The International Cricket Council (ICC) has nominated young Pakistani batter Saim Ayub for the ICC Emerging Men’s Cricketer of the Year 2024 award, announced on Saturday.

Saim Ayub had an outstanding year, particularly in the one-day format, amassing 515 runs in nine matches with an impressive average of 64.37. His achievements include three centuries, two of which came against South Africa, playing a crucial role in Pakistan’s 3-0 series whitewash of the Proteas.

“Pakistan discovered a dynamic new left-handed opener in Ayub. While he featured across all three formats, his most remarkable performances in 2024 came in ODIs. As Pakistan secured multiple away series victories in Australia, Zimbabwe, and South Africa, setting the stage for their ICC Champions Trophy defense, Ayub shone at the top of the order,” stated the ICC.

The ICC also highlighted Ayub’s significant contribution in a low-scoring ODI series in Australia, where his efforts helped Pakistan secure their first series win Down Under in 22 years.

Additionally, the 22-year-old proved his versatility with the ball, taking five wickets with an economy rate of 4.63. His dismissal of Aiden Markram was pivotal in orchestrating one of Pakistan’s most memorable victories of the year.

The shortlist for the ICC Emerging Men’s Cricketer of the Year 2024 award also includes Sri Lanka’s Kamindu Mendis, West Indies’ Shamar Joseph, and England’s Gus Atkinson.

In the women’s category, the ICC announced the nominees for the ICC Emerging Women’s Cricketer of the Year 2024 award. India’s Shreyanka Patil, Scotland’s Saskia Horley, South Africa’s Annerie Dercksen, and Ireland’s Freya Sargent have been shortlisted for the honor.