CSA Awards 2024/25: Maharaj Dominates as Mlaba Steals the Show
The Cricket South Africa (CSA) Awards ceremony held in Johannesburg on Thursday night honoured the country’s top cricketing talent across all formats. It highlighted a mix of seasoned stars and emerging players. Among the big winners, Proteas spinner Keshav Maharaj took home the coveted Player of the Year award. He had an outstanding season that played a pivotal role in the nation’s World Test Championship success.
Keshav Maharaj Crowned Player of the Year
Maharaj’s consistent brilliance, especially in Test cricket, was on full display throughout the season. His remarkable performance in the World Test Championship final at Lord’s against Australia was impressive. Along with 40 Test wickets at an average of 20.57, he solidified his place at the top. Beyond Tests, Maharaj contributed significantly in limited overs. He added 14 wickets in T20s and impressed in the few ODIs he played. This marked his second time winning the Men’s Player of the Year in three seasons.
Temba Bavuma Shines on Home Soil
Proteas captain Temba Bavuma was also a standout figure. He scooped the Test Player of the Year award and the SA Fans’ Player of the Year title. His leadership and performances in the longest format earned him widespread acclaim. Meanwhile, pace spearhead Kagiso Rabada was recognised by his fellow players. He received the Men’s Players’ Player of the Year award for his consistent impact.
White-Ball Specialists and Rising Stars
In the limited-overs categories, Heinrich Klaasen, who recently retired, was named Men’s ODI Player of the Year for his exceptional 50-over performances. Anrich Nortje was honoured as the Men’s T20I Player of the Year. He showcased his pace and wicket-taking prowess. The International Men’s Newcomer of the Year went to Ottniel Baartman, signalling the arrival of fresh talent.
Women’s Cricket Dominated by Nonkululeko Mlaba
The night belonged equally to the women’s game, with Nonkululeko Mlaba emerging as the star of the evening. The left-arm spinner clinched four prestigious awards: SA Women’s Player of the Year, Women’s Players’ Player of the Year, Women’s T20I Player of the Year, and the Women’s Best Delivery Award. Her consistent bowling across formats was vital for the Proteas Women. This was highlighted by her maiden 10-wicket haul in Test cricket and her record-breaking wicket tally at the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup. She took 16 wickets in T20Is at an average of 18.62 and 15 ODI wickets at 22. Her achievements underline her all-format value.
Other Female Standouts
Ayanda Hlubi earned the International Women’s Newcomer of the Year award. All-rounder Annerie Dercksen was named Women’s ODI Player of the Year. The domestic scene saw Kayla Reyneke (T20 Player of the Season) and Suné Luus (50-over Player of the Season) also recognised for their contributions.
Domestic and Special Awards
The awards extended beyond international cricket. They recognised outstanding domestic performances and coaching excellence. Additionally, notable bowling deliveries that caught the eye were awarded.
Full List of CSA Proteas Awards 2024/25 Winners
Men
- International Newcomer of the Year: Ottniel Baartman
- T20 International Player of the Year: Anrich Nortje
- ODI Player of the Year: Heinrich Klaasen
- Test Player of the Year: Temba Bavuma
- Players’ Player of the Year: Kagiso Rabada
- SA Player of the Year: Keshav Maharaj
Women
- International Newcomer of the Year: Ayanda Hlubi
- T20 International Player of the Year: Nonkululeko Mlaba
- ODI Player of the Year: Annerie Dercksen
- Players’ Player of the Year: Nonkululeko Mlaba
- SA Player of the Year: Nonkululeko Mlaba
Other Categories
- Men’s Best Delivery Fuelled by KFC: Nandre Burger to Mikyle Louis – WI vs SA 2nd Test (15–17 August, WI 1st innings 1.6 overs)
- Women’s Best Delivery Fuelled by KFC: Nonkululeko Mlaba to Sobhana Mostary – ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2024
Celebrating the Future of Cricket in the Country
The CSA Awards night not only recognised the best performers. It also showcased the emerging talent ready to carry the country’s cricket forward. From seasoned champions like Maharaj and Bavuma to rising stars such as Baartman and Mlaba. The awards encapsulated the passion and skill driving cricket in the country today.
This blend of international stars, domestic achievers, and young prospects ensures the game continues to flourish at every level. It promises exciting times ahead for fans and players alike.
Related article: CSA Awards 2025: Full List of Nominees Featuring Rabada, Bavuma, and Mlaba
