The ICC has revealed the nominees for the Men’s ODI Cricketer of the Year 2024, but Indian players have been notably absent from the shortlist. Instead, four cricketers have made the cut: Wanindu Hasaranga and Kusal Mendis from Sri Lanka, Azmatullah Omarzai from Afghanistan, and Sherfane Rutherford from the West Indies.
Despite the focus on the T20I World Cup this year, these players have impressed in the limited ODI matches played throughout 2024. Hasaranga, known for his all-round abilities, claimed 26 wickets in ODIs with a stellar economy rate of 5.36, including a memorable 7/19 against Zimbabwe in Colombo. Mendis contributed significantly with both the bat and gloves, amassing 742 runs at a strike rate of 90.59, while also taking 19 dismissals as a wicketkeeper. His standout performance came with a career-best 143 against New Zealand.
Omarzai had an excellent year, scoring 417 runs at a strike rate of 105.56, while also taking 7 wickets at an economy rate of 4.90. His highlight performances included a stunning unbeaten 149 against Sri Lanka and an all-round display against South Africa. Rutherford also made an impact, scoring 425 runs at a strike rate of 120.05, with a blistering 113 off 80 balls against Bangladesh.
Fans can vote for their favorite nominees on the ICC official website, with the winner to be announced in the coming weeks.
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