Shubman Gill claims ICC player of the month award

The International Cricket Council announced the awards on Tuesday, recognising two Indian stars whose performances helped their teams secure major victories across international competitions.

Gill edged out fellow nominees Abhishek Sharma and Zimbabwe captain Sikandar Raza after producing a stunning display in India’s opening two One-Day International matches against the West Indies.

The Indian captain accumulated 333 runs across the two games, beginning with a commanding 110 off 108 balls in the opening ODI on September 27. India chased down the West Indies’ 295 for seven, reaching the target with eight wickets in hand.

Gill raised the bar even higher in the second match in Guwahati three days later. Responding to the visitors’ record-breaking 405 for seven, he smashed an unbeaten 223 off just 133 deliveries, striking 26 fours and eight sixes.

His double century came off 117 balls, making it the fastest in ODI history, while his hundred off 62 deliveries set a record for the fastest ODI century by an Indian captain.

Gill also shared a remarkable 255-run opening partnership with Rohit Sharma, who contributed 101 from 75 balls. India completed the chase with eight wickets remaining and 39 balls to spare, recording the second-highest successful run chase in ODI cricket.

Although the West Indies won the third match on October 3, India secured the series 2-1.

The latest recognition extends Gill’s record as the men’s player with the most ICC monthly awards. He previously won the honour in January and September 2023, February 2025 and July 2025.

“It feels fantastic to win my fifth ICC Player of the Month award,” Gill said, thanking the selection panel and praising the support of home fans.

Meanwhile, Shafali claimed the women’s award after an equally impressive month, helping India triumph at the Asia Cup and the Asian Games.

The 22-year-old scored 360 runs in seven T20 internationals at an average of 72 and a strike rate of 184.61. She also took six wickets with her off-spin.

Shafali finished as the Asia Cup’s leading run-scorer with 236 runs in five innings, including half-centuries in both the semi-final against Bangladesh and the final against Sri Lanka.

She continued her remarkable form at the Asian Games, scoring 188 runs in three innings. Her unbeaten 40 against Japan and a blistering 100 off 49 balls against Bangladesh helped India reach the gold-medal match.

It is Shafali’s second monthly award, following her first win in November 2025.

Both players now have further milestones in sight as India prepare for upcoming international assignments and major ICC tournaments.