KEY POINTS
- Jomel Warrican wins first Men’s Player of the Month Award after sensational bowling against Pakistan
- Beth Mooney secures Women’s Player of the Month title following key contributions in Australia’s dominant Ashes Victory
ISLAMABAD: The International Cricket Council (ICC) has named Jomel Warrican of the West Indies and Beth Mooney of Australia as the ICC Men’s and Women’s Players of the Month for January 2025.
Jomel Warrican, a left-arm spinner, played a pivotal role in leading the West Indies to their first Test victory in Pakistan since 1990, a feat that has etched itself into the annals of cricket history.
His contribution was nothing short of phenomenal, as he showcased his bowling prowess by claiming 19 wickets across just two Test matches, achieving an astonishing average of 9.00. The 32-year-old’s stellar performance included a breathtaking spell where he captured ten wickets in a single match, demonstrating his ability to thrive in spin-friendly conditions.
The first Test match saw Warrican’s brilliance emerge in Multan, where he recorded figures of three for 69 in the first innings, followed by an astounding seven for 32 in the second. His mastery with the ball was complemented by two crucial run-outs, as he was instrumental in nearly every dismissal of the Pakistani batsmen.
In the subsequent Test, Warrican not only excelled with the ball but also showed his batting skills, rescuing his team from a precarious 95 for nine with a commendable 36 not out. His all-round contributions secured a historic 120-run victory for the West Indies, earning him the Player of the Series accolade and marking him as the first West Indian player to receive this award since Gudakesh Motie’s win in May 2024.
Reflecting on his achievement, Warrican expressed heartfelt gratitude, stating, “It’s an honour to win this award. One of my goals for this year was my first five-for in Test cricket, but I did not think that it would be this grand!” He attributed his success to his father’s unwavering support and highlighted the significance of Multan in his career.
Meanwhile, in the women’s game, Australia’s Beth Mooney was in dazzling form throughout the Ashes series against England. After a slow start, she rebounded with a resilient half-century in the third ODI in Hobart, scoring 50 runs from 64 balls and helping her team post a formidable total of 308. This performance was a turning point, enabling Australia to secure a clean sweep in the ODI series.
In the T20I matches that followed, Mooney truly shone, amassing an impressive 213 runs at an explosive strike rate of 146.89. Her contributions included a stunning unbeaten 94 off just 63 balls in Adelaide, marking her highest score in over five years. This stellar display ensured her victory over competitors Karishma Ramharack and Gongadi Trisha, solidifying her position as the top-ranked batter.
Well done to Australia batter Beth Mooney and West Indian spinner Jomel Warrican for winning the ICC Player of the Month Awards for January. Beth was pivotal in her team's Ashes win and Jomel took 19 wickets in two Test matches at an average of just 9.00. pic.twitter.com/pKnukBvcto
— Jay Shah (@JayShah) February 11, 2025
Upon receiving her award, Mooney shared her enthusiasm, saying, “It’s an honour to be named the ICC Women’s Player of the Month. January was an incredible month for the Australian Women’s Cricket Team.” She celebrated the significant achievement of winning the Ashes at home and playing in the historic first-ever day-night Test at the MCG, a moment that will remain etched in the memories of all involved.
Both players have set high standards in their respective formats, and their achievements will inspire future generations of cricketers. With their remarkable performances, Warrican and Mooney have not only claimed individual accolades but have also contributed to the rich tapestry of cricketing history
