India batter Sanju Samson has been named the ICC Men’s Player of the Month for March 2026 following a match-winning run in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, the International Cricket Council said on Tuesday.
Samson played a decisive role in India’s title-winning campaign, delivering a series of explosive performances after initially not being part of the playing XI in the early stages of the tournament. He was later recalled for the Super 8 phase and immediately made an impact.
The right-handed opener scored 275 runs in three key T20Is during March at an average of 137.50 and a strike rate of 199.27, underlining his dominance in high-pressure matches.
His standout performances included a 97 not out against West Indies on March 1, falling just three runs short of a century, followed by a blistering 89 against England at the Wankhede Stadium that helped India post a commanding total of 253/7. India went on to win that match by seven runs.
Samson also produced another crucial 89 in India’s title-clinching victory in Ahmedabad, where the team secured a 96-run win to defend their World Cup crown.
He earned back-to-back Player of the Match awards during the tournament phase and later climbed into the top 20 of the ICC Men’s T20I batting rankings.
Speaking after receiving the award, Samson said the recognition marked a special moment in his career.
“Winning the ICC Player of the Month award is an incredible feeling, especially during what has been the most unforgettable phase of my cricketing journey,” he said. “Playing a part in India’s T20 World Cup triumph was a dream realised.”
He also credited his teammates and coaching staff for their support, calling it an “exciting era” for Indian cricket.
The award continues a streak of global winners from different nations in recent months, highlighting the competitive balance in international cricket. Previous recipients included South Africa’s Simon Harmer, Australia’s Mitchell Starc, New Zealand’s Daryl Mitchell and Pakistan’s Sahibzada Farhan.
Cricket analysts said Samson’s rise during the tournament reflected India’s depth in batting resources and the increasing importance of impact performances in global T20 competitions.
The ICC said this was the first time Samson has won the Player of the Month honour.