Punjab Newsline, Sports :
Three standout performers nominated for the ICC award after exceptional displays in December 2025
The ICC has announced the nominees for the Women’s Player of the Month award for December 2025, with India’s Shafali Verma being the only Indian player to make the shortlist. She is joined by South Africa’s star batter and captain Laura Wolvaardt and experienced all-rounder Sune Luus. All three players delivered outstanding performances during the month, leaving a strong impact in international cricket.
South African skipper Laura Wolvaardt was in sublime form during the ODI and T20I series against Ireland, playing a key role in her team’s clean sweep across both formats. She produced a breathtaking unbeaten 115 in the opening T20I, showcasing her aggressive intent. Her dominance continued in the ODI series, where she struck back-to-back centuries, underlining her consistency and class. Across the three ODIs, Wolvaardt amassed 255 runs at an exceptional average, while her T20I performances were marked by an explosive strike rate.
India’s young opener Shafali Verma impressed with her fearless batting in the five-match T20I series against Sri Lanka at home. After a modest start, she found her rhythm and went on to play a series of match-winning knocks. Her most memorable performance came in the fourth T20I, where she stitched a record-breaking partnership with Smriti Mandhana, helping India register their highest-ever women’s T20I total. Shafali ended the series with 241 runs and was named Player of the Series for her consistent and aggressive contributions.
Meanwhile, South Africa’s Sune Luus enjoyed an outstanding month as an all-rounder. She made vital contributions with the bat and ball in both T20Is and ODIs against Ireland. Luus scored a century in the ODI series and also picked up crucial wickets, proving her value as a complete cricketer. Her all-round excellence throughout December makes her a strong contender for the award.