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He International Cricket Council (ICC) has revealed its list of nominees for the Cricketer of the Year Awards 2024highlighting players who have left an indelible mark on the world of cricket with their remarkable skills and match-winning performances across all formats. The list celebrates those who have consistently excelled on the global stage, contributing significantly to the success of their teams throughout the year.
However, one surprising omission has caught the attention of fans and experts alike: the vice-captain of the Indian cricket team. Smriti MandhanaWidely considered one of the best hitters in the game, he missed the cut. This unexpected exclusion has sparked widespread debate and discussion, with many questioning the criteria and fairness of the selection process.
The nominees and their stellar performances
Chamari Athapatthu of Sri Lanka has earned a nomination for his leadership and all-round contributions. He scored over 720 runs in T20Is at an average of 41.27 and took 21 wickets, playing a crucial role in Sri Lanka’s first Asia Cup triumph. He also accumulated 458 runs in 9 ODIs, with 195 unbeaten runs being his best mark.
Similarly, Amelia Kerr of New Zealand has been nominated for her exceptional year, particularly highlighted by her performance in the T20 World Cup, where she was the leading wicket-taker with 29 wickets and scored 387 runs. His all-round skills have been vital for New Zealand. He also scored 264 runs in 9 ODIs with fifties.
Australia Annabel Sutherland He has also secured a place in the list, having scored 651 runs and taken 43 wickets across all formats. His performances in the World T20 and his consistent performance in ODIs have been key for Australia.
South Africa captain Laura Wolvaardt he also makes the cut, leading with the bat in the T20 World Cup and scoring over 1,500 runs across all formats. His leadership in guiding South Africa to their second consecutive T20 World Cup final has been commendable.
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The omission of Smriti Mandhana
Despite topping the scoring charts in both ODIs and T20Is, Mandhana failed to earn a nomination for the award. He scored 747 runs in ODIs at an average of 57.46, including four centuries, and 763 runs in T20Is at an average of 42.38. He even played a single Test and scored 149 runs. His absence from the list has sparked significant discussion, with many fans and experts questioning the selection criteria.
Mandhana’s performances throughout the year were exceptional but she was overlooked for the nomination, sparking debates on social media platforms where cricket enthusiasts expressed their shock and disappointment. Some argued that her consistent scoring and the impact she had on matches should have made her a shoo-in for the award.
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This article was first published on WomenCricket.com, a Cricket Times business.
