Zimbabwe’s Brian Bennett Earns ICC Player of the Month Nod

The 21-year-old’s explosive T20I exploits, including a blistering 497 runs across nine matches at a strike rate of 165.66, have propelled the Chevrons toward T20 World Cup 2026 qualification. Bennett’s nomination highlights Africa’s growing talent pool, with his consistent power-hitting against Sri Lanka, Namibia, and in the Africa Qualifier—featuring scores of 72, 65, and a maiden T20I century against Tanzania—marking him as a force to watch. As votes pour in from the ICC Voting Academy and global fans, Bennett’s journey from Under-19 stardom to international acclaim inspires a nation hungry for more success on the big stage

Born in Harare and a product of Peterhouse Boys’ School, Bennett burst onto the scene with 273 runs in the 2022 Under-19 World Cup, topping Zimbabwe’s charts. Fast-forward to September 2025, and the right-hander dominated bilaterals against Sri Lanka and Namibia before igniting the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 Africa Qualifier. His 111 against Tanzania not only sealed a 113-run rout but made him the youngest to score centuries in all formats—a rare feat shared by cricket’s elite. Averaging 55.22, Bennett’s boundary-laden knocks (without a single six in some innings, breaking records held by stars like Babar Azam) showcase calculated aggression.

As an all-rounder with off-spin tricks, Bennett’s versatility echoes Zimbabwe’s resilient spirit. Fans can vote at icc-cricket.com/awards, where the Academy holds 90% sway. A win would cap a breakout month, boosting Zimbabwe’s profile ahead of qualifiers.

In the women’s category, India’s Smriti Mandhana dazzled with 308 runs at 77 average, including a 50-ball ton against Australia. Pakistan’s Sidra Amin smashed 293 runs in three ODIs versus South Africa, while Tazmin Brits’ 101 and 171 earned her Player of the Series honors. These feats highlight women’s cricket’s rising stars.

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