Most Player of the Match Awards in IPL : The Indian Premier League (IPL) is not just about runs, wickets, or sixes—it’s about moments of brilliance that change the game. And few honors recognize those moments better than the Player of the Match award. Since 2008, this award has symbolized the most impactful performance in a match, and only a few elite names have consistently risen above the rest.
Let’s dive into the list of players who have made the most match-winning impacts in IPL history—from AB de Villiers’ magic to the rise of Rohit Sharma in the 2025 season.
Table of Contents
Top 5 Players with the Most Player of the Match Awards in IPL (2008–2025)
1. AB de Villiers – 25 POTM Awards
Matches: 184 | Runs: 5162 | Strike Rate: 151.68
South Africa’s very own “Mr. 360,” AB de Villiers, sits comfortably at the top with a staggering 25 Player of the Match awards. Whether it was explosive finishes, impossible chases, or gravity-defying catches, de Villiers redefined what’s possible on the cricket field. Though he retired in 2021, his IPL legacy remains unmatched to this day.
2. Chris Gayle – 22 POTM Awards
Matches: 142 | Runs: 4965 | Strike Rate: 148.96
The “Universe Boss” didn’t just play the IPL—he owned it. Chris Gayle’s thunderous sixes and monstrous centuries often turned matches single-handedly. His 22 POTM awards are a testament to his game-changing potential, especially during his dominant years with RCB and Punjab Kings
3. Rohit Sharma – 20 POTM Awards
Matches: 264 | Runs: 6786 | Strike Rate: 131.61
Rohit Sharma isn’t just the most successful captain in IPL history with five titles—he’s also the Indian player with the most POTM awards. In IPL 2025, he broke his tie with Virat Kohli after a stunning fifty against CSK, registering his 20th match-winning performance. With elegant stroke play and clutch knocks, Rohit continues to prove why he’s one of IPL’s all-time greats.
4. Virat Kohli – 19 POTM Awards
Matches: 260 | Runs: 8326 | Strike Rate: 130.02
RCB’s heartbeat, Virat Kohli, remains a pillar of consistency in the IPL. Despite RCB not lifting the trophy (yet), Kohli has often carried the team on his shoulders. In IPL 2025, he notched his 19th POTM award with a match-winning 73* against Punjab Kings. With 322 runs already this season at an average of 64.40, he’s still very much in the race to top this list.
5. David Warner & MS Dhoni – 18 POTM Awards (Tied)
David Warner
Matches: 184 | Runs: 6565 | Strike Rate: 139.77
Warner, known for his explosive starts and 2016 title-winning campaign with Sunrisers Hyderabad, has claimed 18 POTM awards. His consistency at the top of the order makes him one of the most dangerous openers in T20 history.
MS Dhoni
Matches: 272 | Runs: 5373 | Strike Rate: 137.45
Captain Cool MS Dhoni’s calm finishing and leadership make him a fan favorite. While his 18 POTM awards might seem modest given his stature, they came in some of IPL’s most high-pressure moments
Getting a Player of the Match award isn’t just about big numbers—it’s about impact. Whether you’re chasing 200 or defending a low total, the award usually goes to the one who makes the decisive difference. It could be a game-changing 50, a fiery four-wicket haul, or a fielding brilliance that flips the momentum.
Updated IPL 2025 Rankings: Most Player of the Match Awards
| Rank | Player | POTM Awards | Matches | Runs |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | AB de Villiers | 25 | 184 | 5162 |
| 2 | Chris Gayle | 22 | 142 | 4965 |
| 3 | Rohit Sharma* | 20 | 264 | 6786 |
| 4 | Virat Kohli* | 19 | 260 | 8326 |
| 5 | David Warner | 18 | 184 | 6565 |
| 5 | MS Dhoni | 18 | 272 | 5373 |
The Player of the Match award is more than just a personal accolade—it’s a recognition of a cricketer’s ability to turn the tide. As the 2025 season heats up, the battle for the top continues, especially between Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma. Can either of them surpass AB de Villiers’ all-time record? Only time will tell.
FAQs
Who has won the most Player of the Match awards in IPL history?
AB de Villiers with 25 awards.
Which Indian player has the most Player of the Match awards in IPL?
Rohit Sharma with 20 awards.
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