Mumbai: The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has announced the winners of the prestigious Polly Umrigar Award for the Best International Cricketer of the 2023-24 season. Jasprit Bumrah has been selected as the Best Male Cricketer, while Smriti Mandhana has been honored as the Best Female Cricketer.
Bumrah’s Stellar Performance
Fast bowler Jasprit Bumrah, who was also named ICC’s Best Test and Overall Cricketer of 2024, played a pivotal role in India’s victories in the home series against England and Bangladesh. The 31-year-old took 32 wickets in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, where he was named the Player of the Series for his outstanding performance against Australia. His precision, skill, and consistency have earned him another major achievement in Indian cricket.
Smriti Mandhana’s Historic Feat
In the women’s category, Smriti Mandhana was crowned the Best Indian Cricketer of 2023-24. The 28-year-old was also named ICC’s Women’s ODI Cricketer of the Year. Mandhana scored an impressive 743 runs in 2024, which included four centuries, setting a new record for the most ODI centuries in a calendar year in women’s cricket. Her performance included 95 boundaries and six sixes, averaging 57.86 with a strike rate of 95.15.
Both Bumrah and Mandhana’s achievements highlight their immense contribution to Indian cricket. The BCCI Awards stand as a testament to their exceptional performances and valuable contributions to the sport.
