The International Cricket Council (ICC) has announced the nominees for the ICC Men’s T20I Cricketer of the Year award. The shortlist features standout performers who have left a lasting impact in the shortest format of the game. Among the nominees are India’s Arshdeep Singh, Zimbabwe’s Sikandar Raza, Pakistan’s Babar Azam, and Australia’s Travis Head.
Arshdeep Singh (India)
Matches: 18
Wickets: 36
Average: 13.5
Best Bowling Figures: 4/9
The Year That Was
With India’s ace bowler Jasprit Bumrah focusing on Test and ODI assignments, Arshdeep Singh stepped up as the team’s primary pacer in T20Is. The left-arm seamer showcased exceptional skills across different conditions, becoming the second-highest wicket-taker for India in Men’s T20Is with 36 scalps in just 18 matches.
Arshdeep’s performances were critical in India’s successes against top teams, including Sri Lanka, South Africa, and the West Indies. His ability to deliver under pressure and fill the void of a left-arm pacer in the Indian lineup earned him accolades throughout the year.
Memorable Performance
In the T20 World Cup final, Arshdeep’s contributions were pivotal to India’s victory. Defending 177, he removed key batters Aiden Markram and Quinton de Kock early on. His exceptional 19th over, conceding just four runs, increased the pressure on David Miller, leading to a crucial wicket soon after. His performance ensured India’s triumph in their second T20 World Cup title.
Sikandar Raza (Zimbabwe)
Matches: 24
Runs: 573
Average: 28.65
Highest Score: 133*
Wickets: 24
Bowling Average: 22.25
Best Bowling Figures: 5/18
The Year That Was
Sikandar Raza, a seasoned all-rounder, once again proved his worth for Zimbabwe. Leading from the front as captain, Raza was instrumental in their unbeaten run in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup sub-regional Africa Qualifier Group B, scoring 199 runs and taking 10 wickets.
Under his leadership, Zimbabwe registered impressive wins over cricketing giants like Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, India, Pakistan, and Afghanistan. Despite being 39, Raza continues to shine as a beacon of inspiration for his team.
Memorable Performance
Raza’s standout moment came against India on a challenging pitch. He scored a watchful 17 and followed it up with a brilliant bowling spell, taking 3/25. His wickets included India’s stand-in captain Shubman Gill, Ravi Bishnoi, and Mukesh Kumar, securing a thrilling 13-run victory for Zimbabwe.
Babar Azam (Pakistan)
Matches: 24
Runs: 738
Average: 33.54
Highest Score: 75*
The Year That Was
Pakistan’s prolific batter and former captain, Babar Azam, had another impactful year in T20Is. With 738 runs at an improved strike rate of 133.21, Babar remained the backbone of Pakistan’s batting lineup. His six half-centuries highlighted his consistency and ability to anchor innings.
At just 30, Babar is on the verge of becoming the highest run-scorer in T20I history, sitting just eight runs shy of surpassing India’s Rohit Sharma.
Memorable Performance
During Pakistan’s tour of Ireland, Babar’s captaincy and batting brilliance stood out. Chasing 179 in a must-win game, he smashed an unbeaten 75 off 42 balls, leading his team to a dominant win in just 17 overs. His innings featured six fours and five sixes, demonstrating his capability to handle pressure and deliver when it mattered most.
Travis Head (Australia)
Matches: 15
Runs: 539
Average: 38.5
Highest Score: 80
The Year That Was
Travis Head emerged as a key player for Australia in T20Is, making the most of his opportunities in 2024. His 539 runs at a blistering strike rate of 178.47 made him the second-highest run-scorer for Australia in a calendar year. Head’s contributions were particularly valuable during the Indian Premier League and the T20 World Cup.
His fearless approach as an opener gave Australia strong starts, and his performances often set the tone for the team’s success. He ended the T20 World Cup as the third-highest run-getter with 255 runs.
Memorable Performance
Head’s defining knock came against England in Southampton. Opening the innings, he smashed 59 off just 23 balls, including 12 boundaries and four sixes, to propel Australia to a formidable total of 179. This explosive inning laid the foundation for a 28-run victory over their Ashes rivals.
The ICC Men’s T20I Cricketer of the Year award will recognize one of these exceptional players for their outstanding contributions to the format in 2024. Who will take home the coveted honor? Stay tuned!
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