The International Cricket Council (ICC) has announced its nominees for October’s Player of the Month. Mitchell Santner, despite featuring in just one Test whole month, has made the cut. Expectedly, meanwhile, there are no Indian players on the list following their embarrassing 0-3 Test defeat to New Zealand.
ICC Player of the Month nominees ft. Rabada, Santner
Mitchell Santner
In what can only be described as a month dominated by exceptional bowling performances, Mitchell Santner’s masterclass against India stands out as perhaps the most remarkable achievement. The New Zealand spinner, who is already a great white-ball bowler, chose the perfect stage to showcase his brilliance. His career-best figures of 7-53 in India’s first innings set the tone for what would become a historic series win for the Kiwis.
Santner’s ability to extract turn and bounce on Indian wickets, traditionally a stronghold for home spinners, demonstrated his evolution as a world-class spinner. The 32-year-old’s match haul of 13/157 was not just about the numbers; it was about dismantling a batting lineup renowned for their prowess against spin in their own backyard.
Mitchell Santner: 13 wickets at an average of 12.07
Noman Ali
Pakistan’s Noman Ali proved that age is just a number with a spectacular showing against England. The 38-year-old veteran emerged as Pakistan’s unlikely hero, snaring 20 wickets across two Tests at a remarkable average of 13.85. His 8/46 in the second Test was particularly special, breaking Pakistan’s home Test drought and showcasing his mastery over flight and deception. What made Noman’s performance even more valuable was his unexpected contribution with the bat in the final Test, where his gritty 45 runs helped Pakistan secure a crucial first-innings lead. His partnership with Sajid Ali was absolutely superb to watch.
Nomal Ali stats: 20 wickets at an average of 13.85
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Kagiso Rabada
Kagiso Rabada, meanwhile, continued to cement his legacy as one of cricket’s premier fast bowlers in current market. The South African speedster was virtually unplayable in Bangladesh, claiming 14 wickets at an astounding average of 9.00. His ability to generate pace and movement in subcontinent conditions highlighted his versatility as a bowler. The 29-year-old’s match-winning performance of 9/72 in the first Test, followed by a devastating 5/37 in the second, played a pivotal role in South Africa’s historic series victory.
Kagiso Rabada: 14 wickets at an average of 9.00
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