The International Cricket Council (ICC) has announced the nominees for the 2024 ICC Men’s Emerging Cricketer of the Year award, with Pakistan’s rising star batter Saim Ayub earning a spot among the contenders. Ayub’s stellar performances throughout the year have solidified his position as one of cricket’s most promising talents.
The list of nominees includes a mix of outstanding young cricketers who have left a significant mark on the international stage. The group comprises two seamers with impressive Test debuts, a Sri Lankan southpaw who matched one of Don Bradman’s records, and Pakistan’s dynamic opener, Saim Ayub, who played a pivotal role in several historic triumphs.
Saim Ayub (Pakistan)
• 515 runs in nine ODIs, averaging 64.37
• Five wickets with an economy rate of 4.63
Ayub has emerged as a flamboyant southpaw at the top of Pakistan’s batting order, excelling across all three formats of the game. However, it was in One-Day Internationals (ODIs) that he truly shined in 2024. His contributions played a crucial role as Pakistan secured away series victories against Australia, Zimbabwe, and South Africa, setting the stage for their ICC Champions Trophy defense.
In South Africa, Ayub delivered two centuries in three games, earning the Player of the Series award in Pakistan’s historic 3-0 clean sweep—the Proteas’ first home whitewash. He also excelled in a low-scoring series against Australia, where Pakistan clinched their first ODI series win Down Under in 22 years.
Ayub’s all-round abilities also came to the fore, with the 22-year-old claiming five wickets with a commendable economy rate of 4.63.
Memorable Performance
One of Ayub’s standout moments came against South Africa in Paarl. After dismissing Aiden Markram with the ball, Ayub anchored a tense chase of 240 against the Proteas’ formidable pace attack. With Pakistan struggling at 60/4, Ayub partnered with Salman Agha (82) to add 109 runs off 119 balls. His composed innings of 109 runs, featuring 10 fours and three sixes, steered Pakistan to a landmark series victory.
Other Contenders
• Gus Atkinson (England): 52 wickets from 11 matches at an average of 22.15.
• Kamindu Mendis (Sri Lanka): 1,451 runs from 32 matches, averaging 50.03.
• Shamar Joseph (West Indies): 29 wickets from eight Tests, averaging 26.75.
With his extraordinary achievements, Saim Ayub has established himself as a strong contender for the prestigious prize, cementing his status as one of the brightest young talents in international cricket.
