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As we bid adieu to 2023, cricket enthusiasts were treated to a year filled with captivating matches across the globe. From the World Cup to the World Test Championship final, memorable contests unfolded on the field. However, amidst on-field exploits and off-field controversies, Test and One-Day International (ODI) cricket took center stage, overshadowing T20 encounters.
The 'Fab-4,' comprising Virat Kohli, Kane Williamson, Joe Root, and Steve Smith, showcased stellar performances in Test cricket throughout 2023. Together, they amassed a staggering 3082 runs and notched up 11 centuries. In the ODIs, the quartet collectively scored 2551 runs this year, with Virat Kohli contributing to over 50% of this total.
Fab-4's Performance in Test Cricket
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Joe Root's Resurgence:
England's Joe Root had a standout year in Test cricket, delivering exceptional performances in series against teams like Australia and New Zealand. Root played 14 Test matches, boasting an impressive average of 65.58 and accumulating 787 runs. His innings included two centuries and five half-centuries, with an unbeaten 153 being his highest score.
Steve Smith's Consistency:
Steve Smith, despite playing 24 Test matches, maintained a solid average of 42.23, amassing 929 runs. His innings featured three centuries and three half-centuries, with a top score of 121.
Kane Williamson's Class:
Kane Williamson, although plagued by injuries for a significant part of the year, displayed his class in the 13 Test matches he played. With an average of 57.92, he scored 695 runs, including four centuries. His highest score was an impressive 215.
Virat Kohli's Comeback:
Virat Kohli, after a lean patch in Test cricket, made a stellar comeback in 2023. Playing 12 Test matches, he accumulated 671 runs at an average of 55.92, featuring two centuries and two half-centuries. His highest score was 186.
Fab-4's Performance in ODIs
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Virat Kohli's Dominance:
The year started with a focus on ODIs for Team India, and Virat Kohli, in particular, left an indelible mark. In 27 ODIs, Kohli showcased an outstanding average of 72.47, scoring 1377 runs. His innings included six centuries and eight half-centuries.
Kane Williamson's Contribution:
Despite limited appearances due to injury, Kane Williamson played seven ODIs, maintaining an average of 70 and scoring 420 runs. He registered five half-centuries in these matches.
Steve Smith's Impact:
Steve Smith, in 16 ODIs, accumulated 439 runs at an average of 31.35, including three half-centuries. His highest score was 76.
Joe Root's Struggle:
Joe Root had a challenging time in ODIs, playing 13 matches and averaging 24.23, scoring 315 runs with three half-centuries.
Limited Involvement in T20s
The 'Fab-4' had limited participation in T20 internationals this year. While Steve Smith played two matches, scoring 71 runs with a strike rate of 124.56, Virat Kohli, Joe Root, and Kane Williamson did not feature in any T20 international games throughout 2023.
In summary, 2023 showcased the resilience, class, and dominance of the 'Fab-4' in the longer formats of the game, making it a year to remember for cricket fans worldwide.
