South Africa’s off-spinner Simon Harmer has been crowned 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 recognises Harmer’s pivotal role in South Africa’s historic Test series triumph on Indian soil, a feat that had eluded the Proteas for a quarter of a century.
Taijul Islam enjoyed an outstanding November, particularly in Bangladesh’s two-Test series against Ireland. The left-arm spinner claimed 13 wickets across the matches, continuing his consistent excellence in the longest format. During the same spell, Taijul surpassed Shakib Al Hasan to become Bangladesh’s highest wicket-taker in Test cricket, a landmark achievement that further underlined his importance to the national side. These performances earned him a place on the ICC’s shortlist for the monthly award, raising hopes of a significant individual honour.
However, the accolade ultimately went to Harmer, whose impact in South Africa’s emphatic 2–0 series victory over India proved decisive. At the age of 36, Harmer delivered a masterclass in spin bowling, exploiting Indian conditions with intelligence and control. He captured 17 wickets in the two-match series at an exceptional average of 8.94, playing a central role in South Africa’s clean sweep. The series win was South Africa’s first Test series victory in India in 25 years, making Harmer’s contribution all the more significant.
Harmer’s success also extended a notable trend, as South African cricketers secured the ICC Men’s Player of the Month award for the second consecutive month. In October, the honour had gone to all-rounder Senuran Muthusamy, highlighting the depth and momentum within the Proteas’ Test squad.
Pakistan all-rounder Mohammad Nawaz was the third nominee for the men’s award, recognised for his steady performances, though he ultimately finished behind Harmer and Taijul in the voting.
In the women’s category, India’s Shefali Verma was named ICC Women’s Player of the Month for November. The dynamic opener played a decisive role in India’s World Cup triumph, particularly in the final against South Africa, where she scored a composed and commanding 87 off 78 balls. Drafted into the World Cup squad following an injury to Pratika Rawal, Shefali seized her opportunity and emerged as one of the tournament’s defining figures. She finished ahead of Thailand’s Thipatcha Putthawong and UAE’s Esha Oza to claim the honour.
ICC Player of the Month – November: Key Performances
| Category | Player | Country | Key Achievement |
|---|---|---|---|
| Men | Simon Harmer | South Africa | 17 wickets vs India in 2 Tests (avg 8.94) |
| Men (Nominee) | Taijul Islam | Bangladesh | 13 wickets vs Ireland; Bangladesh’s leading Test wicket-taker |
| Men (Nominee) | Mohammad Nawaz | Pakistan | Consistent all-round performances |
| Women | Shefali Verma | India | 87 off 78 balls in World Cup final |
While Taijul Islam narrowly missed out on the monthly crown, his performances and records continue to affirm his status as one of Bangladesh’s most dependable Test bowlers. Harmer’s triumph, meanwhile, stands as a testament to experience, perseverance and the enduring value of quality spin bowling at the highest level.