Craig Overton and Sophie Luff have secured the premier accolades at the Professional Cricketers’ Association awards, recognising outstanding performances across the domestic circuit.
Overton, a 32-year-old all-rounder, was voted men’s player of the year after a remarkable season where he scored three first-class hundreds. Despite averaging under 20 with the ball in the County Championship, his batting prowess helped Somerset push for a first Championship title before they fell short, and guided the side to the T20 Blast semi-finals.
The Somerset captain beat fellow nominees Joe Clarke, George Hill, and Dan Lawrence to the top prize. His form has reignited speculation about a return to the England setup, potentially filling the gap left by Ben Stokes, four years after Overton earned his final Test cap.
Reflecting on the win, Overton said: “It’s a phenomenal feeling. To be chosen by your peers to win this award is very special, it means so much to me.” He added that he had found a mental rhythm that allowed him to perform consistently in matches played nearly every other day.
In the women’s category, Luff became the first player since 2021 to win player of the year without having appeared in international cricket. The 32-year-old exceeded 1,000 runs across all formats during the summer, including an average above 40 in the One-Day Cup. Her success also included a contribution to Trent Rockets’ victory in The Hundred.
Luff overcame competition from international stars Maia Bouchier, Sophia Dunkley, and Mady Villiers. She credited her success to a new role opening the batting, stating: “I’ve just showcased what I’m capable of… I’ve probably unlocked something to bring the best out of me as a player.”
The young player awards were claimed by pace bowler Sonny Baker and left-arm spinner Tilly Corteen-Coleman. Baker, 23, made his Test debut against New Zealand in June and played for both the Manchester Super Giants and Hampshire. Corteen-Coleman, 19, recently received a surprise call-up to the England T20 World Cup squad.
In special recognitions, former England captain Heather Knight received the Outstanding Contribution Award following her retirement from international cricket, while another former international, Tammy Beaumont, was honoured with a Special Merit Award.
Wait, Luff hasn’t played international cricket? That’s a refreshing change to see domestic stars winning top honors over caps.
Interesting that Overton won despite his bowling average. Does this signal England will call him up given Stokes’ recent form issues?
So pleased to see Sophie Luff recognized. Her opening impact was incredible this summer, truly deserving of the win.