DUBAI: Bangladesh veteran Shakib Al Hasan has been named the ICC Men’s Player of the Month for his stellar performances in March 2023. 

“Shakib overcame tough competition from Kane Williamson of New Zealand and Asif Khan of UAE to walk away with the coveted prize,” said ICC in a media release on Wednesday.

The 36-year-old led Bangladesh from the front during their unforgettable home season when they recorded a historic 3-0 clean sweep over the reigning Men’s T20 World Champions England.

He dismissed a batter in each of the three T20Is while finishing the game for his side in the first match with an unbeaten 24-ball 34.

Earlier, the talismanic all-rounder also finished both as the highest run-scorer and wicket-taker for Bangladesh during the ODI series against England. In his side’s only win of the series, Shakib starred with a 71-ball 75 and followed it up with a four-for to take the Player of the Match award.

He was already in his prime when Ireland visited Bangladesh, thus, the veteran played a match-winning 93 in the first ODI. Later in the second T20I of the series, he scored a 24-ball 38* and then went to pick up five wickets inside the Powerplay in a dominating all-round display.

In the 12 games played in March, Shakib amassed 353 runs and picked up 15 wickets.

After winning the award for the second time, Shakib thanked the panel that voted for him ahead of a pair of his competitors.

“I am honoured to win the award and would like to thank the expert panellists who have voted for me,” he said.

“This is a recognition I greatly value because there are so many special performances in a month from a number of amazing cricketers.

“If I was to pick my highlight from the past month, it has to be the T20 series sweep against England and, with the team continuing to perform beautifully as a unit in all departments, it is easier for me now to concentrate on my role and contribute.”

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