Introduction

In the golden era of cricket from the late 1980s to the turn of the millennium, the sport saw some of its most talented players take the field. From the Test cricket format to the One Day International (ODI) format, the game wasrich with innovation and brilliance. This article delves into my ideal World XI for both Test cricket and ODIs, focusing on the top players from 1990 onwards.

Post-1990 World Test XI

The Test cricket format, where skill and endurance reign supreme, demands a carefully crafted lineup. Here is my ideal World XI, comprising the cream of international Test cricket in the late 20th century.

Opening Batsmen

Virender Sehwag, IND: Known for his powerful batting and ability to build innings in tricky conditions. Sachin Tendulkar, IND: Astoundingly productive, Tendulkar is a perfect fit for any batting order and opened with presence and precision.

Middle Order

Quintessential all-rounder Jacques Kallis, RSA: A batsman, bowler, and fielder, Kallis adds value in multiple roles, enhancing the team's potential. Ricky Ponting, AUS: A Captain and batter extraordinaire, Ponting’s consistency and tactical brilliance make him a natural match for this lineup. Brian Lara, WI: A true artist with the bat, Lara’s ability to score big, coasting around the wicket and hitting boundaries makes him a key middle order player.

Wicket-Keeper/Batsmen

Kumar Sangakkara, SL: Sangakkara’s skill as a keeper and ability to bat in the top order make him a reliable presence behind the stumps.

Bowling

Wasim Akram, PAK: As a Left Handed Batsman and Leg-spinner, Akram provides a potent mix of pace and spin. Glenn McGrath, AUS: One of the greatest fast bowlers, McGrath’s ability to swing the ball both ways gives the team diverse attacking options. Shaun Pollock, RSA: Another all-rounder, Pollock is an asset as a wicket-keeper and off-spinner, providing valuable versatility to the side.

Final Bowler

Dale Steyn, RSA: A right-arm fast bowler, Steyn’s ability to take wickets and skew the result makes him a standout fast bowler. Muttiah Muralitharan, SL: A leg-spinner, Muralitharan’s ability to control the game with his spin and dot balls have made him one of the greatest bowlers of all time.

Post-1990 World ODI XI

ODI cricket, on the other hand, is more dynamic and fast-paced. The format requires quick scoring and the ability to switch gears quickly. Here is my optimal World XI for ODIs.

Batting Order

Sanath Jayasuriya, SL: A force to be reckoned with, Jayasuriya’s ability to score runs swiftly and intimidate bowlers makes him an ideal opener. Sachin Tendulkar, IND: Often referred to as the greatest batsman of all time, Tendulkar continues to inspire younger players with his unmatched technique and consistency. Virat Kohli, IND: Known for his explosive batting and tactical brilliance, Kohli’s ability to nail crucial runs in high-pressure situations is unmatched. AB de Villliers, RSA: An attacking nightmare, de Villiers’s ability to hit the ball both on the off and the on-side makes him an absolute terror for bowlers.

Wicket-keeper/Batsmen and Support

MS Dhoni, IND: As a right-hand batsman and wicket-keeper, Dhoni’s combination of strength and tactical acumen makes him a very reliable presence.

Bowling and Fielding

Wasim Akram, PAK: Akram’s accuracy and ability to swing the ball make him a formidable opponent in ODI cricket. Brett Lee, AUS: Known for his raw pace and clinical hitting, Lee’s ability to provide a strong debut entry to the attack is unmatched. Shaun Pollock, RSA: Pollock’s fielding and his trademark off-spin make him an asset for the team. Dale Steyn, RSA: A right-arm fast bowler, Steyn’s ability to take wickets and skew the result makes him a standout fast bowler. Lasith Malinga, SL: A right-arm fast bowler, Malinga provides a distinguishing mix of pace, bounce, and guile.

Conclusion

The post-1990 cricket era has been marked by exceptional talent, innovation, and skill in the(Test) and One Day (ODI) formats. The lineup presented here draws from a pool of some of the most accomplished players from this era, each bringing their unique strengths to the table.