Azmatullah Omarzai named ICC Men’s ODI Cricketer of the Year at ICC Awards

Afghanistan all-rounder Azmatullah Omarzai has been honored as the ICC Men’s ODI Cricketer of the Year, celebrating a stellar 2024 where he showcased exceptional performances with both bat and ball. At just 24 years old, Omarzai proved to be a vital player for Afghanistan, helping his team secure four ODI series wins out of five during the year.

Despite starting the year with a series defeat against Sri Lanka, Omarzai’s contribution was remarkable. In his very first ODI of the year, he smashed an unbeaten 149 in a valiant effort that highlighted his ability to anchor innings under pressure. His performances were central to Afghanistan’s victories against Ireland, South Africa, Bangladesh, and Zimbabwe.

Omarzai ended 2024 as Afghanistan’s second-highest run-scorer, behind Rahmanullah Gurbaz, and second-highest wicket-taker, trailing only AM Ghazanfar. He accumulated runs at an impressive average of 52.12 and picked up wickets at an economical average of 20.47. His all-round brilliance consistently lifted Afghanistan in key matches.

One of his standout performances came against South Africa, where he smashed a destructive 86 not out off just 50 deliveries, setting up a comprehensive win in the second ODI to clinch the series. Another unforgettable contribution was in the third ODI against Bangladesh in Sharjah. With the series on the line, Omarzai delivered a stunning death-overs bowling spell, dismissing key batters, including Mehidy Hasan Miraz, to return figures of 4/37 from seven overs.

Chasing a target of 245 in the same match, Afghanistan found themselves struggling at 84/3. Omarzai rose to the occasion, forming a crucial century partnership with Rahmanullah Gurbaz before finishing the game in style. He struck an unbeaten 70 off 77 balls, sealing the match and series with a massive six and ten deliveries to spare.