England fast bowler Lauren Bell and Bangladesh batter Mushfiqur Rahim have been named ICC Players of the Month for May, recognizing standout performances that boosted their teams in recent international fixtures.
Lauren Bell earned her first ICC Monthly award after a series of strong performances for England. She topped the England bowling chart in May, taking eight wickets at an economy rate of 7.00. Her best spell came against India in Chelmsford, finishing with 3 for 34. Bell played a key role in England securing two consecutive Twenty20 International series on home soil, defeating New Zealand and India. At 25, Bell is part of the England squad competing in major upcoming events, including the 2026 Women’s T20 World Cup.
“I’m delighted to win this award. Performing well in front of home crowds is always fun and hugely satisfying. Playing for England is a huge honour and I’m proud to contribute to the team,” Bell said. “Women’s cricket has been growing at an incredible pace, and the crowds at the Women’s T20 World Cup reflect that progress. The support from fans has been amazing, and I hope to give them more to cheer over the next few weeks.”
Mushfiqur Rahim named Men’s Player of the Month for May
Former Bangladesh captain Mushfiqur Rahim has been named the ICC Men’s Player of the Month for May after a standout series against Pakistan. In the two-match Test series hosted by Bangladesh, Rahim amassed 253 runs at an average of 63.25, including a century in the second Test in Sylhet, where he struck 137 in the second innings. This was Rahim’s 14th century in Tests, underscoring his enduring impact in the longest format of the game.
Rahim previously won the ICC Player of the Month award in May 2021. In May 2024, he edged out Bangladesh teammate Taijul Islam and Nepal all-rounder Dipendra Singh Airee to claim the honor. “It is a great honour to be named the ICC Player of the Month once again, and I’m especially pleased that this recognition comes for my performances in Test cricket,” Rahim commented. He also credited his teammates and support staff for contributing to Bangladesh’s 2-0 series win over Pakistan and noted the team’s climb in the World Test Championship standings as a meaningful achievement.
The ICC Player of the Month awards highlight outstanding individual performances across men’s and women’s international cricket, celebrating players who have made a significant impact in the preceding month. Both Bell and Rahim’s accolades reflect the continued excellence of their respective teams and their pivotal roles in recent successes.
