The International Cricket Council (ICC) recently unveiled the nominees for its Men’s Player of the Month award for September, with two prominent Indian cricketers making the final three-player shortlist. Explosive opener Abhishek Sharma and talented spinner Kuldeep Yadav are set to challenge Zimbabwe’s top-order batter Brian Bennett for this coveted accolade. Both Indian players were instrumental in their nation’s triumphant campaign in the Asia Cup 2025.
Abhishek Sharma continued his exceptional form throughout the season, building on his stellar displays at the Asia Cup. Over seven appearances, he accumulated an impressive 314 runs at an average of 44.86, boasting a remarkable strike rate of 200. His consistent and powerful hitting was key to India’s unbeaten run to the title. The 25-year-old also achieved the highest batting rating ever recorded in men’s T20 Internationals, reaching 931 points, solidifying his reputation as a burgeoning star in the format.
While Sharma dominated with the bat, Kuldeep Yadav emerged as India’s premier bowler. The 30-year-old left-arm wrist spinner concluded the tournament as the leading wicket-taker, bagging 17 scalps at an economical rate of 6.27. His standout performances included a brilliant 4/7 against the UAE at the tournament’s outset and a crucial 4/30 against fierce rivals Pakistan in the final. Kuldeep consistently claimed at least one wicket in each of India’s seven matches, proving indispensable to their success.
Zimbabwe’s Brian Bennett also left a significant mark with his batting prowess last month, scoring 497 runs in nine T20Is at an average of 55.22 and a strike rate of 165.66. His superb form was evident in the series against Sri Lanka and Namibia, and he was a star performer during the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup Africa Regional Final, where he notched scores of 72, 65, and 111 in his first three innings. Bennett’s contributions were vital in helping Zimbabwe secure their qualification spot for the 2026 T20 World Cup, co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka.
Ultimately, the ICC Men’s Player of the Month award for September will honor consistency, match-winning impact, and exceptional performances across T20 Internationals, with Abhishek Sharma and Kuldeep Yadav presenting a formidable challenge for India.