The ODI format did not find a lot of significance in 2021. With the World Test Championship happening and the T20 World Cup scheduled in 2021, most teams did not involve themselves in ODIs. However, the ODI Super League was happening, and hence, we witnessed a handful of ODI matches. The context, though, will heighten in 2022. Teams will begin to focus on the 2023 World Cup. On that note, in this article, we take a look at the player who could win ICC Men’s ODI Player Of The Year 2021.
The nominations for ICC Men’s ODI Player Of The Year 2021
Over the years, the Men’s ODI cricketer of the Year award has received a lot of attention. However, in recent months, ODI cricket in itself is moving out of popularity. Barring the ICC events, there is almost no popularity as the entertainment factor is a bit lacking in the 50-over format.
In 2021, not many ODI games managed to be entertaining. Nevertheless, a few cricketers dished out consistent performances for their teams. Based on it, the four players who have been nominated for the award are Babar Azam, Shakib Al Hasan, Paul Stirling and Janneman Malan.
Who might win it?
All three of Janneman Malan, Babar Azam and Paul Stirling had an excellent year with the bat in ODIs. However, for his all-round contribution, Shakib Al Hasan could become Men’s ODI cricketer of the Year 2021.
It was a comeback for Shakib in 2021 after he completed serving his ban. He showed no rustiness as in the comeback competition itself, he won the Player of the Series award. That, too, it was against relatively tough opposition in the form of West Indies. He was the prime reason for Bangladesh to whitewash that series. Later, Shakib performed in a similar manner against Zimbabwe. Against the African Team, the all-rounder executed a few good performances under pressure. Hence, from an overall perspective, Shakib has a great chance of winning the honour.
