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As the cricketing world braces itself for the grand spectacle of the ICC awards, one category that always steals the limelight is the Test Cricketer of the Year.
The year 2023 witnessed some extraordinary performances on the cricket field, setting the stage for fierce competition among the world’s best. Here are the achievements and contributions of the top four contenders who have left an indelible mark on the red-ball cricket landscape throughout the past year.
4 contenders for Test cricketer of the year 2023
1. Ravichandran Ashwin (India)
India‘s spin maestro, Ravichandran Ashwin, emerged as a force to be reckoned with in the Test arena during 2023. With a phenomenal record of 41 wickets in seven matches, he played a pivotal role in India’s journey through the WTC cycle of 2021-23. However, the twist in the tale came when the off-spinner surprisingly found himself out of the playing XI in the crucial WTC final, despite his significant contributions. Ashwin’s journey in 2023 is a story of resilience and skill, making him a worthy nominee for the coveted title.
2. Travis Head (Australia)
Travis Head, the Australian crackerjack, etched his name in the annals of cricket history with a remarkable performance throughout 2023. Accumulating a staggering 919 runs in 12 matches, the left-handed batter’s standout moment came in the WTC 21-23 final. His Player of the Match performance, featuring a scintillating century, played a pivotal role in Australia‘s triumph over India. Head’s prowess and ability to seize crucial moments make him a strong contender for the prestigious prize.
3. Usman Khawaja (Australia)
Another left-handed stalwart, Usman Khawaja, had a stellar year in 2023. Amassing a commendable 1210 runs in 13 matches, he showcased his ability to anchor the innings and play match-winning knocks. His consistency and hunger for big runs make him a formidable candidate for the prestigious award, as he played a crucial role in Australia’s success on the Test stage.
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4. Joe Root (England)
Former England captain Joe Root continues to be a force in Test cricket, leaving an indelible mark in 2023. The right-handed batter’s all-round brilliance saw him amass 787 runs and claim 8 wickets in just eight matches. His cricketing acumen was evident throughout the year, guiding England through challenging encounters. Root’s contribution with both bat and ball adds a unique dimension to his candidacy for the ICC Test Cricketer of the Year.
