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South Africa’s Aiden Markram has been named the ICC Men’s Player of the Month for June 2025, following his match-winning performance in the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) Final against Australia at Lord’s.
Markram edged out fellow nominees, his teammate Kagiso Rabada and Sri Lanka’s top-order batter Pathum Nissanka, to claim the monthly honour.
The 30-year-old opener played a crucial role in helping the Proteas lift their first senior ICC trophy in 27 years. He scored a magnificent 136 in the fourth innings of the WTC Final and also contributed with the ball by taking two important wickets, including that of Steve Smith, to set up a historic win for South Africa.
Reacting to the award, Markram said, “It is a privilege to receive this award. To contribute to a ICC World Test Championship win for our team and South Africa is something that means a lot to me. Winning the final at Lord’s is a historic moment for South African cricket, and it is something we will all remember forever. This victory was only possible due to the combined efforts of the entire team, with crucial contributions from KG (Kagiso Rabada) and Tembs (Temba Bavuma).”
Although Markram was dismissed for a duck in the first innings, he bounced back strongly in the second. Chasing a target of 282, he guided the Proteas through a tense fourth innings, showing composure and maturity. His partnerships with Wiaan Mulder and Temba Bavuma kept the innings steady, especially after the early loss of Ryan Rickelton.
When Bavuma faced an injury scare during the chase, Markram offered constant support. He eventually departed after scoring 136, anchoring the innings with control and calmness.
Before shining with the bat, Markram made a vital impact with the ball, breaking a strong partnership by dismissing Steve Smith with just his sixth delivery. He later removed Josh Hazlewood in the second innings to wrap up Australia’s innings.
This memorable performance helped South Africa clinch their maiden ICC World Test Championship title, and Markram’s all-round efforts rightly earned him the ICC Men’s Player of the Month award.
