Rohit Sharma named CEAT Men's International Cricketer of the Year

India’s 2024 T20 World Cup-winning captain Rohit Sharma, on August 21 (Wednesday), was named the ‘Men's International Cricketer of the Year’ at the CEAT Cricket Rating Awards. Under his leadership, India also finished runners-up in the 2023 ODI World Cup.

Meanwhile, Virat Kohli was named the ‘Men’s ODI Batter of the Year’ while Mohammed Shami was given the ‘ODI Bowler of the Year’ award. Yashasvi Jaiswal and Ravichandran Ashwin were named ‘Men’s Test Batter and Bowler of the Year’ respectively. 

“It was my dream to transform this team and not worry too much about the stats, the results, to make sure that we create that environment where people can go out there and play freely without thinking too much,” said Rohit, who has now retired from the 20-over format.

“That is what was required. I got a lot of help from my three pillars, who are actually Mr Jay Shah, Mr Rahul Dravid (and the) chairman of selectors Ajit Agarkar. That was very critical for me to do what I did and obviously not to forget the players, who came in at different points in time and helped the team to achieve what we achieved.”

Talking about ending India’s 11-year trophy drought, Rohit said: “[It was] a feeling that cannot come everyday. It was something that we were really hoping for. When we won the World Cup, it was important for all of us to enjoy the moment which we did pretty well and thanks to our nation as well for celebrating with us.

“As much as it meant for us, it meant a whole lot to the entire nation as well. It felt really great to bring it (trophy) back home here and celebrate with everyone here. [It is a] fantastic feeling that can never be put out in words. I don’t think it’s a feeling that can be expressed. It won’t do justice to our effect when all that happened.”

New Zealand's Tim Southee was given the 'Men’s T20I Bowler of the Year' award, while England's Phil Salt was named the 'Best Batter of the Year' in the 20-over format. Tamil Nadu’s captain Sai Kishore was named 'Domestic Cricketer of the Year’.

In women’s cricket, Smriti Mandhana and Deepti Sharma were adjudged as the best batter and bowler, respectively. 

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