India opener Shafali Verma has been named the ICC Women’s Player of the Month for November following her decisive performance in the Women’s World Cup final against South Africa in Navi Mumbai.
The 21-year-old played a crucial knock of 87 off 78 balls, the highest score by an Indian opener in a Women’s World Cup final, helping India post a commanding 298 for seven before securing a 52-run victory to lift their maiden World Cup title.
Strong opening partnership
Shafali, who came into the side as a replacement for the injured Pratika Rawal in the semi-final against Australia, shared a 104-run opening stand with Smriti Mandhana to lay the foundation for India’s imposing total in the final.
Her contribution proved vital as India dominated the title clash in front of a home crowd.
First Player of the Month honour
Shafali beat Thailand’s Thipatcha Putthawong and UAE’s Esha Oza to claim her first ICC Player of the Month award.
Reflecting on the achievement, Shafali said her first World Cup experience did not go as planned initially but ended in the best possible way. She credited her teammates, coaches, family and support system, emphasising that success and recognition belong to the team as a whole.
Men’s award goes to Simon Harmer
South Africa spinner Simon Harmer claimed the men’s Player of the Month award for November after an outstanding Test series against India.
The 36-year-old picked up 17 wickets across two matches as South Africa sealed their first Test series win in India in 25 years. Harmer finished the series with an average of 8.94 and an economy rate of 1.91.
Harmer said representing his country remains his biggest motivation and dedicated the award to his teammates, coaches and family for their continued support.
Discussion about this post