Shafali Verma Wins ICC Award After World Cup Final

India opener Shafali Verma has been named the ICC Women’s Player of the Month for November 2025 after her outstanding performance in the Women’s ODI World Cup final against South Africa. Drafted into the playing XI as a late replacement for the injured Pratika Rawal, Shafali made the most of her opportunity on the biggest stage.

The young batter played a brilliant knock of 87 runs from 78 balls, the highest score ever by an Indian opener in a World Cup final. Her aggressive start, along with a record 100-run opening partnership with vice-captain Smriti Mandhana, helped India post a strong total of 298 for 7. Shafali’s contribution did not end with the bat, as she also delivered with the ball, taking two key wickets to stop South Africa’s chase.

She finished with figures of 2 for 36 from seven overs, dismissing Sune Luus and Marizanne Kapp in quick succession to shift the momentum in India’s favour. Her all-round effort played a major role in helping India secure their first-ever Women’s ODI World Cup title in front of a home crowd.

Speaking after receiving the award, Shafali said she felt honoured and grateful to contribute to such a historic victory. She dedicated the award to her teammates, coaches, family, and supporters, stressing that cricket is always a team effort.

Shafali beat competition from players from Thailand and the UAE to win her first Player of the Month award. The recognition marks a strong comeback for her after being dropped earlier from the ODI squad. She will next represent India in the upcoming five-match T20I series against Sri Lanka starting December 21.