These were the 5 best Test match debutants in 2024

Jonhenry Wilson 28 Dec 2024

Sam Konstas bats for Australia in Test cricket

Sam Konstas impressed on Test debut for Australia against India at the Melbourne Cricket Ground.

Several talented cricketers made their debut at Test level in 2024.

But some stood out more than others.

Here, we recall the best Test debutants of the year.

1. Sam Konstas (Australia)

Thrust to the top of the Australia order for the 2024 Border-Gavaskar Series, Konstas grabbed his opportunity with both hands. He was comfortable scooping and reverse-scooping Mohammad Siraj and Jasprit Bumrah.

He successfully weathered a confrontation with Virat Kohli. Konstas hit 60 on Test debut at the Melbourne Cricket Ground. There is probably a lot more to come from him. Watch this space.

2. Corbin Bosch (South Africa)

Bosch followed in his father Tertius’ footsteps by playing Test cricket for South Africa. He debuted during December’s series against Pakistan, at his homeground – SuperSport Park.

Bosch took four wickets and then hit an enterprising 81 not out. The Proteas selectors are going to have a selection conundrum when Wiaan Mulder returns from injury.

Also read: The 25 bowlers who took a wicket with their first ball in Test cricket

3. Tom Hartley (England)

There are several examples of spinners succeeding on Test debut on the sub-continent. Remember Jason Krejza, for example. This time, it was Hartley’s chance to impress in India.

There was plenty of turn on offer for Hartley. He took two wickets in the first innings and seven in the second as England secured an historic 28-run victory over the Indians in Hyderabad. Hartley has only play four more Tests since.

4. Kamran Ghulam (Pakistan)

A lot of expectation sat on the shoulders of Gulam when he debuted in Test cricket against England in Multan. He duly delivered, striking a century in the middle order.

Granted, he was not facing James Anderson and Stuart Broad at the time, but Ghulam was marvelous against Brydon Carse, Matthew Potts, Jack Leach and others.

5. Gus Atkinson (England)

In arguably the best Test debut in 2024, Atkinson was near sensational at Lord’s against the West Indies. His big frame enjoyed big bounce and extra carry in London as he romped to the Player of the Match award.

Atkinson took seven wickets in the first innings and five more in the second for 12 in total – a remarkable feat. He has since gone on to take 40 more wickets in 10 more Tests.

He is also now the proud owner of a Test match century at – where, you guessed it – Lord’s. A terrific year for the burgeoning all-rounder, indeed.