NEW DELHI: South Africa batter Aiden Markram has been named the ICC Men’s Player of the Month for June 2025 following his pivotal all-round performance in the ICC World Test Championship Final against Australia at Lord’s.The 30-year-old was instrumental in ending South Africa’s 27-year wait for a senior ICC trophy, compiling 136 runs and picking up two vital wickets in the title clash.Rising to the occasion, the South African opener delivered a standout performance—one of the most memorable in the history of the tournament—to guide his team to their maiden World Test Championship title.“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,” Markram said upon winning the award.“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).”Markram made his presence felt early with the ball, coming into the attack to break a promising stand between Steve Smith and Beau Webster. He struck swiftly, removing Smith with just his sixth delivery—an early breakthrough that proved decisive in the context of the match.His first outing with the bat, however, was brief. The right-hander fell for a duck to Mitchell Starc, leaving him with a point to prove in the second innings.He found redemption in emphatic style. With South Africa 74 runs behind and Australia frustratingly adding 59 for the final wicket, the pressure was mounting. Markram once again stepped up—first by taking the final wicket of Josh Hazlewood, and then with a remarkable knock that turned the match on its head.Chasing a challenging target of 282, Markram anchored the innings with composure. Despite the early loss of Ryan Rickelton, he built important partnerships with Wiaan Mulder and captain Temba Bavuma.When Bavuma considered retiring hurt after an injury scare, it was Markram’s words in the dressing room that convinced him to carry on. Their partnership proved to be the cornerstone of South Africa’s successful chase, taking them within touching distance of glory.Markram’s innings ended on a magnificent 136—a knock defined by poise, grit, and masterful strokeplay. More than just a match-winner, his performance etched his name into South African cricketing folklore, securing a long-awaited ICC title in truly memorable fashion.
