India’s opener Sanju Samson has been awarded the ICC Player of the Month for his outstanding performances at the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026. New Zealand’s all-rounder Amelia Kerr also received recognition for her strong performances in ODIs and T20Is in March, earning her third women’s award.
Samson beat out his teammate Jasprit Bumrah and South Africa’s Connor Esterhuizen for the honor, while Kerr outperformed Australia’s Beth Mooney and South Africa’s Ayabonga Khaka.
Samson was named Player of the Tournament at the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup. He delivered crucial match-winning innings in the virtual quarterfinal against the West Indies in Kolkata, as well as in the semifinal and final.
He followed an unbeaten 97 against the West Indies with scores of 89 in both the semifinal against England in Mumbai and the final against New Zealand in Ahmedabad. With this victory, India became the first team to defend the title and lift the trophy on home soil.
“Winning the ICC Player of the Month award is an incredible feeling, especially during such a memorable time in my cricketing journey. Being part of India’s success at the Men’s T20 World Cup was truly a dream come true,” Samson said.
“This is an exciting time for Indian Cricket, with so much talent available. I am grateful for the opportunities and the support from my teammates and coaches that have helped me perform well.”
Amelia Kerr demonstrated excellent form, scoring 176 runs at a strike rate of 78.57 in four ODIs, while taking 18 wickets at an economy rate of 3.77.
New Zealand secured a 3-0 series victory over Zimbabwe, during which Kerr was named Player of the Series, highlighted by her impressive seven for 34 in the second match.
In T20Is, she scored 276 runs at a strike rate of 158.62 and claimed six wickets, also earning Player of the Series in her team’s 4-1 win over South Africa.
Kerr previously won this award in February 2022 and October 2024.
“It’s been a special month for the White Ferns. Contributing to wins for my country is always rewarding, but the team’s spirit and belief have been the true highlights of this past month,” Kerr said.