One Pakistan player nominated for ICC Men's Player of the Month for October 2024

The ICC has revealed the nominees for the October 2024 Men’s Player of the Month award, spotlighting Pakistan’s Noman Ali, alongside South Africa's Kagiso Rabada and New Zealand’s Mitchell Santner. This recognition follows their stellar performances in recent Test series, showcasing their skill and impact.

Noman Ali (Pakistan)

At 38, Noman Ali led Pakistan's comeback against England with a remarkable 20-wicket haul at an average of 13.85 across the second and third Tests. His game-changing spells were crucial as Pakistan overturned their opening defeat to clinch the series. Noman's standout moment came in the second Test, where he seized career-best figures of 8/46, helping Pakistan defend a 297-run target to secure their first home Test win since 2021.

In the third Test, Noman’s resilience extended beyond bowling. Coming in at 177/7, he contributed a vital 45 runs, giving Pakistan a 77-run lead. With the ball, he wrapped up the match with a six-wicket haul, bowling England out for 112 and sealing Pakistan’s nine-wicket victory. His stellar efforts have earned him a place among the month’s top performers.

Kagiso Rabada (South Africa)

Rabada reclaimed his position atop the ICC Men’s Test Bowler Rankings with 14 wickets at an astounding average of 9.00 over two Tests in Bangladesh. In the first Test, he notched 9/72, including six wickets in the second innings, propelling South Africa to victory. He followed up with a remarkable 5/37 in the second Test, leading his side to a historic innings win and earning the Player of the Series title.

Mitchell Santner (New Zealand)

Despite playing only one Test, Santner’s contribution was instrumental in New Zealand’s historic series win over India. His impressive figures of 7/53 in the first innings and 6/104 in the fourth set up a comprehensive 103-run lead and ensured a memorable win. Santner finished with match figures of 13/157 and was awarded Player of the Match.

Each nominee has delivered outstanding performances in October, with their bowling heroics pushing the limits of Test cricket.