Maharaj wins ICC Player of the Month for April

Maharaj was instrumental in the Proteas recent triumph over Bangladesh in their two-test series picking up 16 wickets in the two test matches at an average of just over 12.

The left-arm spinner bagged two seven wicket hauls in the second innings of both test matches and going second on the list of all-time with takers for South African spinners in the process.

He now sits 20 wickets behind fellow Durbanite Hugh Tayfield who took 170 wickets in his test career. Maharaj is now tenth on the all-time wickets list for South African bowlers.

Speaking after receiving the award, the 32 year-old was delighted that he could contribute to the success of the side as they look to continue their strong form in the ICC World Test Championship.

“I’m honoured and privileged to receive the ICC Player of the Month award for April and I want to thank my teammates for helping me win this award,” Maharaj said.

“I’m really happy with how the team has performed this past season and I hope we can build on this to reach greater heights as a unit.”

The Proteas next assignment is an important tour of England where they will look to put themselves in the running for a spot in the final of the ICC World Test Championship.

Australian batter and wicket-keeper Alyssa Healy was awarded the ICC Women's Cricket of the Month award after her match-winning 170 in the ICC Women's Cricket World Cup final against England.