Photo: Collected

DHAKA, May 14, 2026 (BSS) - Bangladesh fast bowler Nahid Rana has been named the ICC Men’s Player of the Month following his impressive performances in the home series against New Zealand national cricket team.

The 22-year-old pacer played a leading role in Bangladesh’s 2-1 series victory and was adjudged Player of the Series after taking eight wickets at an economy rate of 4.46 across three matches.

Nahid’s standout display came in the second match in Mirpur, where he claimed 5-32 to help Bangladesh secure a 55-run victory. He also picked up two wickets in the final match in Chattogram.

With the award, Nahid became the fourth Bangladesh male cricketer and the fifth player overall from the country to receive the ICC monthly honour.

Previously, Shakib Al Hasan won the accolade twice in July 2021 and March 2023, while Mushfiqur Rahim and Mehidy Hasan Miraz received the award in May 2021 and April 2025 respectively. Nahida Akter remains the only Bangladesh women’s player to win the honour, having done so in May 2023.

Nahid beat Jatinder Singh and Ajay Kumar to claim the men’s award.

“It’s a great feeling to be named the ICC Player of the Month after performing well against a world-class side like New Zealand,” Nahid said in a statement.

“To deliver on home soil made the series even more special and it was a series that I will always cherish.”
 
“I’m grateful to my team-mates for their constant support and belief in me throughout. I hope to keep contributing to more victories and memorable moments for my team,” he added.

Meanwhile, Laura Wolvaardt won the ICC Women’s Player of the Month award after strong performances in white-ball series against New Zealand and India.

The South Africa captain secured her third monthly award in seven months, finishing ahead of Imesha Dulani and Laura Cardoso.