Gus Atkinson Named ICC Men's Player of the Month for July 2024

England quick Atkinson won ICC Player of the Month for his outstanding Test series debut. / Getty Images 

Gus Atkinson, the England seamer, has been named the ICC Men's Player of the Month for July 2024. 

Atkinson's exceptional performance in the West Indies Test series earned him this honor, marking a remarkable start to his Test career. He beat stiff competition from India all-rounder Washington Sundar and Scotland seamer Charlie Cassell to claim the title.

Atkinson expressed his gratitude, stating, 

"It is a real privilege to win the ICC Player of the Month! The start to my Test career has been unbelievable, and I never imagined achieving this level of success in my first series with England." 

He acknowledged the supportive environment created by coach Brendon McCullum and captain Ben Stokes.

The 26-year-old made a striking Test debut in James Anderson's farewell international match, claiming 12 wickets and earning the Player of the Match award. His performance included a five-for in each innings, resulting in impressive figures of 7/45 in the first innings. He continued to impress throughout the series, finishing as the leading wicket-taker with 22 dismissals and winning the Player of the Series award.

Atkinson's form was consistent across the series, with 10 more wickets taken in the remaining two Tests and valuable contributions with the bat. His performance in the series has set high expectations for the upcoming series against Sri Lanka.