The ICC has revealed its nominees for the Men’s T20I Cricketer of the Year, and it’s a star-studded lineup. India’s rising pacer Arshdeep Singh, Zimbabwe’s evergreen all-rounder Sikandar Raza, Pakistan’s batting maestro Babar Azam, and Australia’s power-hitter Travis Head have all made the cut. These four have delivered jaw-dropping performances throughout the year, and the award could go to any of them.
Arshdeep Singh: India
Matches: 18 | Wickets: 36 | Average: 13.5 | Best Bowling: 4/9
Arshdeep Singh has been a revelation for India in T20Is this year. With Jasprit Bumrah playing sparingly, Arshdeep has stepped up as the team’s main pacer and done a fabulous job. His 36 wickets in just 18 matches came at an incredible average of 13.5. Whether it was at home or overseas, Arshdeep delivered in crunch situations, helping India notch up some key wins.
Memorable Performance:
Arshdeep’s standout moment came in the T20 World Cup final. Defending 177, he dismissed Aiden Markram early and later got rid of Quinton de Kock. But it was his 19th over, where he gave away just four runs, that really sealed the deal for India. The pressure was too much for David Miller, who fell soon after.
Sikandar Raza: Zimbabwe
Matches: 24 | Runs: 573 | Wickets: 24 | Best Bowling: 5/18
Sikandar Raza continues to be the heartbeat of Zimbabwean cricket. At 39, he’s still delivering match-winning performances, leading his side to victories over big teams like India and Pakistan. With 573 runs and 24 wickets this year, Raza has been Zimbabwe’s go-to player in every situation.
Memorable Performance:
Raza’s magic was on full display against India. With the bat, he held the innings together on a tricky pitch. Then, with the ball, he turned the game on its head, dismissing Shubman Gill and cleaning up the tail. His 3/25 helped Zimbabwe pull off a stunning 13-run win.
Babar Azam: Pakistan
Matches: 24 | Runs: 738 | Average: 33.54 | Strike Rate: 133.21
Babar Azam has been Pakistan’s batting backbone once again. He scored 738 runs this year, including six fifties, and did it with an improved strike rate of 133.21. He’s also closing in on Rohit Sharma’s record for the most T20I runs ever, sitting just eight runs behind.
Memorable Performance:
Babar’s brilliance shone in a series decider in Ireland. Chasing 179, he smashed an unbeaten 75 off just 42 balls. His six fours and five sixes made it look easy, guiding Pakistan to a comfortable win.
Travis Head: Australia
Matches: 15 | Runs: 539 | Average: 38.5 | Strike Rate: 178.47
Travis Head finally got a proper run in Australia’s T20I team this year, and he made it count. Scoring 539 runs at a blistering strike rate of 178.47, Head proved he’s more than capable at the highest level. His explosive batting was crucial in Australia’s World Cup campaign and beyond.
Memorable Performance:
Head’s fireworks against England in Southampton were unforgettable. In just 23 balls, he blasted 59 runs, hitting 12 boundaries, including four sixes. His knock set up a big total for Australia, and they cruised to victory.
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