No Rohit Sharma as Hashim Amla reveals his all-time ODI XI; 3 Indians make the cut

Former South Africa great Hashim Amla recently revealed his all-time One Day International (ODI) XI on a YouTube podcast, sparking immediate discussion among cricket fans, not least for a surprising omission. Amla’s selection includes an array of the game’s greatest legends, including three Indian icons, all chosen for their monumental contributions to the 50-over format. The team is built on a foundation of legendary batting prowess, formidable all-round talent and a well-balanced bowling attack comprising two of the greatest spinners and two iconic fast bowlers to have played the game.

Hashim Amla’s all-time ODI XI and notable Indian inclusions

Amla’s selection for his all-time ODI dream team is heavily comprised of the top scorers and greatest match-winners of the past few decades, with three Indian greats securing their place. The opening pair is dominated by the all-time greats: the Indian “Master Blaster” Sachin Tendulkar and former Australian wicketkeeper Adam Gilchrist. At the crucial third position, Amla picked the Indian batting maestro Virat Kohliwho remains the only active international cricketer in the entire XI and holds the all-time record for most ODI centuries (51).

The middle order is anchored by the genius of the former West Indies captain Brian Lara and long-time South African teammate of Amla AB de Villierswhich is listed at number five. The lower middle order is bolstered by two more legends: the greatest all-rounder in football history, the South African Jacques Kallis at number six, followed by the legendary finisher and former captain of the Indian team, MS Dhoniplacing himself at number seven as the designated wicketkeeper. This selection highlights the dominant impact Indian cricket has had on the ODI format over generations, with a player from the 90s, 2000s and the modern era all part of this very exclusive XI.

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Rohit Sharma’s snobbery and bowling attack

The most notable point of contention and biggest surprise in Amla’s all-time ODI XI selection is the exclusion of the modern Indian opener. Rohit Sharmadespite his spectacular and record-breaking career in the format. Rohit is the only batter in the history of ODI cricket to have scored three double centuries, including the all-time highest individual score of 264, which led to minor backlash and disappointment from fans after the announcement.

However, Amla’s decision to name Tendulkar and Gilchrist as openers meant that there was no place available at the top of the order for the Indian captain. Amla’s bowling attack is a masterclass in balance, featuring two of the most successful spinners in cricket history: Sri Lanka’s spin wizard. Muttiah Muralitharan and the charismatic Australian leg-spinner Shane Warné.

This spin duo is complemented by two iconic fast bowlers who embody the aggression and skill of their era: Pakistan’s legendary left-arm swing bowler. Wasim Akram and Amla’s formidable South African teammate Dale Steynwhich ends the rapid attack. The selection of these four bowlers gives the XI a perfect blend of high wicket-taking ability, control in the middle overs, deadly pace and swing with the new and old ball.

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