Patiala, 17 December (sports Desk)
Indian opener Shafali Verma has been named the ICC Women’s Player of the Month for November 2025, recognizing her stellar all-round performance in the ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup 2025 final against South Africa.
The 21-year-old edged out Thailand’s Thipatcha Putthawong and the UAE’s Esha Oza to claim her maiden Player of the Month award. Her heroics came after a dramatic late call-up to the squad as a replacement for the injured Pratika Rawal ahead of the knockouts.
In the summit clash on November 2 in Navi Mumbai, Shafali smashed a blistering 87 off 78 balls—featuring seven fours and two sixes—marking the highest score by an Indian opener in a Women’s World Cup final. Her aggressive knock laid the foundation for India’s imposing total of 298/7, helping secure a historic 52-run victory and India’s maiden World Cup title.
Not content with her batting exploits, Shafali also made crucial breakthroughs with the ball, dismissing Suné Luus and Marizanne Kapp to finish with figures of 2/36. Her Player of the Match display proved pivotal in breaking South Africa’s chase.
Reflecting on the accolade, Shafali said: “My first ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup experience did not go as I expected but it ended far better than I could have ever wished or imagined. I’m grateful that I could contribute to the team’s success in the final and that I was able to be a part of making history in winning the World Cup for the first time and in front of a home crowd.
“I’m truly honoured to be named the Women’s Player of the Month for November. I dedicate this award to my teammates, coaches, family and everyone who has supported my journey until now. We win and lose as a team. The same goes for this award.”
Shafali has since been included in India’s 15-member squad for the upcoming five-match women’s T20I series against Sri Lanka.
