Shubman Gill Sets New Benchmark With Fifth ICC Player of the Month Award After Record-Breaking ODI Series

NEW DELHI: India captain Shubman Gill has secured the ICC Men's Player of the Month award for September 2026, becoming the first male cricketer to receive the honour five times. His latest recognition follows a remarkable performance against the West Indies in the ODI series, where he combined consistency with a historic double century to strengthen India's position in international cricket.

Gill finished ahead of fellow Indian batter Abhishek Sharma and Zimbabwe captain Sikandar Raza in the competition for the monthly award. His performances in the opening two matches of the West Indies series proved decisive, helping India register consecutive victories through successful run chases.

The achievement further extends Gill's record in the men's category and highlights his growing influence as both a top-order batter and a leader of the Indian team.

Two Outstanding Innings Against West Indies

Gill began September's ODI series with an impressive 110 runs from 108 deliveries in Thiruvananthapuram on September 27. His century helped India chase a target of 296, securing an eight-wicket victory and giving the hosts an early advantage.

The Indian captain followed that performance with an even more extraordinary innings in Guwahati three days later. Chasing the West Indies' total of 405 for seven, Gill remained unbeaten on 223 from 133 balls, guiding India to 406 for two in 43.3 overs.

His innings included 26 fours and eight sixes, combining controlled stroke play with aggressive scoring. Gill reached his hundred in 62 balls before completing his double century in just 117 deliveries, setting a new record for the fastest double century in men's ODI cricket.

The knock also established the highest individual score in a successful ODI run chase. India completed the target with eight wickets remaining and 39 balls to spare, underlining the scale of the achievement.

Gill and Rohit Sharma contributed a 255-run opening partnership during the chase, India's highest opening stand on home soil in men's ODIs.

Previous Awards and a Growing Record

Gill's earlier ICC Men's Player of the Month victories came in January 2023, September 2023, February 2025 and July 2025. The September 2026 award marks his fifth success and places him at the top of the men's category for the number of wins.

The award recognises players who produce exceptional performances during a particular month, with the final selection made through the established voting process.

Gill's latest success also reflects the consistency required to maintain high standards across international assignments. His ability to perform in pressure situations, particularly while chasing substantial totals, has become an important feature of his batting.

Despite India's success in the opening two matches, the West Indies won the third ODI on October 3. India nevertheless secured the three-match series by a 2-1 margin.

Shafali Verma Adds to India's Achievement

India also celebrated success in the women's category, with opener Shafali Verma winning the ICC Women's Player of the Month award for September 2026.

Verma earned the recognition following impressive contributions during the Asia Cup and Asian Games. It was her second monthly award, having previously won the honour in November 2025.

The double recognition marks another significant moment for Indian cricket, with players from the same national board winning both monthly awards. It also highlights the performances of Indian cricketers across the men's and women's games.

Gill Turns Attention to Future Challenges

Gill has acknowledged the increasing pace of modern ODI cricket and the importance of assessing conditions quickly, adapting to the target and making sound decisions during a chase.

His latest award arrives as India continues preparing for future international commitments, including the next Men's Cricket World Cup scheduled for 2027 in southern Africa.

For Gill, the fifth monthly honour represents both recognition of his recent performances and a benchmark for the challenges ahead. His record-breaking innings against the West Indies have strengthened his standing in the game, while his responsibilities as captain will continue to place additional expectations on his performances.