Kenya's Queentor Abel named 2023 Women’s Associate Cricketer of the Year

Kenya’s cricketer Queentor Abel has been awarded as ICC Women’s Associate Cricketer of the Year for 2023.

The announcement, made by the International Cricket Council, follows her exceptional year highlighted by consistent performances in various tournaments that established her as a key player for the Kenyan women’s cricket team.

Her contributions played a pivotal role in Kenya’s triumph at the Women’s T20 World Cup Africa Regional Division Two Qualifier, followed by a strong campaign in the Division One tournament held in Uganda.

Abel’s stellar performance was recognized as she was named the Player of the Tournament in the Division Two competition in Botswana.

Amassing an impressive 238 runs in five innings and claiming 12 wickets at a remarkable average of 2.84, Abel’s all-round brilliance was a major factor in Kenya’s success.

In the subsequent Division One tournament, Abel continued her stellar form, capturing six wickets at an average of 6.83.

Additionally, her impactful contributions with the bat further solidified her reputation as a valuable asset for the team.

With that feat, she now joins compatriot Thomas Odoyo (2007) in the exclusive club of Kenyan players to win either the Men’s or Women’s Associate accolade.

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“Winning the ICC Women’s Associate Cricketer of the Year is a profound honor, representing the culmination of relentless dedication to the sport,” Abel was quoted as saying. “This recognition is not only a personal triumph but a testament to the collective efforts of my teammates, coaches, Pirates Cricket Club, and not forgetting my fans out there.

“This accolade fuels my passion for the game and reinforces the positive strides made in promoting women’s cricket globally.

“As a recipient, I feel a responsibility to inspire aspiring players and contribute to the continued growth of women’s cricket. This award is a source of immense pride and motivation to keep pushing boundaries in my cricketing journey.”

Abel is also the only Associate player, male or female, to have amassed over 1000 runs and taken 50 or more wickets in T20 Internationals.

This remarkable feat highlights her all-round excellence and places her in a league of her own among Associate cricketers.

Additional reporting by ICC.