by Fakir Hassen/IANS

Johannesburg, May 23: Rohit Sharma has been named the winner of the Citi Under-23 Success of the Tournament in the Indian Premier League (IPL), which concludes Sunday.

A three-member committee comprising former Indian captains and members of the IPL Governing Council Sunil Gavaskar, Ravi Shastri and Mansur Ali Khan Pataudi adjudicated the contest.

They reached an unanimous decision that Sharma has been the best cricketer in the Under-23 category in the IPL.

Sharma, who won Rs.1 million for the award, scored 333 runs at an average of 27.75, at a strike rate of 119. He has also taken 11 wickets at an average of 11.45.

Sharma was delighted to be named the winner.

"It is a great honour to be named the Citi Under-23 Success of the League. I am very pleased with my form in South Africa, it has been a fantastic competition and I have really enjoyed it. To be recognised for my achievements by three of the living legends of Indian cricket is a great thrill for me," he said.

IPL Chairman and Commissioner Lalit Modi also lauded Sharma's performance. "His performances have helped light up the DLF IPL. He is without doubt one of the best young cricketers in the world, and he has a very exciting future with both Deccan Chargers and India," he said.

N. Rajashekaran, Country Business Manager, Global Business Group, Citi India said: "At Citi, we take great pride in promoting young and upcoming talent and contributing towards their coaching, mentoring and training.

"The DLF IPL is an excellent springboard for young players to showcase their cricketing prowess. We hope that (Sharma) will make both his country and his fans across the globe proud in the years to come."