Pakistan’s talented opening batter, Saim Ayub, has earned a nomination for the prestigious ICC Men’s Emerging Cricketer of the Year 2024 award.
Ayub, who has been in remarkable form throughout the year, is one of four contenders for this award, which highlights the best rising stars in international cricket.
In 2024, Ayub made a significant impact on the international stage with his aggressive batting approach across formats. In 41 innings, he scored 1,254 runs, including three centuries and one half-century in just nine One-Day International (ODI) matches.
His exceptional consistency and adaptability in different conditions have established him as one of Pakistan’s most promising cricket talents.
Ayub was also named Player of the Series after Pakistan’s commanding 3-0 victory over South Africa, following a remarkable climb in the ICC rankings. He jumped 57 spots to reach the 23rd position with 603 points.
Ayub’s standout performances, including two centuries in the series, have solidified his reputation as one of the most exciting young players in cricket.
Ayub faces tough competition from three other young cricketers who also had impressive years. England’s fast bowler Gus Atkinson is nominated after claiming 52 wickets in just 11 matches, showcasing his lethal pace and effectiveness.
The shortlist also includes Shamar Joseph of the West Indies, a talented fast bowler who took 29 wickets in 8 Test matches, and Kamindu Mendis of Sri Lanka, a batting all-rounder who scored 1,451 runs in 32 matches.
The nominees were announced by the International Cricket Council (ICC) on December 28, 2024, with the winners to be revealed in January 2025.
In addition to the Emerging Cricketer award, the ICC will present honors across 12 categories to recognize the top performers of 2024.
