Did Shafali Verma Just Win ICC Women’s Player of the Month for November?
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Shafali Verma wins ICC Women’s Player of the Month for November 2025.
- She scored 87 runs in the ODI World Cup final.
- Her bowling figures were 2-36 from seven overs.
- Shafali's victory symbolizes a significant achievement for Indian women’s cricket.
- She dedicated the award to her teammates and supporters.
New Delhi, Dec 15 (NationPress) Indian opener Shafali Verma has been honored with the ICC Women’s Player of the Month title for November 2025, thanks to her outstanding performance during the ODI World Cup final against South Africa.
Stepping in as a late substitute for the injured Pratika Rawal, Shafali took full advantage of her opportunity, scoring a brilliant 87 runs off 78 balls—marking the highest score by an Indian opener in a World Cup final.
Her explosive start and a record-setting 100-run partnership with India’s vice-captain Smriti Mandhana established a solid foundation for India, who posted a total of 298/7. Shafali’s influence extended beyond batting as she took two quick wickets, dismissing Sune Luus and Marizanne Kapp, effectively disrupting South Africa’s momentum.
With bowling figures of 2-36 from seven overs, Shafali delivered an impressive all-round performance on a monumental stage, playing a crucial role in securing India’s historic victory.
"My debut experience at the ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup didn’t begin as I had hoped, but it concluded far better than I could have dreamed. I am thankful to have contributed to our success in the Final and to have made history by winning the World Cup for the first time in front of our home fans.
"I am genuinely honored to receive the Women’s Player of the Month award for November. I dedicate this recognition to my teammates, coaches, family, and everyone who has supported my journey thus far. We win and lose as a team, and this award belongs to all of us," Shafali stated in an ICC release on Monday.
Shafali triumphed over competitors Thipatcha Putthawong from Thailand and Esha Oza from the UAE to claim her inaugural Player of the Month award, as India became the fourth team to clinch the Women’s ODI World Cup.
This award signifies a remarkable comeback for Shafali, who had previously been excluded from India’s ODI squad but fought her way back through domestic competitions to regain her form before being recalled for the World Cup. She is set to play against Sri Lanka in a five-match T20I series starting December 21 in Visakhapatnam.