Shafali Verma Named ICC Women’s Player of the Month After World Cup Glory

ICC Honours Shafali Verma and Simon Harmer for November Performances

India opener Shafali Verma has been named the ICC Women’s Player of the Month for November , following her pivotal role in India’s historic triumph at the Women’s World Cup. Her performance in the final proved decisive as India lifted their maiden World Cup title on home soil , making the month one of the most memorable of her young international career. In the men’s category, South African spinner Simon Harmer received the award for his exceptional Test performances against India.

World Cup Final That Sealed the Award
Shafali’s recognition was anchored in her match-winning innings of 87 runs off 78 balls in the World Cup final against South Africa at Navi Mumbai. The knock, marked by controlled aggression and composure, was the highest score by an Indian opener in a Women’s World Cup final . Her innings set the platform for India’s total of 298 for 7, which eventually led to a commanding 52-run victory .

Resilience and Timely Comeback
The 21-year-old’s journey through the tournament highlighted her resilience. Brought back into the playing XI as a replacement for the injured Pratika Rawal in the semi-final against Australia, Shafali seized the opportunity. In the final, her 104-run opening stand with Smriti Mandhana provided early stability and momentum, reflecting maturity under pressure and reinforcing her importance to India’s batting line-up.

Recognition and Response
Shafali finished ahead of Thailand’s Thipatcha Putthawong and UAE’s Esha Oza to claim her first ICC Player of the Month award. She credited the honour to team effort and support from coaches and family, underlining the collective nature of India’s success.

Men’s Award: Simon Harmer
In the men’s category, Simon Harmer was recognised for his key role in South Africa’s 2–0 Test series win over India . Claiming 17 wickets at an average of 8.94 , he helped South Africa secure their first Test series victory in India in 25 years.

Exam-Focused Points

• Shafali Verma won ICC Women’s Player of the Month (November) .

• Her 87-run knock was the highest by an Indian opener in a World Cup final.

• India won their first Women’s World Cup on home soil .

• Simon Harmer won the men’s Player of the Month award for November.