Nahid Rana (Bangladesh)Bangladesh’s rising pace sensation Nahid Rana headlines the April 2026 nominees after a match-winning display against New Zealand in the 50-over format.The young quick claimed eight wickets in just three ODIs at an impressive average of 16.75, while maintaining a tight economy rate of 4.46.His standout moment came in Mirpur in the second ODI, where he tore through the visitors' batting line-up with a superb five-wicket haul, returning figures of 5-32. He picked up one and two wickets in the first and third ODIs respectively as well.Rana’s efforts earned him Player of the Series honours as Bangladesh secured a memorable 2-1 ODI series victory.Jatinder Singh (Oman)Joining him is Oman’s dependable top-order batter and skipper Jatinder Singh, who enjoyed a prolific month in the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup League 2.Amassing 266 runs across five ODIs at an average of 53.20 and a strike rate above 115, Jatinder combined consistency with flair in Oman’s Cricket World Cup League 2 campaign.His campaign included a composed half-century against Scotland (51), but it was his explosive 130 off just 96 balls against Nepal in Kirtipur that stole the headlines.The knock was a national-record innings that showcased his ability to dominate attacks and anchor innings alike, as Oman beat Nepal and secured important League 2 points.Ajay Kumar (UAE)Rounding out the shortlist is UAE’s emerging bowling star Ajay Kumar, whose remarkable start to international cricket has turned heads.In just his first two ODIs, Ajay picked up nine wickets at a stunning average of 7.66, with an economy rate of 3.66.His performances included figures of 3-34 against Nepal and a sensational 6-35 versus Oman, immediately establishing him as a potent force in the UAE bowling attack.Though he featured in a T20I as well, it was his impact in Cricket World Cup League 2 that helped UAE gain important points that secured his nomination.
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