ICC Women's Player of the Month for May 2026 announced

England pacer Lauren Bell has been named the ICC Women's Player of the Month for May 2026.

Bell edged past fellow nominees Maddy Green (New Zealand) and Gull Feroza (Pakistan) to claim the monthly award for the first time in her career.

The right-armer was in top form for England across formats during May, as she warmed up for the ongoing ICC Women's T20 World Cup in style.

The fast bowler finished as the leading wicket-taker in England's ODI series against New Zealand, returning figures of 2/38 in the opening ODI before claiming 3/20 in the third match. 

In the two games, Bell picked up five wickets at an average of 13.40 and an economy rate of 4.36.

Bell carried that form into the subsequent T20I series against New Zealand and India. 

In four T20Is, she claimed eight wickets at an average of 14 and an economy rate of 7.00. 

Her standout performances included figures of 2/23 in the opening T20I against New Zealand and 3/34 in the first T20I against India at Chelmsford, underlining her importance to England's bowling attack for the T20 World Cup.

Speaking on bagging the coveted award, Lauren Bell said, “I’m delighted to win this award. Performing well in front of home crowds is always fun and hugely satisfying. Playing for England is a huge honour and I am just proud to be able to contribute to our team!

“Women’s cricket has been growing at an incredible pace, and the fantastic crowds at the Women’s T20 World Cup really highlight that progress. The support from fans has been amazing, and I hope to give them more to cheer over the next few weeks”