Gus Atkinson, Kamindu Mendis, Saim Ayub, and Shamar Joseph nominated for ICC Men’s Emerging Cricketer of the Year

Dubai, Dec 28 (NationPress) Gus Atkinson (England), Kamindu Mendis (Sri Lanka), Saim Ayub (Pakistan), and Shamar Joseph (West Indies) have been recognized as nominees for the 2024 ICC Men’s Emerging Cricketer of the Year.

Gus Atkinson’s rapid ascent in cricket began with a remarkable debut during James Anderson’s final Test in July. At the age of 26, he made a statement with a career-best performance of 7/45 at Lord’s against the West Indies, followed by a five-wicket haul in the second innings, concluding with a total of 12/106—the fourth-best figures by a debutant in men’s Test history.

Since then, Atkinson has established himself as England’s premier fast bowler, accumulating 34 wickets in home Tests against the West Indies and Sri Lanka, and adding another 12 wickets during England’s historic series victory in New Zealand.

His batting talent was showcased with a century off 101 balls against Sri Lanka at Lord’s, highlighting his all-round abilities. Atkinson’s consistent and match-winning spells have made him a notable figure in the game.

Kamindu Mendis has become a key player in Sri Lanka’s batting order in 2024, matching Sir Don Bradman’s record by reaching 1,000 Test runs in just 13 innings. His impressive 1049 runs in nine Tests this year, averaging an astonishing 74.92, includes five centuries and three fifties.

Mendis’s career-best score of 182 against New Zealand was crucial in securing a 2-0 home series victory, strengthening Sri Lanka’s ICC World Test Championship campaign. His remarkable performance on the tour of England, where he scored 267 runs, was vital for Sri Lanka’s first Test win in England in a decade.

His unbeaten 182 against New Zealand, featuring 16 boundaries and four sixes, laid the groundwork for a series victory.

Saim Ayub, a 22-year-old from Pakistan, has captivated the cricketing world with his aggressive batting style at the top of the order. Ayub played a crucial role in Pakistan’s away series triumphs in Australia, Zimbabwe, and South Africa. His two centuries in South Africa earned him the Player of the Series award as Pakistan achieved a clean sweep with a 3-0 victory.

Ayub’s all-around abilities were on display as he also took five wickets at an economy rate of 4.63. His remarkable ODI innings of 109 against South Africa under pressure illustrated his capacity to stabilize an innings and lead his team to success.

Ayub's 109 during a tense chase against South Africa, along with a key wicket, showcased his match-winning potential.

Shamar Joseph’s ascent has been extraordinary. The 22-year-old fast bowler made his debut in Australia, aiding the West Indies in achieving their first Test victory Down Under since 1997. His tally of 13 wickets in two Tests, including two five-wicket hauls, emphasized his significance.

Joseph’s exceptional performance of 7/68 at the Gabba, where he competed through injury to secure a historic victory, stands out as one of the highlights of 2024. He also performed well in home series against Bangladesh and South Africa, concluding with 12 wickets.

His electrifying spell at the Gabba, clinching a dramatic eight-run win for the West Indies, solidified his status as a match-winner.