Shafali Verma ICC Player of the Month after heroic World Cup final display
India’s opening batswoman Shafali Verma capped a dream World Cup campaign by winning the ICC Women’s Player of the Month award following her match-defining performance in the 2025 Women’s World Cup final against South Africa.
Shafali was called up for the knockout phase in place of Pratika Rawal and made the chances count in an emphatic manner. She played the final in Navi Mumbai on 2 November and produced a performance that proved decisive in India winning their first Women’s World Cup title on home soil.
Match-winning all-round display in the final
Opening the batting, Shafali laid a strong platform with a controlled yet aggressive knock of 87 runs, helping India post a formidable total of 299 runs. When South Africa threatened a stable partnership during the chase, Shafali stepped up again – this time with the ball.
Using her part-time commitment effectively, she broke the crucial stand and finished with impressive figures of 2 for 36, playing a key role in turning the momentum back in India’s favour. Her all-round impact earned her the Player of the Match award in the final.
Shafali reflects on her journey and achievement
Shafali expressed her gratitude, admitting that her first World Cup experience initially did not go as expected, but the ending exceeded all her expectations.
She thanked her teammates, coaches and family for their continued support and emphasized that the award was a collective achievement and not an individual one. Winning the World Cup in front of her home crowd made the moment even more special, she said.
Simon Harmer carries ICC Men’s Player of the Month in his pocket
On the men’s side, South African spinner Simon Harmer was named the ICC Men’s Player of the Month for November after a sensational Test series in India.
The experienced off-spinner played an important role in the two-match series, finishing with a remarkable 17 wickets against a strong Indian batting line-up led by Shubman Gill. His consistency and match-winning spells set him apart from fellow nominees Taijul Islam and Mohammad Nawaz.
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Harmer Credits Team and Family for Success
Harmer described the recognition as a privilege and highlighted how playing for South Africa remains the ultimate honor of his career. He dedicated the award to his teammates, coaching staff and family and recognized their sacrifices and support.
The spinner also expressed optimism about his contribution to many more successful campaigns with the Proteas, highlighting the strong team culture within the squad.
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