Saim Ayub (Pakistan)

515 runs from nine ODIs, averaging 64.37

The year that was

In Ayub, Pakistan found a new flamboyant southpaw at the top of their batting order. While Ayub was a consistent feature across all three formats, many of his best performances in 2024 came in ODIs.

As Pakistan won multiple away series in Australia, Zimbabwe and South Africa to prime themselves for the ICC Champions Trophy defence, Ayub went big as an opener.

In South Africa, the left-hander sizzled with two tons from the three games and finished as the Player of the Series in a 3-0 clean sweep – South Africa’s first at home.

Ayub was also impressive in a low-scoring affair in Australia, that saw Pakistan edge past the hosts to clinch their first ODI series triumph Down Under in 22 years.

The 22-year-old also provided Pakistan a handy option with the ball, claiming five wickets and boasting an economy rate of 4.63.

Memorable performance

Having claimed the all-important wicket of Aiden Markram with the ball, Ayub helped orchestrate one of the most impressive wins for Pakistan in the calendar year.

Chasing 240 against a strong Proteas pace attack in Paarl, Ayub stood tall with wickets falling at regular intervals at the other end. With Pakistan teetering at 60/4, Ayub combined alongside Salman Agha (82) for a game-changing stand.

A 109 runs off 119 deliveries – his second-best ODI score – composed of 10 fours and three sixes put Pakistan on the path to a dominant series win.