The shortlist for the Men’s Player of the Month features three outstanding performers: Justin Greaves of the West Indies, Jacob Duffy of New Zealand, and Australia’s Mitchell Starc. Each made a significant impact with bat and ball during a busy cricket month.
Justin Greaves Shines for West Indies
West Indies all-rounder Greaves enjoyed a remarkable month in New Zealand, scoring 283 runs at an average of 56.60 over three Tests. His standout moment came in the first Test at Christchurch, where he played a stunning innings of 202 not out in the fourth innings, helping his team secure a draw. Greaves also made contributions with the ball, taking five wickets and rising to the occasion when it mattered most.
Jacob Duffy’s Dominance in Home Series
New Zealand fast bowler Jacob Duffy led the wicket tally in the home Test series against West Indies, capturing 23 wickets at an excellent average of 15.43 across three matches. His vital performances were central to New Zealand’s 2-0 series victory, as he consistently challenged opposition batters with his swing and precision. Duffy’s exceptional showing earned him the Player of the Series award, underscoring his crucial role in the Black Caps’ triumph.
Notably, Duffy’s remarkable performance in late 2025 made him New Zealand’s leading wicket-taker for a calendar year across all formats, amassing a total of 81 wickets and surpassing Richard Hadlee’s previous record of 79 wickets set in 1985.
Mitchell Starc’s Contribution in Ashes Series
Mitchell Starc, Australia’s left-arm fast bowler, played a pivotal role in the December Ashes series, taking 16 wickets and scoring 139 runs over three Tests. He was named Player of the Match in the second Ashes Test after a brilliant performance, where he scored 77 runs and took eight wickets, which were instrumental in securing Australia’s victory. His impressive first innings figures of 6/75 helped set the tone for the match, and he frequently struck early to unsettle the opposition.
Starc also made significant contributions with the bat, scoring 54 runs and taking four wickets in the decisive third Test in Adelaide, where Australia clinched the series. His impactful combination of match-winning bowling and crucial lower-order runs was vital in helping Australia reclaim the Ashes urn.