Mushfiqur Rahim, Lauren Bell named ICC Players of the Month for May

Former Bangladesh captain Mushfiqur Rahim has been named the ICC Men's Player of the Month for May, while England fast bowler Lauren Bell claimed the women's award following a series of impressive performances.

Mushfiqur secured the men's prize after starring in Bangladesh's home Test series victory over Pakistan, seeing off competition from team-mate Taijul Islam and Nepal all-rounder Dipendra Singh Airee. The veteran batter was also named Player of the series for his contributions.

Having previously won the award in May 2021, Mushfiqur enjoyed another prolific month, scoring 235 runs at an average of 63.25 across the two-Test series. 

The 39-year-old, who made his Test debut in 2005, played key innings of 71 in the first Test in Dhaka and 137 in the second Test in Sylhet, helping Bangladesh complete a clean sweep.

Mushfiqur Rahim said: “It is a great honour to be named the ICC Player of the Month once again, and I am especially pleased that this recognition has come for my performances in Test cricket. My teammate Taijul also played a big part in our memorable series win over Pakistan, one which we will all cherish for long.

“Our victory has also helped us climb the ICC World Test Championship standings, making the achievement even more significant for the team. I am grateful to my team-mates and support staff for their support, and I look forward to contributing further to Bangladesh’s success in the months ahead.”

In the women's category, Bell beat Pakistan batter Gull Feroza and New Zealand's Maddy Green after producing a string of strong displays in both One Day International and T20 International cricket against India and New Zealand.

The England seamer claimed five wickets in three ODIs and added eight more in four T20Is during the month, earning recognition for her consistency across formats.

The winners were selected through a combination of votes cast by fans worldwide on the ICC website and a specialist panel made up of former international cricketers and media representatives.