Rishabh Pant, R Ashwin favourites to win ICC's first-ever 'Player of the Month' award

International Cricket Council (ICC) recently introduced  'ICC Player of Month' award through which y plan to ackwledge significant performances by both male and female cricketers. Indian cricket team performed brilliantly in Australia this month, and Rishabh Pant and R Ashwin have emerged as early favourites to clinch first-ever monthly award. While re is a designated panel selected by ICC who will vote for shortlisted players, fans also will have an opportunity to vote on ICC's website. 

ICC Player of Month award: Rishabh Pant and R Ashwin emerge as frontrunners

While fans have been treated with exhilarating cricketing action in month of January, it remains to be seen which cricketer ultimately wins inaugural Player of Month award. Rishabh Pant garnered immense praise for his outstanding performance during recently concluded India vs Australia Test series. left-hander took Australian bowlers to cleaners during third Test match of series. player ended up scoring a quick-fire 97 on a placid final day Sydney wicket and shifted momentum towards India. 

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23-year-old backed this performance with yet ar entertaining kck in following fixture. southpaw slammed an unbeaten 89 in final innings of Test series-decider at Gabba and helped India register a historical victory. wicketkeeper-batsman was one of pioneers for Team India, and his contribution was key in India vs Australia 4th Test 2021. Apart from talented youngster, India's R Ashwin also has a bright chance of becoming first-ever winner of newly introduced award. 

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R Ashwin could only man to claim two wickets during Sydney Test match against Australia. However, player showcased exemplary determination with bat and occupied crease for over 100 balls. Ashwin's 128-ball 39* helped visitors salv a remarkable draw. 34-year-old looked confident against a lethal Australian fast-bowling attack, and even Tim Paine's persistent sledging failed to break his concentration.

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Apart from se two aforementioned Indian players, England's Test captain Joe Root also has a solid chance of claiming award. right-hander smashed a fabulous double-century against Sri Lanka in ir opening Test match of series. After his phemenal 228, star batsman also smashed 186 in following fixture against Sri Lanka. 

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Im source: AP