In a remarkable celebration of cricketing excellence, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) recognized the outstanding performances of its top cricketers during the annual ‘Naman Awards’ held in Mumbai. Star fast bowler Jasprit Bumrah and renowned opener Smriti Mandhana received the prestigious titles of Best Male and Female Cricketer of the Year, respectively. This acknowledgment not only highlights their incredible contributions to Indian cricket during the 2023-24 season but also emphasizes the growing recognition of women’s cricket in the country. The awards also featured special honors for cricket legends like Sachin Tendulkar and Ravichandran Ashwin, underscoring the depth of talent and commitment within Indian cricket.
Bumrah and Mandhana: The Best Cricketers of the Year
Established in 2007, the BCCI Best Men’s Cricketer Award honors exceptional talent in Indian cricket, named after legendary cricketer Polly Umrigar. The inaugural award was presented to the batting maestro Sachin Tendulkar. On February 1, 2025, Jasprit Bumrah received the prestigious Polly Umrigar Award in recognition of his stellar performances in the One Day World Cup, T20 World Cup, and Test cricket throughout the 2023-24 season. This marks Bumrah’s second victory of this award, having previously won it for the 2018-19 season.
Similarly, the Best Female International Cricketer award was clinched by Smriti Mandhana for the fourth time in her career. Her consistency and skill have made her a pivotal player for the Indian women’s cricket team. Mandhana had previously won this esteemed award in 2017-18, and again in 2020-21 and 2021-22. Additionally, every player from the team that triumphed in the T20 World Cup was provided with a personalized ring sponsored by BCCI’s Dream Eleven.
Special Recognitions: Sachin and Ashwin
In a touching tribute to his contributions to Indian cricket, Ravichandran Ashwin, who announced his retirement from international cricket following the historic Brisbane Test against Australia, received a special award acknowledging his remarkable journey. This recognition serves as a testament to Ashwin’s impact on the game as a premier spin bowler and all-rounder.
Furthermore, the illustrious Colonel CK Nayudu Lifetime Achievement Award was presented to Sachin Tendulkar. This honor was bestowed by Jay Shah, the former BCCI Secretary and current ICC Chairman. Tendulkar’s unparalleled legacy in cricket continues to inspire generations, and this award further cements his status as one of the greatest players in the history of the sport.
In conclusion, the BCCI’s Naman Awards have not only celebrated the achievements of individual players like Jasprit Bumrah and Smriti Mandhana but have also highlighted the growth and significance of cricket in India. As the country continues to nurture its talent, the future looks bright for both men’s and women’s cricket alike. With the support of organizations like BCCI, we can expect to see more remarkable performances in the years to come.