India's left-arm pacer Arshdeep Singh was crowned the ICC Men's T20I Cricketer of the Year ahead of Jasprit Bumrah for his consistent run in the calendar year and playing a crucial role in T20 World Cup 2024 triumph. Arshdeep was delighted to win the award and welcomes the challenges posed by the fast-paced shortest format of the game.
“I am delighted to win the ICC Men’s T20I Cricketer of the Year 2024 award. The shortest format of the game poses various challenges for bowlers but I consider it as an opportunity to test my skillset and provide success with the ball for my team," Arshdeep said in ICC's media release.
“2024 was indeed a great year individually and collectively for us as a unit. Winning the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024 was surreal and I am glad I could contribute to a successful and memorable World Cup campaign for my country.
“There is no bigger motivation than representing the nation at the biggest stage. I am extremely excited for the journey ahead and I am looking forward to giving my best for the team.”
Arshdeep's T20I numbers in 2024
In 2024, Arshdeep was the fifth-highest wicket-taker and second-highest among full-member nations after Sri Lanka's Wanindu Hasaranga. From 18 T20Is, he bagged 36 wickets at an average of 15.31 including one four-fer. His economy rate was 7.49 runs per over despite being designated to bowl in death overs.
In the T20 World Cup 2024, he was the joint-highest wicket-taker alongside Afghanistan's left-arm pacer Fazalhaq Farooqi. The 25-year-old claimed 17 wickets from eight games at an average of 12.65.
Arshdeep's current form and chase for milestone
Recently, Arshdeep also became India's leading wicket-taker in T20Is surpassing leg-spinner Yuzvendra Chahal. In the ongoing five-T20I series against England at home, he has taken three wickets from two appearances. He is also on his way to become the quickest pacer to 100 T20I wickets and break Pakistan's Haris Rauf's record. He has taken 98 wickets from 62 T20Is so far.
Arshdeep to play Champions Trophy 2025
Also, he is now part of India's Champions Trophy 2025 squad. He has been picked in the squad ahead of Mohammed Siraj. Arshdeep will be seen bowling in ODIs in the three-ODI series against Jos Buttler's England starting next month.