Babar Azam crowned ICC Men's Player of the Month

Pakistan skipper Babar Azam on Tuesday was declared the ICC Men's Player of the Month for the third time, winning the award for the month of August 2023. Holding the top spot in the MRF Tyres ICC Men's ODI Player Rankings, Babar continued to impress with his exceptional performance last month and has been crowned this award. Babar — who was thrilled to accept the honour — beat teammate Shadab Khan and West Indies hard-hitter Nicholas Pooran to win the award. "I am delighted to be named ICC Player of the Month for August 2023," Babar said. "The past month has been extraordinary for my team as we have put some terrific performances. With the Asia Cup coming to Pakistan after such a long time, it was great to play in front of the passionate and cricket-loving crowds of Multan and Lahore,” he said adding that his second ODI score of 150-plus in Multan doubled the joy. "I am looking forward to making the most of the form as we head into an exciting phase of cricket with the backend of the Asia Cup nearing and the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup around the corner. My team and I are eager to bring joy and happiness to the millions of Pakistan fans."

Pakistan's captain, Babar Azam, has won the ICC Men's Player of the Month award for the third time, receiving the honor for August 2023. Babar, who currently holds the top position in the MRF Tyres ICC Men's ODI Player Rankings, continued to impress with his outstanding performance last month.

Babar expressed his delight at receiving the award, saying, "I am delighted to be named ICC Player of the Month for August 2023." He attributed the success to his team's remarkable performances during the month and the opportunity to play in front of passionate crowds in Multan and Lahore during the Asia Cup.

Babar's outstanding performance during the month included an exceptional innings in the first ODI against Afghanistan in a bilateral series in Sri Lanka. While he faced a rare setback in that match, failing to score any runs, he quickly bounced back with two consecutive fifties. The highlight came during the second ODI when he, along with Imam-ul-Haq, formed a crucial 118-run partnership, setting the stage for a thrilling last-over showdown. Babar contributed 53 runs in the run-chase, helping Pakistan secure a nail-biting victory.

In the final ODI of the series, Babar played a significant role by scoring 60 runs, contributing to Pakistan's victory and achieving a clean sweep with a 3-0 series win.

Babar's excellent form continued in the ongoing Asia Cup, where he delivered an outstanding performance in the tournament opener against Nepal, scoring 151 runs off 131 balls. This century marked his 31st century across all formats for Pakistan, a remarkable achievement that places him among legendary Pakistani cricketers.

With the ICC Men's Cricket World Cup approaching, Babar expressed his eagerness to continue his excellent form and bring joy to Pakistan's fans. His exceptional performance and achievements make him a key player to watch in international cricket.