Shubman Gill Creates History With Fifth ICC Player of the Month Award, Shafali Verma Completes India’s Double
News Mania Desk/ Piyal Chatterjee/ 13th October 2026

India captain Shubman Gill has made history by winning the ICC Men’s Player of the Month award for September 2026, securing the honour for a record fifth time. India also celebrated a double success as Shafali Verma won the corresponding women’s award, recognising her impressive performances during the month.
Gill edged out fellow Indian batter Abhishek Sharma to claim the men’s award. The recognition further strengthens his standing among international cricket’s leading performers and reflects his consistent contributions to India’s batting lineup.
Gill’s performances during India’s ODI series against the West Indies played a significant role in his selection. The right-handed batter demonstrated composure and consistency, helping India maintain their momentum in the 50-over format. His ability to anchor the innings while scoring at a steady pace made him a key figure in the team’s campaign.
The award adds another milestone to Gill’s international career. Winning the ICC Player of the Month honour five times places him in a distinguished position among cricketers recognised for their performances across different formats and international competitions.
Shafali’s selection ensured that India secured both the men’s and women’s awards for September. The Indian opener was recognised for her contributions during the Women’s Asia Cup and the Asian Games, where her performances helped underline her importance to the national side.
Shafali has emerged as an important attacking batter for India, known for her aggressive approach at the top of the order. Her ability to put opposition bowlers under pressure has made her a valuable member of the team, particularly in tournaments where strong starts can influence the outcome of matches. For Gill, the fifth award represents another significant achievement in his career, while Shafali’s honour provides further recognition of her contribution to Indian women’s cricket.