All-Time ODI XI: The men who matter

#8 Wasim Akram (Vice-Captain) (Pakistan)

Akram regularly outsmarted accomplished batsmen with incredible finesse

Unarguably, Wasim Akram was the most complete bowler to grace the 50-over format. When he was in his prime, it appeared as if the ‘Sultan of Swing’ could make the new-ball recite poetry. If the ball threatened to lose its shape during the latter stages, he utilised reverse-swing to wreak havoc on unsuspecting batsmen. The left-armer’s languid run-up and elegant action took spectators on a wondrous ride.

Extra Cover: Wasim Akram - Poetry in motion

Akram became the first bowler to achieve two ODI hat-tricks when he dismantled the lower orders of West Indies and Australia in Sharjah during the 1989/90 season. Ranging from WACA‘s belter to the dusty subcontinental pitches, the Pakistani pacer created an indelible impact wherever he went.

Statistics: 502 wickets from 356 matches at an average of 23.52 and economy-rate of 3.89 with 6 five-wicket hauls

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#9 Brett Lee (Australia)

Lee’s extra pace helped him inflict irreversible damage on batting lineups

Capable of generating scorching pace, Brett Lee often engulfed opposition teams in uninhibited fear and consequently left a trail of destruction in his wake. Being a genuine strike bowler, the Australian tore through batting lineups once he got into the groove.

Although his extra pace could result in runs during certain occasions, he had the ability to dismiss well-set batsmen as well as separate seemingly immovable partnerships.

Extra Cover: Brett Lee - When the Blonde Bombshell left the field

Lee’s dexterity was on display during the 2006 VB series on home soil. In the 4^th match against South Africa at Docklands Stadium in Melbourne, he single-handedly helped his country defend a below-par total by producing figures of 5/22. Such virtuoso spells came from the right-armer on a regular basis.

Statistics: 380 wickets from 221 matches at an average of 23.36 and economy-rate of 4.76 with 9 five-wicket hauls