The International Cricket Council (ICC) announced young Pakistani batter Saim Ayub is a nominee for the ICC Emerging Men’s Cricketer of the Year 2024 award.
Ayub’s performances have been outstanding this year, particularly in one-day internationals. He played nine matches, scoring 515 runs at an average of 64.37 and hit three centuries, including two in matches against South Africa. These efforts contributed significantly to Pakistan’s clean sweep of the Proteas in a three-match series.
The ICC highlighted Ayub’s role as a dynamic new left-handed opener in Pakistan’s batting lineup. His robust performances in ODIs were critical as Pakistan secured several series victories abroad—in Australia, Zimbabwe, and South Africa—preparing to defend their ICC Champions Trophy title. In a crucial low-scoring match in Australia, Ayub’s prowess was instrumental in securing Pakistan’s first ODI series win in 22 years.
Additionally, Ayub has proven valuable with the ball, taking five wickets at an economical rate of 4.63. His bowling in key moments, including dismissing Aiden Markram, was pivotal in one of Pakistan’s standout victories of the year.
Other nominees for the ICC Emerging Men’s Cricketer of the Year 2024 include Kamindu Mendis of Sri Lanka, Shamar Joseph of the West Indies, and Gus Atkinson of England.
The ICC also disclosed nominees for the ICC Emerging Women’s Cricketer of the Year 2024 award, featuring India’s Shreyanka Patil, Saskia Horley of Scotland, Annerie Dercksen of South Africa, and Freya Sargent of Ireland.
