South Africa’s experienced spinner Simon Harmer was rewarded for an outstanding month as he was named the ICC Men’s Player of the Month for November 2025. His performance came during the Test series against India, where South Africa produced a remarkable clean sweep, winning the two-match series 2-0.
Harmer emerged as the key figure in this success, troubling Indian batters consistently and controlling games across both Tests. He finished the series with 17 wickets at an exceptional average of 8.94, underlining his dominance with the ball. His contributions were central to South Africa achieving their first Test series victory in India in 25 years, making the achievement even more special. This spell of excellence also marked the first time Harmer claimed the prestigious ICC monthly award, highlighting the global recognition of his efforts.
Reflecting on the honour, Harmer shared his emotions in an ICC statement, saying, “It’s a privilege to be named the ICC Men’s Player of the Month for November. Playing for my country is a dream come true and anything else that comes from it as a result is a bonus. I share this award with my teammates, coaches and support staff and dedicate it to my family who allow me to go out and live my dream, often having to leave them at home to do so.”
“It’s a privilege to be a part of the Proteas team and I hope to enjoy many more successful seasons with this remarkable group of people,”. He edged past Bangladesh spinner Taijul Islam and Pakistan all-rounder Mohammad Nawaz to clinch the award.
Shafali Verma’s Fairytale Comeback On The Biggest Stage
Indian opener Shafali Verma was named the ICC Women’s Player of the Month for November 2025 following a memorable performance in the Women’s World Cup final. Her journey during the tournament was far from straightforward, as she was initially left out of the squad before being brought in as a replacement for the injured Pratika Rawal during the knockout stages. Shafali made the opportunity count in the most important match, delivering a match-winning all-round display in the final against South Africa.
Batting at the top, she played a fluent knock of 87 runs off 78 balls, helping India post a strong total of 298/7. With the ball, she chipped in at crucial moments, dismissing key batters Sune Luus and Marizanne Kapp to finish with figures of 2/36 from seven overs. South Africa were eventually bowled out for 246, handing India a historic World Cup triumph at home.
Recognition, Rewards And Individual Honours
After the final, Shafali expressed her gratitude and joy, stating, “My first ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup experience didn’t go as I expected but it ended far better than I could have ever wished or imagined. I’m grateful that I could contribute to the team’s success in the Final and that I was able to be a part of making history in winning the World Cup for the first time and in front of a home crowd.”
“I’m truly honoured to be named the Women’s Player of the Month for November. I dedicate this award to my teammates, coaches, family and everyone who has supported my journey until now. We win and lose as a team, the same goes for this award,”. She was also deservedly named Player of the Match in the final, capping off a dream comeback with individual recognition.
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