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Jasprit Bumrah Named ICC Men’s Test Cricketer of the Year
Jasprit Bumrah of India has emerged as the ICC Men’s Test Cricketer of the Year, surpassing notable England players Joe Root and Harry Brook for the prestigious honor. Bumrah’s exceptional performance throughout the year set him apart, as he amassed an impressive 71 wickets at an average of 14.92 across only 13 Test matches. In contrast, Root and Brook also had commendable seasons, with Root leading the world in runs scored with 1,556 at an average of 55.57, while Brook contributed 1,100 runs, which included the only triple century of the year.
Gus Atkinson was noted as Bumrah’s nearest rival, finishing with 52 wickets during the year.
“Test cricket has always been a format I hold close to my heart, and to be recognised on this platform is truly special,” Bumrah remarked upon receiving the award. He emphasized the significance of communal support, stating, “This award is not just a reflection of my individual efforts but also of the unwavering support of my team-mates, coaches, and fans who continue to believe and inspire me every day.”
Moreover, he highlighted the pride he feels representing India, noting, “Knowing my efforts bring smiles to people around the world makes this journey even more special.”
Celebrating Additional Achievements
In a remarkable showing for Indian cricket, Smriti Mandhana was also awarded ICC Women’s ODI Cricketer of the Year, outshining competitors Laura Wolvaardt, Annabel Sutherland, and Chamari Athapaththu. Meanwhile, Afghanistan’s Azmatullah Omarzai took home the title of Men’s ODI Cricketer of the Year.
England’s Dominance in the Test Team of the Year
For the ICC Men’s Test Team of the Year, England welcomed Jamie Smith, who made a name for himself alongside star players Root, Brook, and Ben Duckett. Smith, a fresh face in the team, secured his place after a strong debut season where he scored one century and four fifties, gathering a total of 667 runs across nine matches.
Root, Duckett, and Brook led the batting charts with their impressive totals, complemented by India’s Yashasvi Jaiswal, New Zealand’s Kane Williamson, and Sri Lanka’s Kamindu Mendis rounding out the top run-scorers for the year.
On the bowling front, Bumrah was recognized with fellow bowlers Ravindra Jadeja (India), Pat Cummins (Australia), and Matt Henry (New Zealand) making the lineup. Notably missing from this lineup was England’s Atkinson, who had a strong year with his 52 wickets and significant contributions with the bat.
Interestingly, no South African players were included in the final XI, despite the team reaching the World Test Championship Final.
Complete Teams Recognized
Men’s Test Team of the Year: Yashasvi Jaiswal (India), Ben Duckett (England), Kane Williamson (New Zealand), Joe Root (England), Harry Brook (England), Kamindu Mendis (Sri Lanka), Jamie Smith (England, wicketkeeper), Ravindra Jadeja (India), Pat Cummins (Australia, captain), Matt Henry (New Zealand), Jasprit Bumrah (India).
Women’s ODI Team of the Year: Smriti Mandhana (India), Laura Wolvaardt (South Africa, captain), Chamari Athapaththu (Sri Lanka), Hayley Matthews (West Indies), Marizanne Kapp (South Africa), Ash Gardner (Australia), Annabel Sutherland (Australia), Amy Jones (England, wicketkeeper), Deepti Sharma (India), Sophie Ecclestone (England), Kate Cross (England).
Men’s ODI Team of the Year: Saim Ayub (Pakistan), Rahmanullah Gurbaz (Afghanistan), Pathum Nissanka (Sri Lanka), Kusal Mendis (Sri Lanka), Charith Asalanka (Sri Lanka, captain), Sherfane Rutherford (West Indies), Azmatullah Omarzai (Afghanistan), Wanindu Hasaranga (Sri Lanka), Shaheen Shah Afridi (Pakistan), Haris Rauf (Pakistan), AM Ghazanfar (Afghanistan).
Who will win the ICC Men’s Champions Trophy? Catch every match from February 19-March 9, live on Sky Sports.
Source
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