In the world of cricket, winning a Player of the Match award is a testament to a player’s match-winning abilities. Over the years, some legends have consistently dominated ODIs with remarkable performances. This list highlights the top 5 players with the Most PoTM awards in ODIs, showcasing their skill, consistency, and match-winning brilliance. These players have left a lasting impact on cricket and are remembered for their exceptional contributions to their teams.
List of Top 5 Players with Most PoTM Awards in ODIs
5. Ricky Ponting – Australia’s Master Finisher

Ricky Ponting, the legendary Australian captain, was known for his fearless batting and sharp cricketing mind. Throughout his career, he showcased his ability to perform in crucial situations, whether chasing big totals or setting formidable targets. His consistency and aggressive style earned him 32 Player of the Match awards, making him one of the top achievers in the list of the Most PoTM awards in ODIs. Ponting’s timing, powerful strokes, and ability to read the game allowed him to dominate bowlers across the globe, making him a nightmare for opponents.
Apart from batting, Ponting’s leadership on the field inspired his teammates to elevate their game. His strategic captaincy, combined with match-winning innings, often changed the course of games. Even after retirement, Ponting is remembered as one of the most successful ODI cricketers, and his tally of PoTM awards cements his legacy among the greatest in cricket history.
| Matches | Innings | Runs | PoTM Awards |
|---|---|---|---|
| 375 | 365 | 13,704 | 32 |
4. Jacques Kallis – South Africa’s Perfect All-Rounder

Jacques Kallis is regarded as one of the finest all-rounders in cricket history. His ability to contribute with both bat and ball made him an invaluable asset for South Africa. With 32 Player of the Match awards, Kallis ranks high among players with the Most PoTM awards in ODIs. He could anchor innings when the team was under pressure and deliver critical breakthroughs with the ball, showing remarkable versatility and cricketing intelligence.
Kallis’ consistency over his career meant he was often the difference between victory and defeat for his team. His calm demeanor, technical proficiency, and match awareness allowed him to excel in pressure situations. By performing consistently in every department, Kallis established himself as a true cricketing legend, leaving a lasting mark on ODI cricket history.
| Matches | Innings | Runs | PoTM Awards |
|---|---|---|---|
| 328 | 314 | 11,579 | 32 |
3. Virat Kohli – India’s Chase Master

Virat Kohli is known as the modern king of chases in ODI cricket. His ability to stay calm under pressure and build remarkable innings has earned him 45 Player of the Match awards, ranking him among the top players with the Most PoTM awards in ODIs. Kohli’s consistency in chasing big targets and performing against top teams makes him one of the most reliable batsmen of his era. His footwork, precision, and mental strength allow him to take games away from the opposition with style and control.
Kohli’s dominance is not limited to batting alone; his running between the wickets, situational awareness, and adaptability have turned many close encounters into memorable victories. His ability to deliver match-winning performances consistently has made him a modern legend and an inspiration for upcoming cricketers. With every innings, Kohli strengthens his position in the list of players with the Most PoTM awards in ODIs.
| Matches | Innings | Runs | PoTM Awards |
|---|---|---|---|
| 272 | 265 | 12,898 | 45 |
2. Sanath Jayasuriya – Sri Lanka’s Explosive Opener

Sanath Jayasuriya revolutionized ODI cricket with his aggressive batting style and ability to dominate the first 15 overs. With 48 Player of the Match awards, he ranks second among players with the Most PoTM awards in ODIs. Jayasuriya’s fearless approach and attacking stroke play often set the tone for his team, providing Sri Lanka with explosive starts that gave them a strong advantage in matches.Beyond batting, Jayasuriya contributed as a reliable left-arm spinner, picking up crucial wickets when required. His all-round capabilities, combined with his fearless nature, made him a game-changer in ODIs.
Even years after retirement, he remains a legendary figure in cricket history, celebrated for his ability to dominate games and consistently earn recognition among the top performers with the Most PoTM awards in ODIs.
| Matches | Innings | Runs | PoTM Awards |
|---|---|---|---|
| 445 | 433 | 13,430 | 48 |
1. Sachin Tendulkar – The Greatest ODI Legend

Sachin Tendulkar, fondly known as the Little Master, is the highest achiever in ODI cricket with 62 Player of the Match awards, making him the undisputed leader in the list of players with the Most PoTM awards in ODIs. His ability to dominate bowlers, build innings under pressure, and consistently deliver match-winning performances has made him a cricketing icon worldwide. Tendulkar’s career spanned over two decades, and he remained a symbol of excellence and reliability for India.
From quick-fire centuries to steady chases, Tendulkar’s adaptability and unmatched skill made him a player every team feared. His talent, combined with extraordinary dedication and cricketing intelligence, allowed him to dominate world cricket for years. His record of PoTM awards is a testament to his brilliance, leadership, and legendary status among the greatest ODI players ever.
| Matches | Innings | Runs | PoTM Awards |
|---|---|---|---|
| 463 | 452 | 18,426 | 62 |
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FAQ
Who has the most Player of the Match awards in ODI cricket?
Sachin Tendulkar leads with 62 Player of the Match awards.
How many players have more than 40 PoTM awards in ODIs?
Three players – Sachin Tendulkar (62), Sanath Jayasuriya (48), Virat Kohli (45).
Which all-rounder is in the top 5 for Most PoTM awards in ODIs?
Jacques Kallis, with 32 PoTM awards.
Are there any active players in the top 5 Most PoTM awards in ODIs?
Yes, Virat Kohli is still active.
Which players have 32 Player of the Match awards?
Jacques Kallis and Ricky Ponting both have 32 PoTM awards.
