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Australia’s star fast bowler Mitchell Starc has been named the ICC Men’s Player of the Month for December, following a dominant display in the 2025-26 Ashes series against England. The 35-year-old left-armer was exceptional with both ball and bat, taking 31 wickets across the series while also contributing two half-centuries, earning him the Player of the Series award. Starc’s performances in December alone were enough to secure the monthly accolade. Across three Tests during the month, he claimed 16 wickets and added 139 runs, showcasing his value as a genuine all-round threat. Speaking to the ICC, Starc said, “It’s an honour to be named the ICC Player of the Month, and even more special that it came on the back of such a successful home Ashes. To have played a part in winning such an iconic series in front of our home crowd is something we will all relish for a long time.”
He also highlighted the team’s broader ambitions, noting, “As a team, we’ve had some outstanding performances in the last few years. The focus now is on building that momentum towards a place in next year’s ICC World Test Championship Final.” Starc’s award came ahead of stiff competition from two other impressive performers. West Indies’ Justin Greaves had a standout month in New Zealand, scoring 283 runs at an average of 56.60 across three Tests, including an unbeaten 202 in the fourth innings of the first Test at Christchurch that helped his side secure a draw. Meanwhile, New Zealand fast bowler Jacob Duffy dominated the ball, taking 23 wickets at an exceptional average of 15.43 in the three-Test series against West Indies, playing a key role in New Zealand’s 2-0 series victory with his swing and precision. Starc’s recognition underlines his continued status as one of the premier all-rounders in world cricket and highlights his instrumental role in Australia’s home Ashes triumph.
