The off-spinner has been named the ICC Men’s Player of the Month for November, following his sensational performances during South Africa’s 2–0 Test series whitewash of India in India.

Harmer was at his devastating best in the series opener in Kolkata, where he claimed match figures of four for 30 and four for 21. 

He followed that up with another masterclass in Guwahati, returning three for 64 and a staggering six for 37. The series ended with Harmer bagging 17 wickets at an average of 8.94 and an economy rate of just 1.91, underlining his dominance on subcontinental pitches.

Simon Harmer. Photo: Cricinfo

His purple patch began even before the India tour. On his return to international cricket, Harmer stole the show in Pakistan, taking 1/101 and 4/51 in Lahore, followed by 2/75 and 6/50 in Rawalpindi. 

Those efforts mean he has now claimed a staggering 30 wickets in his last four Tests for South Africa.

Harmer’s latest accolade also marks the second consecutive month that a Proteas player has been named ICC Men’s Player of the Month, after former North West Dragons captain Senuran Muthusamy received the honour in October for his outstanding Test series in Pakistan.

Speaking after being recognised for his pivotal role in South Africa’s first Test series win in India in more than 25 years, Harmer said the award was a reflection of the collective effort within the squad.

Senuran Muthusamy. Photo: Morgan Piek

“It’s a privilege to be named the ICC Men’s Player of the Month for November. Playing for my country is a dream come true, and anything else that comes from it is a bonus.

“I share this award with my teammates, coaches and support staff, and I dedicate it to my family, who allow me to live out my dream, often having to leave them at home to do so.”

Harmer beat Bangladesh’s Taijul Islam and Pakistan all-rounder Mohammad Nawaz to claim the ICC Men’s Player of the Month award for the first time in his career, capping off a truly memorable chapter in Proteas cricket.

OFM Sport/Morgan Piek dg