Best T20I XI of the decade

The shorter format’s inception took place in the last decade, but it truly came to life after 2010. The recurring success of IPL and other T20 leagues like Big Bash League, BPL and CPL played its part in making this format the new blockbuster, and as it turned out, it ended up having a significant impact on the other formats too.

A six over covers is no longer unbelievable, a scoop or even a reverse-scoop against a fast bowler isn’t outrageous, shimmying down the track to a bowler whose average speed is 140 kph – These facets are now as common as Virat Kohli scoring hundred these days.

The T20I of this decade comprises three frontline spinners as a tribute to all the phenomenal spinners who defeated the odds. It was believed that the art of leg-spin would die with this format, but as it turned out, they ended up having so many match-turning moments.

Here’s the best T20I XI of this decade:

1. Rohit Sharma

One of the most flamboyant and effortless strikers of the cricket ball, Rohit Sharma escalated his level from a great talent, to a fine servant of Indian cricket and now, one could definitely consider him an all-time great in the limited-overs.

Although he made his debut in the previous decade and made a mark in the World T20 2007, his true stint in Indian cricket began when he started opening for the side. Ever since he has donned the opener’s hat, he has been one of the best players in the world against the white ball.

Rohit piled up 2306 runs in 88 games this decade in the international T20s. His average lurks just above the 30-mark and another important stat is that he registered 4 centuries, becoming the only player in T20I history to do so. Also, no cricketer hit more sixes in this decade than the Indian vice-captain.