The September ICC Players of the Month award has gone to the Indian team of Abhishek Sharma and Smriti Mandhana. The 25-year-old Abhishek received recognition for his spectacular Asia Cup run, scoring 314 runs at an average of 44.85 and a scorching strike-rate of 200 in seven games.

At the conclusion of the Super Fours stage, he achieved a career-high 931 rating points in the ICC Men’s T20I Batting Rankings, the highest ever recorded in the format, and was named Player of the Tournament for his consistency and flair. To win the monthly award, the left-handed hitter defeated Brian Bennett of Zimbabwe and teammate Kuldeep Yadav.

It’s wonderful to receive this ICC honor, and I’m glad it coincides with several significant games that I was able to assist in winning. Being a member of a team that can win under the most trying circumstances makes me proud.

“Our recent success in T20Is is a testament to our exceptional team culture and upbeat outlook. I appreciate all of my teammates’ support and the team management’s direction. In an ICC statement released on Thursday, Abhishek added, “I am also grateful to the panel that chose me for this award.”

In the meantime, Smriti maintained her impressive run in international cricket by scoring 58, 117, and 125 during the home ODI series against Australia. In four ODIs during that time, the vice captain of India amassed 308 runs at a strike rate of 135.68 and an average of 77.

Smriti, who is now playing for India in the 2025 Women’s ODI World Cup, achieved the three-figure mark off just 50 deliveries in the third ODI against Australia, setting a new record for the fastest century by an Indian batswoman. She won the prize ahead of Sidra Amin of Pakistan and Tazmin Brits of South Africa.

Receiving the September 2025 ICC Women’s Player of the Month award is a true honor for me. This kind of acknowledgment motivates me to keep developing as a player. The honor also acknowledges the cooperation, faith, and hard work we all put forth as a team.

“I’ve always wanted to give it my all and help the squad win games. In the upcoming games, I am eager to take advantage of any chances that lead to India’s historic triumphs,” Smriti remarked.