New Delhi: Star Indian openers Abhishek Sharma and Smriti Mandhana have won the ICC Player of the Month awards for September following their superior performances. Abhishek showcased a fabulous a fabulous performance with the bat in the recently-concluded Asia Cup 2025 while Mandhana produced brilliant performance in the women’s ODI series against Australia.
The dashing Indian batter scored 314 runs in the seven games in continental cup during the period at an average of of 44.85 and a impressive strike of 200. The 25-year-old was named as the player of the tournament in the marquee event and also achieved the highest rating points in the T20I batting rankings released post that. He won ahead of team-mate Kuldeep Yadav and Zimbabwe’s Brian Bennett.
Glad to win the award: Abhishek Sharma
After the announcement of the award, Abhishek said that he is very glad that he has been recognized for his hard work. He also commented on the Indian team calling it an outstanding side in the shortest format of cricket especially.
‘It feels great to win this ICC award and I am happy that it has come for some important matches that I could help win. I am proud to be part of a team that can pull off victories from the most difficult of situations. Our recent track record in T20Is reflects our outstanding team culture and positive mindset,’ Abhishek said.
Meanwhile, Mandhana in the other hand proved to be sensational in the home ODI series against Australia scoring 58, 117 and 125 in all the three matches. The Indian women’s team vice-captain scored 308 runs in four ODIs during the period at an average of 77 and a strike rate of 135.68.
A recognition like this pushes me to keep growing and evolving as a player. My aim has always been to deliver my best and win matches for the team,’ Mandhana said.
South Africa’s Tazmin Brits and Pakistan’s Sidra Amin were the others in the running for the award.
(With PTI inputs)