Related Articles
The ICC has unveiled the nominees for the ICC Men’s ODI Cricketer of the Year 2024, spotlighting four exceptional talents from Sri Lanka, Afghanistan, and the West Indies. Surprisingly, no Indian cricketers have made the shortlist this year despite a strong calendar of ODI cricket.
The nominees are Wanindu Hasaranga and Kusal Mendis from Sri Lanka, Azmatullah Omarzai from Afghanistan, and Sherfane Rutherford from the West Indies. These players have delivered standout performances throughout the year, leaving a significant impact on ODI cricket in 2024.
Table of content
Nominees for ICC Men’s ODI Cricketer of the Year 2024
1. Wanindu Hasaranga (Sri Lanka)
- Wickets: 26
- Economy Rate: 5.36
- Average: 15.61
- Best Performance: 7/19 vs Zimbabwe
Hasaranga dominated with the ball, dismantling top batting lineups and delivering consistent match-winning spells. His career-best figures of 7/19 against Zimbabwe in January set the tone for his incredible year. Hasaranga’s all-round contributions were instrumental in Sri Lanka’s success in ODI cricket in 2024.
2. Azmatullah Omarzai (Afghanistan)
- Runs: 417 @ 52.12 (SR 105.56)
- Wickets: 7 @ 20.47
- Best Performance: 149* vs Sri Lanka
Omarzai emerged as one of the most dynamic all-rounders in 2024, delivering stunning performances with both bat and ball. His unbeaten 149* against Sri Lanka and a match-winning 86* against South Africa were highlights of his breakout year. Omarzai’s ability to perform under pressure has elevated Afghanistan’s standing in world cricket.
3. Kusal Mendis (Sri Lanka)
- Runs: 742 @ 53.00 (SR 90.59)
- Best Performance: 143 vs New Zealand
Mendis showcased consistency and brilliance with the bat, striking half-centuries against all six opponents he faced in 2024. His career-best knock of 143 against New Zealand and his dual role as a wicketkeeper-batter were pivotal to Sri Lanka’s dominance in ODIs.
4. Sherfane Rutherford (West Indies)
- Runs: 425 @ 106.25 (SR 120.05)
- Best Performance: 113 vs Bangladesh
Known for his explosive power-hitting, Rutherford brought T20-like aggression to ODIs in 2024. His century against Bangladesh and consecutive fifties against Sri Lanka showcased his ability to deliver impactful performances, making him a standout for the West Indies in a challenging year.
Voting and Award Details
Fans will have 12 days to vote for their favorite player among the nominees. The winner will be crowned the ICC Men’s ODI Cricketer of the Year 2024, honoring their exceptional contributions to the format.
Notable Absence of Indian Players
While Indian players like Shubman Gill and Mohammed Siraj impressed in patches, none could match the consistent impact of the nominees. This marks a rare instance where no Indian cricketer is in contention for the prestigious award, sparking debates among fans about the criteria and performances considered for the shortlist.
Who do you think deserves the title of the ICC Men’s ODI Cricketer of the Year 2024? Share your thoughts!
