“I was just hoping to make my Test debut for England, and to have the summer I’ve had, it’s a huge honor and to get this award at the end tops it all,” Atkinson said.
“My debut, obviously taking 12 wickets, was very special, and playing in Jimmy Anderson’s last Test was a huge honour. Probably my favorite moment was that century against Sri Lanka.”
Bashir has gone from virtual unknown to England’s first-choice spinner in the last 12 months, claiming three Test five-fors, including a winning spoils in the second Test against the West Indies at Trent Bridge. He picked up the prestigious CWC award for under-21 players earlier in the summer.
“Two years ago I didn’t have a county,” Bashir said. “It’s been really special. With a lot of hard work, I’m grateful to be able to play for my country. Long may this continue.”
“It was very special, the first time I played at Trent Bridge. For me, taking that last wicket and sealing the deal to make it 2-0 in the series, was one of the highlights of my season.”
Other winners of the CWC awards included England’s Physically Disabled opening batsman Brendon Parr, who received the Disabled Cricketer of the Year award from the Lord’s Taverners charity.
James Anderson and the cast of Tailenders took the Peter Smith Award for outstanding presentation of cricket to the public, and Derek Hodgson’s cricket Book of the Year was won by David Kynaston and Harry Ricketts for
Richie Benaud Blue Suede Shoes.
cricket Writers’ Club president Dean Wilson said: “A huge congratulations to all our award winners, reflecting another fantastic year of cricket for all members of the media to cover.
“At a time of unprecedented change to the game on and off the field, there are too few opportunities to pause, reflect and honor the efforts of those who bring so much joy.
“Whether it’s the skill and cunning of Sophie Ecclestone and Shoaib Bashir, or the excellence of Gus Atkinson or Brendon Parr, there has been much to admire. Long may this continue.”
