a great fifty in a crucial match against Pakistan. Sadly, Patel couldn’t play more due to a shoulder injury. USA didn’t win any matches after his injury, highlighting his importance. Patel looks forward to a better performance in the 2026 T20 World Cup.

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