New Zealand seam bowler Nathan Smith was named the best player in men’s international cricket in June 2026 for his performance against England during a three-match Test series. New Zealand won the 3-match Test series by 2-1, backed by Nathan Smith’s exceptional bowling spells.

India captain Shubman Gill and Bangladesh star Mossadek Hossain were also in the race to become the ICC Men's Player of the Month for June 2026. Overtaking all other contenders, New Zealand’s fast bowler Smith appeared as the best of the month.

Why did the ICC name Nathan Smith as the ICC Men's Player of the Month for June 2026?

He finished the England vs New Zealand Test series as the leading wicket-taker, with a series haul of 16 wickets that came at an average of 23.00. In the second innings of the first Test at Lord’s, Nathan Smith returned with a standout bowling figure of six for 70.

Due to his difference-creating performance between the two teams, the International Cricket Council awarded him the ICC Men's Player of Month for June 2026.

“This is really special. It was a great tour of England for the boys, and this is pretty cool. I don’t usually play for individual awards, but it’s nice to receive this recognition and, more importantly, to have contributed to a series win,” he mentioned after being awarded the special award in the Men’s international cricket segment.

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