Former Bangladesh skipper Mushfiqur Rahim has clinched the ICC Men’s Player of the Month title for May for his standout performance in guiding Bangladesh to a historic Test series victory over Pakistan on home soil.
The experienced batsman outshone his teammate Taijul Islam and Nepalese all-rounder Dipendra Singh Airee to secure the award, marking his second win after initially claiming it in May 2021.
Mushfiqur played a crucial role in Bangladesh’s 2-0 Test series triumph, earning the Player of the Series accolade for amassing 235 runs at an impressive average of 63.25. The 39-year-old delivered a pivotal 71-run innings in the first Test in Dhaka and followed it up with a match-defining 137 in the second Test in Sylhet.
Having made his Test debut in 2005, Mushfiqur once again showcased his enduring worth to the national team with a series of significant contributions that paved the way for one of Bangladesh’s most memorable Test victories.
Expressing his gratitude, Mushfiqur stated, “It is a great privilege to be recognized as the ICC Player of the Month once again, especially for my Test cricket performances. My teammate Taijul also played a crucial role in our remarkable series win against Pakistan, a victory that will be cherished by all of us for a long time.”
“Our success has propelled us up the ICC World Test Championship rankings, adding even more significance to the team’s achievement. I am thankful to my teammates and support staff for their unwavering support, and I am eager to continue contributing to Bangladesh’s success in the upcoming months.”
In the women’s segment, England’s seam bowler Lauren Bell clinched the award following an impressive display in white-ball contests against India and New Zealand.
Bell emerged victorious over Pakistan’s Gull Feroza and New Zealand’s Maddy Green after a productive month where she claimed five wickets in three ODIs and eight wickets in four T20Is.
Expressing her joy, Bell remarked, “I am thrilled to receive this recognition. Performing well in front of home supporters is always enjoyable and immensely fulfilling. Representing England is a tremendous honor, and I am proud to be able to make a meaningful contribution to our team.”