The conclusion of an exciting ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup League 2 cycle highlights the remarkable balance in the ODI series, as every team boasts at least two players in the top 10 rankings for both batters and bowlers.
The confirmation of places in the ICC Cricket World Cup 2023 Qualifier came down to the wire, with the final ODI of the League 2 cycle sealing the fate of several teams. Over the course of 36 matches, played by each of the seven participating teams, numerous batters and bowlers showcased their skills and left a lasting impact.
While some of these standout performers will now set their sights on the Cricket World Cup 2023 Qualifier Playoff, having missed out on direct qualification, it’s worth acknowledging the achievements of top run-scorer Gerhard Erasmus.
The consistent Namibian right-hander amassed an impressive 1298 runs during the League 2 cycle. Erasmus notched over 50 runs on 12 occasions in 33 innings, even converting one of those into a memorable century, scoring an unbeaten 121* against Oman.
Erasmus was not the only prolific batsman during the League 2 cycle. Assad Vala, representing Papua New Guinea, fell just eight runs short of Erasmus’ total, amassing 1290 runs while consistently carrying the hopes of his team. For the USA, the formidable pair of Monank Patel (1219) and Aaron Jones (1184) delivered significant contributions at the crucial positions of three and four. Jatinder Singh of Oman displayed his prowess with the bat, accumulating 1098 runs and hitting three centuries, a joint record for the series. The UAE’s rising star, Vriitya Aravind, aged 20, is a name to watch, having scored 1047 runs and frequently making strong starts, including two centuries, with a highest score of 115* against Namibia.
In the bowling department, left-arm pacer Bilal Khan played an integral role in Oman securing their place in the Cricket World Cup Qualifier. Khan was the leading wicket-taker in the League 2 cycle, claiming a remarkable 76 wickets. Nepal’s spinner Sandeep Lamichhane (72) followed closely on the list, showcasing his spin wizardry. Saurabh Netravalkar, a left-arm quick from the USA, impressed with 58 wickets.
Scotland, who finished at the top of the League 2 standings, owed much to emerging left-arm spinner Mark Watt (54), who emerged as their most potent bowler. Namibia also benefited from a left-arm speedster in Ruben Trumpelmann, who secured 51 wickets during the cycle.
In short, the conclusion of the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup League 2 cycle highlights the competitive spirit and talent present across all participating teams. While some top performers will proceed to the Qualifier Playoff, others have left a lasting impact on the series with their impressive performances, both with the bat and ball.
