Rizwan declared ICC Men’s T20I cricketer of the Year

|| CF DESK ||

The International Cricket Council (ICC) has announced Pakistan wicketkeeper batter Mohammad Rizwan as ICC Men’s cricketer of the Year for 2021.

Rizwan played a key role for Pakistan to reach the semis during the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2021, where he ended up as the third-highest run-scorer.

Rizwan hit 79 off 55 deliveries, hitting six fours and three sixes against arch-rival India as Pakistan galloped towards the target without losing a single wicket to seal a 10-wicket victory.

Rizwan gave credit for his award to the team management, his fellow cricketers and analysts.

"It is a pleasure to see Pakistan's name among the top teams of the world. Team Pakistan has a standing in [the top squads of] the world due to everyone's hard work," Rizwan said in a conversation with the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB).

The Pakistan wicket-keeper batter scored 1326 runs in 29 matches with an average of 73.66 and a strike-rate of 134.89 in a calendar year.

He also scored the maiden T20I century of his career against South Africa in Lahore early in the year and ended it continuing his form with a brilliant knock of 87 against West Indies in Karachi.

Rizwan defeated Jos Buttler, Wanindu Hasaranga and Mitchell Marsh to win the ICC’s prestigious award.