South Africa’s Annerie Dercksen named ICC Emerging Women’s Cricketer of the Year 2024

Annerie Dercksen, the promising 23-year-old all-rounder from South Africa, has been awarded the prestigious ICC Emerging Women’s Cricketer of the Year 2024. Dercksen edged out strong contenders, including Scotland’s Saskia Horley, India’s Shreyanka Patil, and Ireland’s Freya Sargent, to claim the honor, solidifying her status as one of cricket’s rising stars.

Dercksen made her international debut in January 2023 during the T20I triangular series against India and West Indies, and her career trajectory has been remarkable ever since. While her first year saw her finding her footing in five T20Is, 2024 became a breakthrough year where she made her Test and ODI debuts, leaving an indelible mark across all formats.

In 2024, Dercksen showcased her all-around abilities, contributing significantly with both bat and ball. She scored 161 runs and took 5 wickets in 17 T20Is, added 60 runs in two Tests, and recorded 70 runs and 6 wickets in four ODIs. These performances underlined her potential as a dependable all-rounder for South Africa.

Dercksen demonstrated her prowess in critical moments, particularly in the Women’s T20 World Cup 2024, where South Africa reached the final but fell short against New Zealand. Batting primarily in the lower order early in the year, she transitioned to a middle-order role, averaging 32.2 in T20Is.

Her standout performance came in the T20I series decider against Pakistan. Chasing 154, South Africa faced a tough situation after losing Tazmin Brits early and Anneke Bosch retiring hurt. Dercksen stepped up under pressure, smashing an unbeaten 44 off just 23 balls, including six fours and two sixes. Her explosive innings, particularly against experienced bowlers Nida Dar and Sadia Iqbal, led South Africa to a series-clinching victory and earned her the Player of the Match award.

As a medium pacer, Dercksen’s bowling was equally impactful. She claimed 11 wickets across formats in 2024, including a T20I career-best 2/5 against Sri Lanka in a commanding home win. In ODIs, she delivered her best figures of 3/16 against England, playing a pivotal role in securing victory.

Dercksen’s adaptability extended to the longest format of the game. Her 41 against England in Bloemfontein was a highlight, where she anchored a crucial 92-run partnership for the second wicket, demonstrating her ability to rebuild innings in challenging conditions.