ICC awards: two Pakistani players make it to “August Player of the Month” list

Muhammad Hamza Irshad

ISLAMABAD: In a thrilling announcement, the International Cricket Council (ICC) has unveiled the shortlists for the August Player of the Month awards, showcasing the brilliance of cricketers from around the world.

Men’s Player of the Month Nominees:

Babar Azam (Pakistan):

Babar Azam, Pakistan’s dynamic captain, continued his stellar run in August. His bat proved to be a force to reckon with, contributing pivotal knocks in Pakistan’s comprehensive series win over Afghanistan. His exceptional 151 in the Asia Cup opener against Nepal showcased his class as a cricketer. Having already claimed the ICC Men’s Cricketer of the Year award last year, Babar eyes a historic third ICC Men’s Player of the Month accolade.

Shadab Khan (Pakistan):

Shadab Khan, known for his all-round prowess, stepped up in August with stellar performances. He played a crucial role with both bat and ball against Afghanistan and Nepal. Notably, his four-wicket haul against Nepal spearheaded Pakistan’s victory in the Asia Cup. This marks Shadab’s first-ever nomination for the Player of the Month awards.

Nicholas Pooran (West Indies):

Nicholas Pooran, the West Indies’ T20 sensation, roared in August. He played a pivotal role in the West Indies’ thrilling 3-2 series victory against India, amassing 176 runs across five T20I matches. Pooran’s explosive batting style and a match-winning 67 off 40 balls in Guyana earned him the Player of the Series award, making him a strong contender for this month’s honour.

Women’s Player of the Month Nominees:

Ainna Hamizah Hashim (Malaysia):

Ainna Hamizah Hashim showcased her versatility as a cricketer, contributing valuable runs and taking crucial wickets against formidable opponents like Kuwait and Nepal. Her stellar performance in the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup Asia Qualifier further solidified her spot on the shortlist.

Arlene Kelly (Ireland):

Arlene Kelly was a force to be reckoned with in August, as her searing pace dismantled the Netherlands’ batting lineup during a T20I series victory. Her remarkable performances helped Ireland clinch crucial wins, earning her a place among the nominees.

Iris Zwilling (Netherlands):

Iris Zwilling, the Dutch opener, exhibited her batting prowess with consistent half-centuries against Ireland and Jersey. Her resilient performances provided hope and resistance for her team during a successful month.

Independent ICC voting academy and cricket fans worldwide will cast their votes to decide the winners, to be announced next week. Fans can participate in the voting process until Sunday at icc-cricket.com/awards.