The International Cricket Council (ICC) has awarded the title of Men’s Emerging Cricketer of the Year for 2024 to Sri Lanka’s left-handed batter Kamindu Mendis. His remarkable performances under pressure in high-stakes situations, particularly in Test cricket, have set him apart.
Mendis scored a total of 1,451 runs across all formats in 2024, averaging just above 50. This achievement came after starting the year with only one Test appearance for Sri Lanka, but by the end of 2024, he had solidified his position as a key player across all formats.
A standout performer in Sri Lanka’s campaign for a spot in the ICC World Test Championship Final, Mendis’ crucial innings made him one of only six batters to score more than 1,000 Test runs in the calendar year, with the highest average among them.
The 26-year-old middle-order batter made the most of his opportunities, scoring five centuries and three fifties. His contributions were instrumental in Sri Lanka’s significant Test victories against New Zealand, Bangladesh, and England, both at home and abroad.
In England, Mendis was the highest run-scorer for Sri Lanka in a three-Test series and helped the team secure their first Test win in England in a decade. His most memorable performance came in the second Test against New Zealand in Galle, where he scored a career-best unbeaten 182 in the first innings, contributing significantly to Sri Lanka’s total of 602/5 and their 2-0 series win. This knock, which included 16 boundaries and four sixes off 250 balls, earned him the Player of the Match award.
Mendis also became the joint-third fastest player to score 1,000 runs in Men’s Tests, matching Sir Don Bradman’s record of reaching the milestone in just 13 innings.
“Winning two ICC Player of the Month Awards in 2024, along with being named the ICC Emerging Men’s Cricketer of the Year, brings me immense joy and pride. These accolades reflect the hard work and dedication I’ve put into my game, supported by my coaches, teammates, family, and friends,” Mendis said. “Playing international cricket has been a childhood dream, and showcasing my skills at this level is an honor.”
Looking ahead, Mendis aims to build on his early success and continue striving for excellence in the sport. He also acknowledged the exceptional talent of his fellow nominees — Gus, Shamar, and Saim.
