Justin Greaves and Hayley Matthews win ICC Player of the Month for July 2026

The ICC has announced Justin Greaves as its Men's Player of the Month and Hayley Matthews as its Women's Player of the Month for July 2026. West Indies claimed both awards in the same cycle, with Matthews adding a fifth such recognition to her collection, more than any other player in the award's history.

Greaves accumulated 215 runs at an average of 71.66 and claimed 8 wickets at an average of 10.25 across two Tests during the month. He was nominated alongside Harry Brook of England and Tanzid Hasan of Bangladesh before being confirmed as the winner.

Matthews put together 265 runs at an average of 132.50 and took 7 wickets at an average of 17.57 across three ODIs in July 2026. She was nominated alongside Nat Sciver-Brunt of England and Harshitha Samarawickrama of Sri Lanka for the women's award.

"I have had a memorable month playing at home, and to have contributed with both bat and ball against Sri Lanka and Pakistan has been particularly special for me," said Greaves to ICC.

How did Greaves earn the men's award in July 2026?

Greaves delivered match-winning contributions in both Tests West Indies contested during the month. He struck 180 in the first Test against Sri Lanka in Antigua, then returned bowling figures of 5/27 and 2/12 against Pakistan in Trinidad. West Indies won the series against Sri Lanka 1-0 and drew the series against Pakistan.

"Having impactful performances in Test cricket is always something I will cherish, especially when they come in front of our home fans," said Greaves.

"I am pleased to have played my part in some important performances for the team, and I hope I can continue to make meaningful contributions. I thank my team-mates and team staff for their support and look forward to building on this momentum in the coming months," he added.

How did Matthews secure her record fifth award?

Matthews was the dominant figure in West Indies' 3-0 ODI series sweep against Ireland in July 2026. She posted a career-best 159 in the opening match and followed that with 100 in the second ODI, while also contributing with the ball through figures of 3/52 and 2/34 in those two games respectively.

Her all-round output across the three-match series set her apart from the other nominees and secured her a fifth ICC Women's Player of the Month award.

"I am thrilled to win the ICC Player of the Month award once again. It is just as special as the previous ones, and I hope it inspires me to keep raising my standards, contributing to the West Indies, and winning more such awards in the future," said Matthews.

"It is an exciting time for women’s cricket, with more attention and interest than ever before. I am proud to contribute to its growth through my performances and thank the ICC for its continued support of the women’s game," she added.