Shubman Gill Secures Fifth ICC Player of the Month Award for September 2026
Shubman Gill's Remarkable Achievement
Dubai [UAE], October 13: Indian cricket captain Shubman Gill has made headlines by clinching his fifth 'ICC Player of the Month' award for September 2026, as announced by the International Cricket Council (ICC) on Tuesday.
Gill triumphed over fellow nominees Abhishek Sharma from India and Zimbabwe's Sikandar Raza to earn this prestigious accolade.
In the first two ODIs against West Indies, Gill amassed a total of 333 runs, featuring a century in the first match and an unbeaten double century in the second. India emerged victorious in both encounters, winning by eight wickets.
During the initial ODI held in Thiruvananthapuram on September 27, Gill scored 110 runs off 108 balls, leading India to chase down West Indies' total of 295/7. India successfully reached the target of 296 in just 41.4 overs.
In the subsequent match in Guwahati, West Indies set a formidable target of 405/7, marking their first ODI total exceeding 400. Gill, leading the Indian side, responded with an impressive 223 runs off 133 balls, which included 26 fours and eight sixes. India finished the match at 406/2 in 43.3 overs, achieving the target with 39 balls remaining. His century came off just 62 balls, the fastest by an Indian captain in ODIs, while his double century was recorded in 117 balls, setting a new ODI record.
This remarkable performance remains the highest individual score in a successful ODI chase. Gill and Rohit Sharma (101 off 75 balls) formed a partnership of 255 runs for the opening wicket, which is India's highest on home soil. This chase ranks as the second-highest successful chase in ODI history, only behind South Africa's 438/9 against Australia in 2006.
India concluded the three-match series with a 2-1 victory, despite West Indies winning the third ODI on October 3.
With this latest achievement, Gill extends his record as the male player with the most ICC Men's Player of the Month awards, having previously won in January 2023, September 2023, February 2025, and July 2025.
The last Indian male recipient of this award was Sanju Samson in March 2026. Indian players have now secured this honor 17 times across 11 individuals, with Gill contributing five of those victories.
Expressing his gratitude, Gill stated, “Winning my fifth ICC Player of the Month award feels fantastic, and I appreciate the panel for this recognition.”
He further remarked, “Scoring those runs was immensely satisfying, especially being part of successful run chases in front of our home fans, whose support always gives us an extra boost.”
Gill also discussed the evolving nature of the game, emphasizing the need for adaptability. “The pace of ODI cricket has increased significantly, and it’s crucial to think quickly, assess conditions, and adapt to the pitch's demands,” he noted.
Looking ahead to the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup in southern Africa next year, he expressed determination to elevate their standards and cultivate a robust, versatile team ready to face upcoming challenges.