Unbeatable Test XI consisting of All-Rounders
There have been numerous Test-XI chosen by cricket players, journalists, and cricket pundits in recent times. All of them had the traditional method of team selection i.e. five batsmen, one all-rounder, one wicket-keeper and four bowlers. There were few variations to this combination, but the essence of team selection remained the same.
This team consists of 11 all-rounders who were a dominant force in their side when they played. Such a team would be a dream-team for any side for the sheer skill they would bring to the table in terms of bowling, batting, and wicket-keeping.
Let us look at the team composition.
Openers
#1 Tillakaratne Dilshan (wicket-keeper)
Tillakaratne Dilshan was a decent all-rounder who could also do wicket-keeping when required. He opened the innings for Sri Lanka and excelled with the bat. Dilshan played 87 Test matches and scored 5492 runs at an average of 40.98. He also took 39 wickets as an off-break bowler.
Dilshan was known for his timing and wristy strokeplay. Like Virender Sehwag, he was an attacking batsman who could plunder any bowling attack. As an off-break bowler, he bowled several variations like the floater and the faster-one.
Dilshan had the knack of picking wickets when it mattered the most.
#2 Vinoo Mankad
Vinoo Mankad was the first all-rounder produced by India. He was known for his immense concentration and impeccable defense. He was a natural batsman who did not believe much in the technical aspects of the batting. Mankad was a slow left-arm orthodox bowler with ample variations.
He played 44 Test matches and scored 2109 runs at an average of 31.47. This comprised five centuries and six half-centuries. He also took 162 wickets at an average of 32.32.
The term "Mankaded" in cricket is derived from the last name of Vinoo Mankad.