Proteas duo Wolvaardt and Muthusamy named ICC Players of the Month for October

South African cricket had a double reason to celebrate on Wednesday after Proteas Women's captain Laura Wolvaardt and Proteas Men's allrounder Senuran Muthusamy were named ICC Players of the Month for October 2025.

Wolvaardt enjoyed a superb October month, striking three half-centuries and a magical 169 in the World Cup semi-final victory over England. She also became the first Proteas' captain - male or female - to lead a senior national team to an ICC World Cup limited-overs final. 

"It’s an honour to win this award following the team’s World Cup performances in India, as part of a historic event for women’s cricket," Wolvaardt said.

"The tournament featured outstanding matches and remarkable displays, which makes this recognition especially meaningful.

"While winning the tournament would have been ideal, we take pride in our victories and the unbreakable spirit we showed, while remaining confident that an ICC World Cup title is within reach. I appreciate everyone’s support, and I will always strive to make you proud on the field."

Wolvaardt’s exceptional consistency and match-winning performances has also seen her rise to the No.1 spot in the ICC Women’s Rankings

Muthusamy, meanwhile, enjoyed a breakout Test series in Pakistan where he starred with both ball and bat. 

In the absence of first-choice Proteas spinner Keshav Maharaj, the left-armer took the responsibility upon his shoulders in the first Test at the Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore. 

Muthusamy claimed a career-best 11 wickets, although it was not enough to prevent the Proteas' record-breaking Test run coming to an end. 

But with Maharaj back in tow for the second Test, Muthusamy showed off his secondary skill by scoring an invaluable 89 not out in the Proteas first innings. It formed part of match-changing partnerships of 71 and 98 with Maharaj and Kagiso Rabada respectively.

“It feels great to be named the Player of the Month by the ICC, especially since it comes for performances in Test cricket, a format that every player wants to excel in," Muthusamy said. 

“Playing for a side that won the ICC World Test Championship this year is a matter of great pride. I was privileged to be part of such a competitive series in Pakistan and am happy to have contributed with both ball and bat. I would like to thank my team-mates for their support and look forward to contributing for my team in the years to come.”