Cricket, a game of uncertainties and triumphs, often rewards its players with the prestigious Player of the Match (POM) award. While this accolade is significant in any cricketing contest, earning it in ICC Tournaments elevates a cricketer’s achievement to new heights. The ongoing ODI World Cup 2023 has brought the spotlight back on these exceptional players who have consistently shone on the grandest stage of international cricket. In this blog post, we’ll delve into the careers of six cricketing legends who have secured the Player of the Match title most frequently in ICC tournaments.
Virat Kohli: Breaking Records, Setting Standards
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In a remarkable feat on Sunday, Virat Kohli seized a new world record by scoring 101 runs against South Africa in Kolkata. This stellar performance marked Kohli’s 12th time receiving the Player of the Match award in ICC tournaments, placing him at the forefront of cricketing excellence. Notably, Kohli has already claimed this title twice in the ongoing World Cup 2023.
Chris Gayle: The Caribbean Phenom’s Dominance
Following closely is the explosive West Indian batsman, Chris Gayle, who held the record before Kohli’s recent achievement. Gayle boasts an impressive tally of 11 Player of the Match awards in ICC events, with his century against England in the 2016 T20 World Cup standing out as a memorable highlight.
Sachin Tendulkar: The Cricketing Deity’s Legacy
Securing the third spot and standing as the second Indian on this list is none other than the cricketing deity, Sachin Tendulkar. With a total of 10 Player of the Match awards in ICC events, Tendulkar’s standout performance came in the 2011 World Cup semi-final against Pakistan, where he crafted a crucial innings of 85 runs.
Rohit Sharma: Leading with Precision
Recent Indian team captain, Rohit Sharma, claims the fourth position on this illustrious list. Joining the ranks with Virat Kohli and Sachin Tendulkar as an Indian, Rohit Sharma boasts 10 Player of the Match awards in ICC tournaments. Noteworthy among these is his unforgettable innings of 140 runs against Pakistan in the 2019 World Cup.
Shane Watson: The Australian All-Rounder’s Brilliance
Former Australian all-rounder Shane Watson secured the fifth spot with 10 Player of the Match awards in ICC tournaments. One of his most memorable performances was in the 2006 Champions Trophy final, where Watson contributed significantly with both bat and ball, scoring 57 runs and taking 2 wickets.
Mahela Jayawardene: Sri Lankan Grace on the Field
Former Sri Lankan captain Mahela Jayawardene gracefully holds the sixth position with 10 Man of the Match awards in ICC events. Among these, his most remarkable innings was a century against Zimbabwe in the 2010 T20 World Cup.
Frequently Asked Questions on Player of the Match (FAQ)
Q: How many times has Virat Kohli won the Player of the Match in ICC tournaments?
Virat Kohli has been awarded the Player of the Match title 12 times in ICC tournaments, showcasing his consistent excellence on the international stage.
Q: What is Chris Gayle’s most memorable performance in ICC events?
Chris Gayle’s century against England in the 2016 T20 World Cup is considered one of his most memorable performances in ICC tournaments.
Q: Which innings by Rohit Sharma earned him the Player of the Match in the 2019 World Cup?
Rohit Sharma’s outstanding innings of 140 runs against Pakistan in the 2019 World Cup secured him the Player of the Match award.
Q: How many times has Rohit Sharma won the Player of the Match in ICC tournaments?
Rohit Sharma has been awarded the Player of the Match title 10 times in ICC tournaments.
Q: How many times has Sachin Tendulkar won the Player of the Match in ICC tournaments?
Sachin Tendulkar has been awarded the Player of the Match title 10 times in ICC tournaments.
READ MORE: One Match Five Records for Virat Kohli in ODI World Cup 2023
In conclusion, these six cricketing maestros have defied all odds, leaving an indelible mark on ICC tournaments with their exceptional performances. As the ODI World Cup 2023 unfolds, cricket enthusiasts eagerly anticipate witnessing more moments of brilliance from these iconic players, hoping to see them add to their remarkable tally of Player of the Match awards. The stage is set, and the cricketing world is ready for the next chapter in this saga of excellence.