ICC November Crown Goes to Harmaar, Taijul Misses Out

South Africa’s seasoned off-spinner Simon Harmaar has been named the ICC Men’s Player of the Month for November, edging out Bangladesh’s Taijul Islam despite the latter’s remarkable achievements during the period. The award underlines South Africa’s growing dominance in red-ball cricket, with their players claiming the monthly accolade for a second consecutive month.

Taijul Islam had enjoyed a highly productive November, particularly in Bangladesh’s two-Test series against Ireland. The left-arm spinner captured 13 wickets across the matches, delivering probing spells that underpinned Bangladesh’s success. More significantly, Taijul surpassed Shakib Al Hasan to become Bangladesh’s highest wicket-taker in Test cricket, a landmark achievement that placed him firmly among the nominees for the ICC’s monthly honour. However, despite his consistency and historic feat, the award ultimately went elsewhere.

Harmaar’s selection was driven by an extraordinary performance in Indian conditions—traditionally regarded as a graveyard for visiting spinners. At the age of 36, he played a decisive role in South Africa’s historic Test series triumph in India, their first in 25 years. South Africa swept the two-match series 2–0, with Harmaar dismantling India’s formidable batting line-up. He claimed 17 wickets at a stunning average of just 8.94, consistently applying pressure and turning matches decisively in his side’s favour.

This recognition follows October’s ICC Men’s Player of the Month award, which was won by South African all-rounder Senuran Muthusamy, highlighting the depth and momentum within South Africa’s Test squad. Pakistani all-rounder Mohammad Nawaz was the third nominee for November, acknowledged for his all-round contributions but ultimately finishing behind the two specialist spinners.

In the women’s category, India’s Shefali Verma was crowned ICC Women’s Player of the Month for November. Shefali outperformed Thailand’s Thipatcha Putthawong and UAE’s Esha Oza, earning acclaim for her match-winning display in the ICC Women’s ODI World Cup final. Drafted into the World Cup squad following Pratika Rawal’s injury, Shefali seized her opportunity with composure and flair, scoring a vital 87 off 78 balls against South Africa in the final. Her innings proved instrumental in guiding India to the world title, cementing her status as one of the game’s brightest young stars.

ICC Men’s Player of the Month – November Nominees

ICC Women’s Player of the Month – November Nominees

While Taijul’s achievements will remain a source of pride for Bangladesh cricket, November ultimately belonged to Harmaar and Shefali—two players whose performances shaped historic victories on the world stage.