New Delhi, Dec 15 (IANS) South Africa off-spinner Simon Harmer has been named as winner of the ICC Men’s Player of the Month honour for November, following his inspired bowling helping the Proteas secure a 2-0 Test series win in India.

Harmer, 36, edged competition from Bangladesh’s Taijul Islam and Pakistan’s left-arm spin bowling all-rounder Mohammad Nawaz to win the monthly award for the first time. Harmer claimed a remarkable 17 wickets and play a pivotal role in South Africa, the reigning World Test Championship winners, getting their first Test series win in India in 25 years.

“It’s a privilege to be named the ICC Men’s Player of the Month for November. Playing for my country is a dream come true and anything else that comes from it as a result is a bonus.

“I share this award with my teammates, coaches and support staff and dedicate it to my family who allow me to go out and live my dream, often having to leave them at home to do so. It’s a privilege to be a part of the Proteas team and I hope to enjoy many more successful seasons with this remarkable group of people,” said Harmer in an ICC statement.

Harmer was instrumental in both victories – picking figures of 4-30 and 4-21 in the opening game at Eden Gardens in Kolkata, as South Africa got their first Test victory on Indian soil after 2010. He followed it up with 3-64 and a devastating 6-37 in the second Test at the ACA Stadium in Guwahati, where South Africa won by a massive 408 runs.

Harmer finished the two-Test series with 17 wickets at an average of 8.94 and an economy of 5.66. His outstanding performances not only secured the series sweep but also lifted South Africa to second place in the ICC World Test Championship 2025–27 standings.

–IANS

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