Every year, the ICC Men’s ODI Cricketer of the Year shortlist becomes a hot topic among cricket fans. But this time, the biggest headline isn’t who made the list—it’s who didn’t. Babar Azam and Virat Kohli, two of the modern greats, have been left out of the nominations for 2024. Shocking, right?
Instead, the ICC has spotlighted four other players who lit up the 50-over format this year. Let’s break down their phenomenal performances and what earned them a spot on this prestigious list.
Wanindu Hasaranga: The Spin Maestro
When it comes to white-ball cricket, Wanindu Hasaranga is in a league of his own. The Sri Lankan leg-spinner was unstoppable in 2024. Remember his jaw-dropping 7/19 against Zimbabwe in Colombo? That performance set the tone for his year.
Hasaranga didn’t just rely on one-off brilliance, though. His knack for striking every three overs made him a constant headache for batters. Whether he was facing Afghanistan, the West Indies, or India, Hasaranga proved he’s more than just a bowler—he’s a match-winner.
Azmatullah Omarzai: Afghanistan’s Versatile Star
Azmatullah Omarzai might not have the global stardom of a Kohli or Babar, but he’s been quietly building his case as one of cricket’s most complete players.
Kicking off the year with a dazzling 149* against Sri Lanka, Omarzai set the bar high. And he didn’t stop there. His all-around brilliance helped Afghanistan secure a historic series win against South Africa, with key contributions against Bangladesh along the way. Whether with bat or ball, Omarzai consistently delivered when it mattered most.
Kusal Mendis: Sri Lanka’s Rock
If consistency had a face in 2024, it might just belong to Kusal Mendis. Averaging over 50 in ODIs, the former Sri Lankan captain made sure his name was in the mix.
Mendis’ career-best 143 in Dambulla was a masterclass in anchoring an innings. But his value went beyond the bat—he was a wall behind the stumps too. With 19 dismissals to his name, he proved he’s as sharp with the gloves as he is with the bat.
Sherfane Rutherford: The Caribbean Powerhouse
Sherfane Rutherford has always been known for his explosive T20I batting, but in 2024, he showed the world he’s just as dangerous in ODIs.
The West Indies batter brought fireworks to the format, none more memorable than his blistering 113 off 80 balls against Bangladesh in St. Kitts. That knock not only secured a series win but also cemented Rutherford as a rising star.
The Elephant in the Room
Now, let’s address the obvious question—why no Kohli or Babar? While both legends had decent years, the ICC seems to have prioritized fresh faces and impactful performances. This isn’t to say Kohli and Babar were out of form; it’s just that the four nominees outshone them in the 50-over game this year.
Who Deserves the Crown?
It’s a tough call. Each of these players brought something unique to the game in 2024. Hasaranga’s wicket-taking spree, Omarzai’s all-around brilliance, Mendis’ consistency, and Rutherford’s explosive batting have all left cricket fans in awe.
So, who’s your pick for the ICC Men’s ODI Cricketer of the Year? Let the debates—and the excitement—begin!
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