Liam Dawson and Kathryn Bryce win top honors at the PCA Awards 2024, being named Men’s and Women’s Players of the Year for their outstanding performances in cricket.
Dawson and Bryce Claim Top Honors at PCA Awards
Hampshire’s Liam Dawson and Scotland’s Kathryn Bryce have both been awarded the prestigious titles of Men’s and Women’s Player of the Year at the 2024 Professional Cricket Association (PCA) Awards. Their remarkable achievements this season have not only earned them accolades but have also solidified their places in cricket history.
Outstanding Seasons for Both Players
Dawson and Bryce have both enjoyed phenomenal seasons, culminating in a total of four awards each. Dawson excelled with an impressive tally of 71 wickets and 1,280 runs across all formats. His performance played a pivotal role in Hampshire finishing second in the County Championship Division One and reaching the quarter-finals of the One-Day Cup.
In contrast, Bryce showcased her all-around skills by amassing 1,650 runs and claiming 51 wickets. Her standout performance as the leading run-scorer in the Charlotte Edwards Cup helped her team, The Blaze, secure the trophy. Additionally, she led Scotland to their first-ever Women’s T20 World Cup qualification, which will take place in the United Arab Emirates later this month.
A Testament to Recognition by Peers
Bryce expressed her gratitude, saying, “It’s a massive honor to win this trophy, knowing that it’s been voted for by fellow players. This is a year I will remember for a long time.” Her achievement is particularly significant as she becomes the first non-Englishwoman to win this award, joining the ranks of previous winners like Tammy Beaumont and Nat Sciver-Brunt.
Dawson, a 34-year-old all-rounder, reflected on his accolades with humility. “I was very surprised but delighted; it’s a real highlight of my career,” he shared. “Knowing that the award is voted for by fellow players makes it even more special.” He has already been recognized as the PCA Men’s Domestic Overall Most Valuable Player (MVP) and County Championship Player of the Year, further cementing his status in the sport.
Notable Awards and Recognitions
In addition to the top honors for Dawson and Bryce, the PCA Awards highlighted several other outstanding players. England wicketkeeper Jamie Smith, at just 24 years old, was named PCA Men’s Young Player of the Year. Meanwhile, 20-year-old Ryana MacDonald-Gay from South East Stars took home the Women’s Young Player of the Year award.
The PCA also recognized Matthew Maynard for his Outstanding Contribution to the game and presented the ECB Special Merit Award to James Anderson, who announced his retirement from Test cricket in July.
Here’s a breakdown of the PCA Awards winners for 2024:
- PCA Men’s Player of the Year: Liam Dawson
- PCA Women’s Player of the Year: Kathryn Bryce
- PCA Men’s Young Player of the Year: Jamie Smith
- PCA Women’s Young Player of the Year: Ryana MacDonald-Gay
- PCA Outstanding Contribution Award: Matthew Maynard
- Rado Recognition Award: Harry Brook and Lauren Bell
- ECB Special Merit: James Anderson
- PCA Umpire of the Year – Men’s Game: Neil Bainton
- PCA Umpire of the Year – Women’s Game: Anna Harris
The PCA Awards have once again celebrated the incredible talent in cricket, with Liam Dawson and Kathryn Bryce leading the way. Their achievements this season highlight their dedication and skill in the sport, setting a high bar for aspiring cricketers. As the cricketing season progresses, fans eagerly anticipate how these players will continue to shine on the field.