Dubai, Dec 28
Gus Atkinson (England), Kamindu Mendis (Sri Lanka), Saim Ayub (Pakistan), and Shamar Joseph (West Indies) have been named the 2024 ICC Men’s Emerging Cricketer of the Year nominees
Gus Atkinson’s meteoric rise began with a stunning debut in James Anderson’s final Test in July. The 26-year-old announced himself with a career-best performance of 7/45 at Lord’s against the West Indies, followed by a five-wicket haul in the second innings to finish with 12/106—the fourth-best figures by a debutant in men’s Test history.
Atkinson has since cemented his place as England’s frontline pacer, claiming 34 wickets in home Tests against the West Indies and Sri Lanka, and adding 12 more during England’s historic series win in New Zealand.
His batting prowess came to the fore with a 101-ball century against Sri Lanka at Lord’s, proving his all-round capabilities. Atkinson’s consistency and match-winning spells have made him a standout performer.
Kamindu Mendis has emerged as a cornerstone of Sri Lanka’s batting lineup in 2024, equalling Sir Don Bradman’s record of reaching 1,000 Test runs in just 13 innings. His 1049 runs in nine Tests this year, averaging a staggering 74.92, include five centuries and three fifties.