Published: 10:18 AM, 10 May 2026
NahidRana nominated for ICC Player of the Month after New Zealand heroics
Bangladesh's rising pace sensation NahidRana headlines the April 2026 nominees after a match-winning display against New Zealand in the 50-over format. -BCB
Bangladesh fast bowler NahidRana has been shortlisted for the ICC Men's Player of the Month award for April following a dominant display in the recent home ODI series against New Zealand.
The 23-year-old speedster earned his place on the three-man shortlist after being named Player of the Series in Bangladesh's 2-1 victory over the visitors.
Rana claimed eight wickets across the three matches, maintaining a disciplined economy rate of 4.46.
The highlight of his month came during the second ODI in Mirpur, where he dismantled the New Zealand batting order with figures of 5-32. His five-wicket haul paved the way for a 55-run win, proving his ability to deliver under pressure. Rana concluded the series with two additional wickets in the final match in Chattogram.
Rana faces competition from Oman captain Jatinder Singh and UAE left-arm seamer Ajay Kumar. Singh earned his nod through a record-breaking 139 against Nepal, while Kumar impressed with nine wickets in his first two career ODIs.
The winner will be decided by a combination of votes from an independent ICC Voting Academy and global cricket fans. Bangladesh fans can cast their ballots via the ICC's official website.
Meanwhile, joining him is Oman's dependable top-order batter and skipper Jatinder Singh, who enjoyed a prolific month in the ICC Men's Cricket World Cup League 2.
Amassing 266 runs across five ODIs at an average of 53.20 and a strike rate above 115, Jatinder combined consistency with flair in Oman's Cricket World Cup League 2 campaign.
His campaign included a composed half-century against Scotland (51), but it was his explosive 130 off just 96 balls against Nepal in Kirtipur that stole the headlines.
The knock was a national-record innings that showcased his ability to dominate attacks and anchor innings alike, as Oman beat Nepal and secured important League 2 points.
Rounding out the shortlist is UAE's emerging bowling star Ajay Kumar, whose remarkable start to international cricket has turned heads.
In just his first two ODIs, Ajay picked up nine wickets at a stunning average of 7.66, with an economy rate of 3.66.
His performances included figures of 3-34 against Nepal and a sensational 6-35 versus Oman, immediately establishing him as a potent force in the UAE bowling attack.
Though he featured in a T20I as well, it was his impact in Cricket World Cup League 2 that helped UAE gain important points that secured his nomination.
