A month defined by match-winning performances across formats has set the stage for an exciting race for the ICC Women’s Player of the Month for March 2026. From dominant all-round brilliance to consistent batting displays and lethal spells with the ball, three standout performers – Melie Kerr, Beth Mooney, and Ayabonga Khaka, have earned nominations following exceptional contributions for their respective national teams.
Each nominee has played a pivotal role in shaping results during a busy international calendar, underlining the growing competitiveness and depth in women’s cricket globally.
Melie Kerr’s all-round dominance powers New Zealand
New Zealand captain Melie Kerr delivered one of the most complete individual performances seen in recent months, excelling with both bat and ball during home series against Zimbabwe and South Africa.
Her impact in the ODI format was particularly remarkable. Across four matches, Kerr picked up an astonishing 18 wickets at an average of just 6.77, including a historic spell of 7/34 against Zimbabwe, the best bowling figures ever recorded by a New Zealand woman in ODIs. That performance not only sealed a commanding victory but also highlighted her evolution into one of the game’s premier all-rounders.
Kerr’s influence extended into the T20I series as well. She claimed six wickets in six matches, with her best figures of 2/6 coming against South Africa. With the bat, she was equally consistent, amassing 276 runs in the series and maintaining a remarkable streak of 11 consecutive scores of 30 or more in T20 internationals.
Her all-round excellence has also seen her rise to the top of the ICC Women’s T20I all-rounder rankings, further cementing her status as one of the most influential players in world cricket.
Beth Mooney anchors Australia’s batting charge
Australia’s ever-reliable Beth Mooney once again showcased her class and composure at the crease, delivering crucial runs across formats throughout March. She began the month in emphatic fashion with an unbeaten 106 off 84 balls against India, guiding Australia to a dominant series sweep. Her innings combined precision and aggression, setting the tone for Australia’s continued success.
Mooney carried her form into the T20I series against the West Indies, where she scored 107 runs in three matches at an average of 35.66 and an impressive strike rate of 128.91. One of the highlights of her campaign was a match-winning 79 in the opening T20I, earning her the Player of the Match award.
She capped off a strong month with another impactful performance in the ODI format, scoring 65 against the West Indies. Known for her consistency and ability to anchor innings under pressure, Mooney once again proved why she remains a cornerstone of Australia’s batting lineup.
Ayabonga Khaka shines with the ball for South Africa
South Africa’s Ayabonga Khaka completes the shortlist after a series of impactful performances, particularly during her team’s tour of New Zealand. Khaka was instrumental in the T20I series, finishing as her side’s leading wicket-taker with eight scalps at an average of 15.37. Her standout performance came in the second T20I, where she produced figures of 4/27 to help South Africa secure an important 18-run victory.
In the ODI format, Khaka delivered a career-best spell of 6/56 in Christchurch, playing a decisive role in her team’s win. Her ability to generate movement and maintain discipline with the ball has made her one of the most reliable seamers in the women’s game.
The March nominations highlight the diversity of talent in international women’s cricket, with players from three different nations making significant contributions across formats. From Kerr’s all-round heroics to Mooney’s batting consistency and Khaka’s bowling precision, each nominee has brought a unique impact to their team’s success.
The ICC Women’s Player of the Month award continues to recognise individual brilliance while also showcasing the rapid growth and competitiveness of the women’s game. With international fixtures becoming more frequent and competitive, performances like these are setting new benchmarks for excellence.
