India’s opener Sanju Samson and fast bowler Jasprit Bumrah headline the ICC Player of the Month nominees for March after playing key roles in India’s T20 World Cup success.
Also on the list is South Africa’s promising batter Connor Esterhuizen, who impressed everyone with a strong debut T20I series in New Zealand.
Samson dominated March. After missing the initial games of the World Cup, he returned in the Super 8 stage and delivered in crucial situations. Samson’s unbeaten 97 against the West Indies in Kolkata was pivotal in driving India’s momentum through the tournament’s knockout phase.
Following his Kolkata heroics, Samson delivered twin 89s in the high-pressure semi-final and final—against England in Mumbai and New Zealand in Ahmedabad. His fearless batting and match-winning consistency were crucial in India lifting the T20 World Cup trophy and clinching the Player of the Tournament honor.
Bumrah scripted a masterclass with the ball, showcasing his knack for delivering under pressure. Across the knockout fixtures, he picked up seven scalps at an impressive 12.00 average while keeping his economy tight at 7.00, reaffirming his status as India’s strike bowler in big matches.
In the title clash, he ran through the New Zealand batting line-up, finishing with sensational figures of 4/15 from his quota, and claimed the Player of the Match award. Overall, he took 14 wickets in the tournament.
The South African batting sensation, Esterhuizen, dominated in New Zealand with 200 runs from five matches at an average of 50 and a strike rate near 146, combining power and control to guide his side to a 3-2 series victory and take home the Player of the Series award.
Breaking into the top 40 of the ICC T20I batting rankings with 551 points, Esterhuizen reached a significant landmark early in his international stint.
Three top contenders, each with standout contributions, are now in the running as the decision looms for the closely contested monthly accolade.
