TO CAP a remarkable rise in his playing career, Somerset’s young off spinner Shoaib Bashir claimed the main award at the Cricket Writers’ Club lunch which has taken place at the Kia Oval.

Bashir was the latest recipient of the NV Play Young Player of the Year award in recognition of his own impressive development.

In the summer of 2022 Bashir was spotted playing in an Under 18 match for Berkshire against Somerset at Wells by Matt Drakeley who grew up and played his cricket at Minehead. Drakeley recommended that the the club should invite him to play for the Second XI after which he was awarded a one year contract - so it has all happened very quickly for the youngster.

In December, 2023, he was picked to tour India following just six first-class appearances and ten wickets, but his potential was obvious to see and he didn’t let his supporters down. Two five-wicket hauls in three matches, allied to his ability and temperament, saw him installed as England’s No.1 spinner throughout the summer of 2024 and the selection paid off handsomely at Trent Bridge against the West Indies when he spun his team to victory with figures of 5 for 41, which at the age of 20 made him the youngest England Test cricketer to claim a five-wicket haul at home, beating Anderson’s record.

“Two years ago, I didn’t have a county,” Bashir said. “It’s been really special. With a lot of hard work, I’m thankful to be playing for my country. Long may it continue.

“It was very special, first time I’d played at Trent Bridge. For me to take that last wicket and seal the deal to make it 2-0 in the series, it was one of the highlights of my season.”

Cricket Writers’ Club chair Dean Wilson said: “Huge congratulations go to all our award winners, reflecting another terrific year of cricket for all members of the media to cover.“

“At a time of unprecedented change in the game on and off the field, there are precious few opportunities to pause and reflect and honour the efforts of those who bring so much joy.”

In his absence Shoaib’s award was collected by ex-Somerset favourite Vic Marks, a former Test spinner and now a sports journalist who is also President of the Cricket Writers Club.