Essex star Jamie Porter up for cricketer of the year

Essex fast-bowler Jamie Porter is one of the contenders for Wisden’s cricketer of the year.

England World Cup winners Heather Knight, Natalie Sciver and Anya Shrubsole are also on the shortlist.

Previously, only two women, Claire Taylor and Charlotte Edwards, had been given the honour since it began in 1889.

West Indies batsman Shai Hope is the final star up for the prize

Porter took 75 wickets to lead Essex to the County Championship title last season.

He said: “The company I am in is of the highest calibre. The three women who were pivotal in helping England to the World Cup last summer, and Shai Hope, who has been brilliant across the year, and had an incredible series against England.

“I have had chance to reflect on 2017, and it was a special year for both the Club and myself. This is a great confidence boost, but I am not going to dwell too much on it now as I need to be ready for Yorkshire on Friday. I want to look ahead to another important season, and hopefully produce similar performances that will allow me to be in this position again next year.”