The Apex Cricket Council has unveiled the nominees for the coveted ODI Cricketer of the Year 2023 award, and cricket fans across the globe are in for a thrilling wait. This year’s […]
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Jan 4, 2024 7:02 pm
Indian Cricket Team (Source – Twitter)
The Apex Cricket Council has unveiled the nominees for the coveted ODI Cricketer of the Year 2023 award, and cricket fans across the globe are in for a thrilling wait. This year’s shortlist boasts three Indian stalwarts who were instrumental. alongside a Kiwi powerhouse who cemented his status as one of the best in the business.
After a period of struggle, Virat Kohli roared back to form in 2023, amassing a staggering 1377 runs in 24 ODI innings at an astonishing average of 72.47. His hunger for runs was unquenchable, culminating in a record-breaking 50th ODI century and the Player of the Tournament award at the ODI World Cup, a testament to his unwavering commitment and impact on the Indian batting line-up.
Shubman Gill is the second Indian on the list, emerging as a pillar of stability at the top of the Indian order, Gill piled on 1584 runs at a healthy average of 63.36. His elegant stroke-making and fearless approach left audiences mesmerized. He scored 5 centuries and his strike rate of over 100 is testimony to the consistent impact that he’s had at the top of the order. He also had a role to play in the World Cup’s latter stages after missing out initially due to illness. He scored 4 half-centuries in the tournament including a match-winning 80* against New Zealand in the semi-final. Gill’s meteoric rise has him firmly in the reckoning for cricketing stardom, and this nomination only adds to his burgeoning reputation.
Mohammed Shami, the pace bowling sultan, was the assassin responsible for ripping through opposition defences. With a mesmerizing 43 scalps to his name, Shami was too good, especially in the World Cup. His pinpoint accuracy and immaculate seam position, both ways proved unplayable for many, with his four five-wicket hauls and a sensational 7/57 in the semi-final, the best bowling figures in ODI cricket this year, solidifying his dominance. Shami’s contribution to the ball was a cornerstone of India’s World Cup success, making him a deserving contender for the coveted award.
Check out the 4th nominee
Daryl Mitchell, the Kiwi rock, rounds out the quartet with his trademark grit and unwavering determination. Mitchell racked up 1204 runs in just 26 games this year, playing a flexible role in the middle-order, proving that big-hitting can indeed be coupled with consistency and can be just as imp. His stunning centuries against India in the World Cup were masterclasses in composure and calculated aggression. The second one, which came in the semi-final, gave the Indians a bit of a scare. Mitchell’s nomination is a testament to his brilliant skill set and his rise as a global batting force.
With four outstanding performers vying for the prestigious award, the race to the top is as enthralling as any cricketing battle. Kohli’s resurgence, Gill’s precocious talent, Shami’s unplayable aura, and Mitchell’s quiet dominance – each nominee brings a unique and compelling case to the table. The cricketing world awaits with bated breath as the council announces the winner, marking the culmination of a year of extraordinary ODI performances.
