Table of Contents
- ICC Players of the Month – September 2025
- Abhishek Sharma’s Asia Cup Masterclass
- Smriti Mandhana’s Century-Studded ODI Series
- Why Abhishek Pipped Kuldeep Yadav
- What These Awards Mean for Indian Cricket
- Sources
ICC Players of the Month – September 2025
In a proud moment for Indian cricket, both the men’s and women’s ICC Player of the Month awards for September 2025 have gone to Indian stars—Abhishek Sharma and Smriti Mandhana. The announcement by the International Cricket Council (ICC) highlights a rare double triumph that underscores India’s growing dominance across formats and genders.
Abhishek Sharma’s Asia Cup Masterclass
Left-handed dynamo Abhishek Sharma edged out seasoned campaigners—including wrist-spinner Kuldeep Yadav—to claim the men’s honour, thanks to a blistering performance in the Asia Cup 2025.
Across five matches, Abhishek amassed 314 runs at a staggering strike rate of 168, anchoring India’s top order with fearless strokeplay. His unbeaten 112 off just 58 balls against Sri Lanka was the tournament’s standout innings—packed with sixes over long-on and cover drives that left fielders rooted.
More than the numbers, it was his composure in high-pressure chases that caught selectors’ eyes. “He didn’t just score runs—he changed games,” said one ICC voting panelist.
Smriti Mandhana’s Century-Studded ODI Series
On the women’s side, Smriti Mandhana delivered one of the finest ODI performances of her career during India’s home series against Australia.
She piled up 308 runs in three matches, including two magnificent centuries (117 and 124*)—becoming only the second Indian woman after Mithali Raj to score back-to-back ODI tons. Her second-innings 124* in Vadodara, under scoreboard pressure, sealed a historic series win against the world champions.
Her elegant cover drives and calculated aggression redefined the opening role in women’s cricket, earning praise from global commentators and former players alike.
Why Abhishek Pipped Kuldeep Yadav
Kuldeep Yadav had a strong case—he took 12 wickets in the Asia Cup, including a 5-wicket haul against Pakistan. But the ICC panel leaned toward impact and consistency across matches.
“Abhishek provided the spark India needed at the top. In modern cricket, explosive starts often decide tournaments,” the panel noted. His ability to dominate from ball one gave India crucial momentum in shortened games—a key factor in tight Asia Cup conditions.
What These Awards Mean for Indian Cricket
This dual recognition isn’t just about individual glory—it signals a generational shift. Abhishek, just 24, represents the new wave of fearless Indian batters ready for global stages. Mandhana, meanwhile, continues to lead the charge in elevating women’s cricket’s visibility and competitiveness.
With the T20 World Cup and Women’s Championship cycle approaching, these awards serve as both validation and motivation.
As one fan tweeted: “When India wins both ICC monthly awards in the same month, you know the future is bright.”