ICC announce Men's Player of the Month for January 2025

West Indies left-arm spinner Jomel Warrican has been named the ICC Men’s Player of the Month for January 2025 following an outstanding performance in Pakistan. Warrican played a key role in leading West Indies to their first-ever Test victory in Pakistan in 35 years, earning his career-best bowling figures in the process.

“It’s an honour to win this award," Warrican said in response to his achievement. 

"One of my goals for this year was my first five-for in Test cricket, but I did not think that it would be this grand! I see this as one small step in my cricketing career, and I look forward to many more. I promised my captain something special in this series, especially when my father, my biggest supporter, predicted a phenomenal performance for me," he added. 

He further shared his love for the city of Multan, saying, "Multan has a special place in my heart: not only because of the historic win for the West Indies, beating Pakistan away from home, but also by earning this prestigious award."

Warrican’s heroics were crucial in West Indies’ success on the turning tracks of Pakistan. In the first Test in Multan, he claimed career-best figures of 10/101 and also contributed with the bat, scoring an unbeaten 31*. However, despite his efforts, Pakistan, led by Sajid Khan's 9/115, triumphed by 127 runs.

Undeterred, Warrican came back strong in the second Test. He first played a vital role with the bat, scoring a gritty 36* at No.11, helping West Indies recover from 95/9 to 163. Then, he struck with the ball, taking four wickets in the first innings, giving West Indies a slight advantage.

In the final innings, Warrican delivered the match-winning blow, taking 5/27 as Pakistan were bowled out, allowing West Indies to win by 120 runs. This victory marked West Indies' first Test win in Pakistan since 1990.

In total, Warrican scored 85 runs at an average of 42.50 and claimed 19 wickets at an outstanding average of nine, making him the Player of the Series. This is the first time the 32-year-old has won the Player of the Month award, and only the third time a West Indies player has received the honour. Shamar Joseph and Gudakesh Motie were the previous winners in 2024.