Robinson wins England cricketer of the year award

Sportstar · 3 Nov 2026, 11:38 PM IST

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Two years in the wilderness gave way to a summer of rare wicket-taking, and with Melbourne’s landmark Test and two overseas tours ahead, the seamer’s rise shows no sign of slowing.

Ollie Robinson capped an remarkable return to international cricket on Tuesday by being named England cricketer of the year.

The seam bowler, 32, had spent more than two years out of favour with the England selectors before making a memorable comeback this year. In four Tests against New Zealand and Pakistan, he took 28 wickets at an average of just 9.32.

That impact earned him the vote of members at the Vitality Cricket Media Club Awards at Lord’s, where he claimed the trophy named after former England captain Bob Willis.

Robinson is set to play a major role in England’s upcoming red-ball schedule, which includes tours of South Africa and Bangladesh and the 150th anniversary Test against Australia in Melbourne.

“It’s a huge honour to receive this award. After spending such a long time away from the England side, to come back and have the summer I’ve had has been incredibly special,” Robinson said.

“There were certainly some tough moments along the way, which makes receiving recognition like this mean even more.

“I’ve absolutely loved being back playing for England and hopefully there’s plenty more to come.”

Middlesex seam bowler Naavya Sharma, who is currently with England Lions in the West Indies, won the young cricketer of the year award after a breakout season.

(With inputs from AFP)

Published on Nov 03, 2026