ICC Announces Nominees for Men’s Emerging Cricketer of the Year 2024; No Indian Players Included

The International Cricket Council (ICC) has revealed the four nominees for the Men’s Emerging Cricketer of the Year 2024 award. These cricketers have displayed remarkable performances across all formats throughout the year. The nominees include Sri Lanka’s Kamindu Mendis, Pakistan’s Saim Ayub, England’s Gus Atkinson, and West Indies’ Shamar Joseph. Here’s a look at their achievements:

Saim Ayub’s Spectacular Year in ODIs

Pakistan’s opener Saim Ayub stood out in 2024 with 515 runs in nine ODIs at an average of 64.37. He played a vital role in Pakistan’s series wins in Australia, South Africa, and Zimbabwe. Ayub notched two centuries in South Africa and was named Player of the Series in Pakistan’s 3-0 sweep.

In a historic feat, Ayub contributed to Pakistan’s first ODI series win in Australia in 22 years. His performance against South Africa in Paarl, scoring 109 runs off 119 balls, was a standout. Additionally, Ayub showcased his versatility by picking up five wickets at an economy of 4.63.

Kamindu Mendis Matches Don Bradman’s Test Record

Sri Lanka’s Kamindu Mendis had a stellar year, amassing 1451 runs in 32 matches at an average of 50.03. His Test performances were particularly impressive, with 1049 runs in nine matches at an average of 74.92, including five centuries.

Mendis became the third-fastest player to reach 1000 Test runs, equaling Sir Don Bradman’s record of 13 innings. He played key roles in Sri Lanka’s victories, including scoring an unbeaten 182 in a 2-0 series win over New Zealand and contributing to the team’s first Test win in England in a decade.

Shamar Joseph Shines in Test Cricket

West Indies’ Shamar Joseph made a remarkable Test debut in 2024. He picked up 13 wickets, including two five-wicket hauls, during the team’s historic Test series win in Australia—their first since 1997. Joseph’s standout performance at the Gabba included match-winning figures of 7/68 under pressure.

At home, he continued his dominance, taking 12 wickets in series against Bangladesh and South Africa. His ability to deliver under pressure earned him the Player of the Series award in Australia.

Gus Atkinson’s Stunning Debut Year

England’s Gus Atkinson emerged as a bowling powerhouse in 2024, taking 52 wickets in 11 Tests at an average of 22.15. His Test debut at Lord’s against West Indies was extraordinary, with match figures of 12/106, including two five-wicket hauls.

Atkinson contributed significantly to England’s series win in New Zealand and also scored his maiden Test century against Sri Lanka. His debut bowling figures rank as the fourth-best for a debutant in Test history.

Conclusion

These young stars have set new benchmarks in international cricket and are strong contenders for the ICC Men’s Emerging Cricketer of the Year 2024. The award will celebrate their extraordinary contributions to their teams’ successes.