Mushfiqur wins ICC Player of the Month award for May

Former Bangladesh captain Mushfiqur Rahim has been named the ICC Men’s Player of the Month for May after playing a pivotal role in Bangladesh’s historic Test series sweep over Pakistan at home.

The veteran batter beat team-mate Taijul Islam and Nepal all-rounder Dipendra Singh Airee to the award, securing the honour for the second time in his career after first winning it in May 2021.

Mushfiqur was instrumental in Bangladesh’s 2-0 Test series victory, earning the Player of the Series award after scoring 235 runs at an average of 63.25. The 39-year-old struck a crucial 71 in the first innings of the opening Test in Dhaka before producing a match-defining 137 in the second Test in Sylhet.

Making his Test debut in 2005, Mushfiqur once again underlined his enduring value to the national side with a series of vital contributions that helped Bangladesh secure one of their most memorable Test triumphs.

“It is a great honour to be named the ICC Player of the Month once again, and I am especially pleased that this recognition has come for my performances in Test cricket,” Mushfiqur said.

“My team-mate Taijul also played a big part in our memorable series win over Pakistan, one which we will all cherish for long.

“Our victory has also helped us climb the ICC World Test Championship standings, making the achievement even more significant for the team. I am grateful to my team-mates and support staff for their support, and I look forward to contributing further to Bangladesh’s success in the months ahead.”

In the women’s category, England seamer Lauren Bell claimed the award after impressing in white-ball series against India and New Zealand.

Bell finished ahead of Pakistan’s Gull Feroza and New Zealand’s Maddy Green following a productive month in which she took five wickets in three ODIs and eight wickets in four T20Is.

“I’m delighted to win this award,” Bell said. “Performing well in front of home crowds is always fun and hugely satisfying. Playing for England is a huge honour and I am just proud to be able to contribute to our team.”