Mohammed Siraj wins ICC Player of the Month after Kennington Oval heroics

India fast bowler Mohammed Siraj has been named the ICC Men’s Player of the Month for August 2025, following his match-winning performance in the final Test of the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy at The Oval.

Siraj, who featured in just one match during the month, produced a stunning nine-wicket haul across both innings to help India level the five-Test series 2-2. His second-innings burst included a decisive five-wicket haul that dismantled England’s batting order and sealed victory for the visitors.

The right-armer, who bowled 46 overs in the Test, was also named Player of the Match for his efforts. Siraj beat competition from New Zealand pacer Matt Henry and West Indies quick Jayden Seales to clinch the monthly honour.

Speaking after receiving the award, Siraj said it was a proud moment to be recognised at the international level. “It is a special honour to be named ICC Player of the Month. The Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy was a memorable series, and it was one of the most intense contests I have been part of. I am proud that I could contribute with some important spells, especially in the decisive moments,” Siraj said in an ICC release.

He added that the award was a reflection of the team effort. “This award belongs as much to my teammates and the support staff as it does to me, because their constant encouragement and belief kept me going. Bowling against a top batting lineup in their home conditions was challenging, but it also brought out the best in me,” he said.

Siraj’s efforts drew plaudits from across the cricketing world, including from ICC Hall of Famer Sachin Tendulkar, who remarked that the pacer’s role in India’s success has often been “underplayed” despite his consistency in high-pressure situations.

The Hyderabad-born pacer also achieved his career-best ranking in Tests following the Oval Test. Over the course of the five-match series, he was the only Indian pacer to feature in every Test, finishing as the team’s leading wicket-taker with 23 scalps at an average of 32.43, including two five-wicket hauls.

Siraj said he was determined to build on the milestone. “I will continue to work hard and give my best every time I wear the India jersey,” he said.ket hauls.