Gill equals Hayley Matthews’ record with fifth award; Shafali recognised for Asia Cup and Asian Games heroics
India captain Shubman Gill and opener Shafali Verma were on Tuesday, October 13, named the ICC Men’s and Women’s Players of the Month, respectively, following their impressive performances in international cricket.
Gill secured the men’s award for a record-equalling fifth time after an outstanding showing in the ODI series against the West Indies, while Shafali earned the women’s honour for her contributions to India’s triumphs at the Women’s Asia Cup and the Asian Games.
The 27-year-old Gill equalled West Indies captain Hayley Matthews’ record of five ICC Player of the Month awards. He had previously won the men’s award in January and September 2023, and February and July 2025.
Gill’s standout performance during the West Indies ODI series included a superb 110 in the first match in Thiruvananthapuram.
“It feels fantastic to win my fifth ICC Player of the Month award, and I am grateful to the panel for this honour,” Gill said.
Shafali, meanwhile, continued her impressive run in major tournaments to claim the women’s award. She had previously won the honour in November 2025 following her match-winning performance in the World Cup final against South Africa in Navi Mumbai.
The aggressive opener was India’s highest run-scorer during the Women’s Asia Cup, accumulating 360 runs at a strike rate of 184.61. She also contributed with the ball, taking six wickets during the period.
At the Asian Games, Shafali delivered in crucial matches, scoring an unbeaten 100 against Bangladesh in the semi-final before making 48 in the final against Sri Lanka.
Her performances across the two tournaments underlined her value as a match-winner for India, combining explosive batting with useful contributions with the ball.
The latest awards recognise the impact of two of India’s leading international cricketers, with Gill extending his record-equalling tally and Shafali adding another individual honour to her growing list of achievements.
