Overton, the men’s player of the year, had a stellar season across formats as Somerset just missed out on a first County Championship title and reached the semi-finals of the T20 Blast.
Luff becomes the first winner of the women’s player of the year award not to have played international cricket since 2021. As well as superb form in county cricket, the 32-year-old was part of the Trent Rockets team that won The Hundred.
Pace bowler Sonny Baker and left-arm spinner Tilly Corteen-Coleman won the two young player of the year awards.
All-rounder Overton, 32, scored three first-class hundreds and averaged less than 20 with the ball in the County Championship, delivering consistent and impactful performances throughout the grueling domestic summer. His contributions were vital for Somerset as they mounted a fierce challenge on multiple fronts, coming agonizingly close to securing what would have been a historic first-ever County Championship title, while also making a deep run into the knockout stages of the T20 Blast before bowing out in the semi-finals.
His exceptional domestic form has naturally reignited discussions and speculation regarding a potential recall to the England Test team. Observers have noted that his skill set and current productivity could make him a strong candidate to fill the vacancy left by star all-rounder Ben Stokes, four years after Overton won the last of his eight Test caps for his country.
To claim the prestigious men’s player of the year honor, Overton had to beat off a competitive field of shortlisted nominees, which included fellow high performers Joe Clarke, George Hill, and Dan Lawrence.
Reflecting on the achievement, Overton expressed his profound gratitude and satisfaction with how his season unfolded both physically and mentally.
"It’s a phenomenal feeling," said Overton. "To be chosen by your peers to win this award is very special, it means so much to me. I felt like I got in a groove where my body was in a good spot, not 100% because of the schedule, but mentally I felt like I was in a great spot to be able to go out and perform when games come along near enough every other day."
On the women’s side, Somerset captain Sophie Luff wrote her name into the history books by claiming the top women’s prize. Luff scored more than 1,000 runs across formats during a packed and demanding summer schedule, which included averaging in excess of 40 in the One-Day Cup, anchoring her team’s batting lineup with remarkable consistency and composure.
In addition to her exploits in county cricket, Luff enjoyed success on the franchise stage, featuring prominently as part of the Trent Rockets squad that ultimately triumphed to win The Hundred. Her leadership and tactical acumen on the field were matched by her prolific output with the bat, earning widespread respect across the domestic game.
Luff triumphed in the voting ahead of three established internationals on the final shortlist: Maia Bouchier, Sophia Dunkley, and Mady Villiers.
"I’ve always been a leader that wants to lead from the front, but I think people are seeing that play out in games now," said Luff. "I think this year I’ve just showcased what I’m capable of. I’ve had a new role at Somerset opening the batting and it’s safe to say it’s gone pretty well and I’ve probably unlocked something to bring the best out of me as a player. I’m so grateful to all my team-mates and coaches at Somerset that have supported me."
The awards also celebrated the rising stars of the English game, with the young player of the year honors going to fast bowler Sonny Baker and left-arm spinner Tilly Corteen-Coleman.
Baker, 23, enjoyed a breakthrough period that included making his Test debut against New Zealand at The Oval in June. Beyond his international milestones, Baker played a key role in the domestic and franchise landscape, featuring as part of the Manchester Super Giants team that won The Hundred and also representing the Hampshire side that reached the final of the T20 Blast.
Meanwhile, 19-year-old Corteen-Coleman caught the attention of selectors and pundits alike, earning a surprise inclusion in the England squad for the T20 World Cup following a series of impressive and mature displays with her left-arm spin.
The ceremony also paid tribute to stalwarts of the game who recently concluded their international careers. Former England captain Heather Knight was given the Outstanding Contribution Award following her international retirement, recognizing her immense leadership, longevity, and impact on the sport at the highest level.
Additionally, Tammy Beaumont, another prominent international retiree, was honored with a Special Merit Award for her stellar service and contributions to English cricket over a distinguished career.