Shafali Verma Wins ICC Player of the Month

India opener Shafali Verma has been crowned ICC Women’s Player of the Month for November following her decisive performance in the Women’s World Cup final. Her match-winning innings played a central role in India securing their maiden World Cup title on home soil, marking a defining moment in her young international career. In the men’s category, South Africa spinner Simon Harmer received the award for his outstanding bowling display against India.

World Cup Final That Defined the Award

Shafali’s selection was driven by her composed yet aggressive knock of 87 runs off 78 balls in the World Cup final against South Africa in Navi Mumbai. The innings was the highest score by an Indian opener in a Women’s World Cup final and laid the foundation for India’s total of 298 for 7. India went on to register a 52-run victory, clinching their first-ever Women’s World Cup title in front of a home crowd.

Comeback Story in a High-Pressure Tournament

The 21-year-old’s journey through the tournament was marked by resilience. Drafted into the playing XI as a replacement for the injured Pratika Rawal in the semi-final against Australia, Shafali made full use of her opportunity. Her 104-run opening partnership with Smriti Mandhana in the final provided stability and momentum, showcasing maturity under pressure and reaffirming her status as one of India’s most impactful batters.

Recognition and Reactions

Shafali edged out Thailand’s Thipatcha Putthawong and UAE’s Esha Oza to secure her first ICC Player of the Month honour. Reflecting on the achievement, she described the award as a team accomplishment and expressed gratitude to her teammates, coaches, and family. The recognition capped a memorable month that saw individual brilliance translate into historic team success.

What to Note for Exams?

• Shafali Verma won ICC Women’s Player of the Month for November.
• Her 87 in the World Cup final was the highest by an Indian opener in a final.
• India won their maiden Women’s World Cup on home soil.
• Simon Harmer won the men’s award for November.

Harmer’s Historic Test Series Performance

In the men’s category, Simon Harmer was honoured for his pivotal role in South Africa’s 2–0 Test series victory over India. The off-spinner claimed 17 wickets at an average of 8.94, guiding South Africa to their first Test series win in India in 25 years. His performance underlined the impact of disciplined spin bowling in subcontinental conditions and rounded off a month of landmark achievements in international cricket.