Afghanistan all-rounder Azmatullah Omarzai has been named the ICC Men’s ODI Cricketer of the Year 2024, following a year of exceptional performances with both bat and ball.

The International Cricket Council announced the award on Monday.

At just 24, Omarzai emerged as one of the top performers in One-Day Internationals last year, building on a strong 2023 to achieve remarkable consistency.

He scored 417 runs at an impressive average of 52.12 and claimed 17 wickets at 20.47 in 14 matches, making him Afghanistan’s second-highest run-scorer and wicket-taker for the year.

Omarzai’s contributions were instrumental in Afghanistan’s four consecutive ODI series victories over Ireland, South Africa, Bangladesh, and Zimbabwe. His standout performances included an unbeaten 149 in a valiant effort against Sri Lanka and a rapid 86 not out off 50 balls against South Africa that secured a series-clinching victory.

Alongside teammate AM Ghazanfar, who led Afghanistan’s bowling with 21 wickets, Omarzai was named in the ICC ODI Team of the Year. Afghanistan’s success in 2024 included eight wins out of 14 ODIs, with Omarzai playing a pivotal role in each.

This recognition cements Omarzai’s place among cricket’s rising stars, highlighting his potential as a dominant all-rounder in the international arena.