Iyer was the highest run-getter in 2022 in ODIs amongst the top 10 nations in the format, tallying an impressive 724 runs at a stunning average of 55.69 and a commendable strike rate of 90-plus. The 28-year-old registered his second career century against South Africa in October apart from six fifties, the latest of which came against Bangladesh in December. Iyer has been key for the team's success of late and has pretty much cemented a spot in the Men in Blue squad for the World Cup later in the year at home, as has the in-form, Mohammed Siraj. Enjoying a purple patch, the right arm quick scalped 24 victims in 15 innings while averaging 23.50 and perhaps equally importantly, an economy of 4.62. Siraj in 2022 emerged as a much-needed strike new-ball bowler for India, setting the stage for many crucial victories with his bowling in the powerplay.

A notable inclusion in the team was Sikandar Raza who did not let his country's minnow status keep him from making a mark on the global stage. The only player included in the lineup from a country ranking outside the top 10, the 36-year-old Zimbabwean all-rounder struck three centuries including a heroic 115 against India, thus averaging a healthy 49.61 while also scalping eight wickets in his 15 appearances.