After their outstanding performances in the Asia Cup and women’s ODI series against Australia, respectively, star India openers Abhishek Sharma and Smriti Mandhana were named the ICC Players of the Month for September on Thursday.
During that time, Abhishek amassed 314 runs at an average of 44.85 and an exceptional strike-rate of 200 in seven games.
In addition to earning the greatest rating points ever in the T20I batting rankings, the 25-year-old was named the Asia Cup’s player of the tournament.
Abhishek won ahead of team-mate Kuldeep Yadav and Zimbabwe’s Brian Bennett.
“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.
On the other hand, Mandhana scored 58, 117, and 125 runs in the three games of the home ODI series against Australia.
In four ODIs during that time, the vice-captain of the Indian women’s side amassed 308 runs at a strike rate of 135.68 and an average of 77.
Mandhana, who is now playing for India in the ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup 2025, achieved the three-figure mark off just 50 deliveries in the third match of the Australia series, setting a new record for the fastest century by an Indian batter.
Sidra Amin of Pakistan and Tazmin Brits of South Africa were the other candidates for the prize.
“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.
