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The ICC T20I Cricketer of the Year award has become a coveted recognition, celebrating players who demonstrate remarkable consistency, game-changing performances, and impact in the shortest format. Every year, the ICC reviews individual performances across various matches, including bilateral series and ICC tournaments, to identify players who defined excellence in T20 cricket. Whether it’s a batter lighting up the scoreboard or a bowler delivering under pressure, this award reflects the evolution of modern T20 cricket.
The significance of the T20I cricketer of the year award
This award holds immense importance in highlighting the contributions of players in a highly competitive format. T20I cricket demands adaptability, quick decision-making, and high-impact performances, and the players who excel set benchmarks for future generations. Winning the T20I Cricketer of the Year award is not just a personal milestone but also a recognition of the role a player plays in their team’s success. The ICC T20I Cricketer of the Year award not only honors individual brilliance but also inspires players to push boundaries in a fast-evolving format. Performances like those of Arshdeep Singh highlight the impact of this recognition in encouraging players to elevate their game, leaving a lasting legacy in T20I cricket.
ICC Men’s T20I cricketer of the year award: Honoring excellence
2021: Mohammad Rizwan’s consistency shines bright
In 2021, Mohammad Rizwan proved to be a vital cog in Pakistan‘s T20I setup, amassing 326 runs in just 29 matches at an outstanding average of 73.66. Rizwan’s year was highlighted by a maiden T20I century against South Africa in February, a knock that cemented his place as a dependable batter. His performance in the T20 World Cup game against India, where he scored an unbeaten 79 off 55 balls, epitomized his ability to deliver in high-pressure situations. Rizwan also contributed significantly as a wicketkeeper, recording 24 dismissals. His consistency and impact earned him recognition as one of the finest T20 players of the year.
2022: Suryakumar Yadav’s record-breaking year
Suryakumar Yadav redefined T20 batting in 2022 with his explosive approach. He shattered the record for the most sixes in a calendar year, hitting an astounding 68 maximums. Suryakumar accumulated 1164 runs at an impressive average of 46.56 and a jaw-dropping strike rate of 187.43. His ability to play 360-degree shots made him a nightmare for bowlers, and his performances were instrumental in India’s T20 dominance. Whether in bilateral series or ICC events, Suryakumar consistently delivered match-winning contributions, leaving an indelible mark on the format.
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2023: Suryakumar claims back-to-back honours
Building on his success, Suryakumar won the ICC Men’s T20I Cricketer of the Year award for the second consecutive year in 2023. Yadav amassed 733 runs in 17 innings, averaging 48.86 with a strike rate of 155.95. His eclectic mix of innovative shots and composure in crucial moments made him the backbone of India’s middle order. Suryakumar’s consistency and flair ensured that India remained competitive across formats, and his back-to-back awards highlight his dominance in the T20 landscape.
2024: Arshdeep Singh – The bowling sensation
In 2024, Arshdeep emerged as India’s leading wicket-taker in T20Is, claiming 36 wickets in 18 matches at an average of 15.31. Despite bowling in challenging phases like the powerplay and death overs, Arshdeep maintained an economy rate of 7.49 and a phenomenal strike rate of 10.80. His crucial role in India’s victorious T20 World Cup campaign cannot be overstated, as he delivered key breakthroughs in pressure moments. Arshdeep’s ability to bowl yorkers and deceive batters with variations made him one of the most feared bowlers in the format, earning him recognition as one of the year’s standout performers.
