The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) will carry out its Annual Awards function in Hyderabad on January 23 in Hyderabad, TOI reported.

According to the report, the function will be held ahead of the opening Test between India and England, due to start on January 25 in Hyderabad, and players of both teams will attend it.

This will be the BCCI's first Annual Awards function in four years, with COVID pandemic causing an extensive break.

“This prestigious event serves as a platform to recognize and honour the outstanding achievements of the best cricketers in India. The BCCI Annual Awards hold a special place in our hearts, as they symbolize excellence, dedication, and passion for our wonderful sport,” BCCI secretary Jay Shah wrote in a communication to the board’s Apex Council members, as quoted by the newspaper.

"I believe that your participation will not only be a testament to your support for Indian cricket, but also an acknowledgement of the tremendous contributions made by our cricketing heroes and to the promise shown by young achievers. Please accept our gratitude for your continuous support to Indian cricket," he further stated.

The last BCCI Annual awards function was held on January 13, 2020 in Mumbai, just two months before the COVID-19 pandemic took the entire world by storm.

Back then, ace fast bowler Jasprit Bumrah had bagged the 'Polly Umrigar Award' for the best international cricketer while leg-spinner Poonam Yadav had won the same honour in the women's category.

Former opener Krishnamachari Srikkanth was bestowed with the CK Nayudu Lifetime Achievement award whereas former India skipper Anjum Chopra won this honour in the women's section.

(With TOI Inputs)