Winning the Player of the Match (POTM) award in ODIs is a testament to individual brilliance and the ability to carry a team to victory. These ten cricketing legends, celebrated as some of the most Inspiring Player of the Match Winners, have consistently delivered match-defining performances, inspiring generations with their talent, determination, and leadership. Here are the most inspiring POTM winners in ODI history.
List of Top 10 Most Inspiring Player of the Match Winners in ODIs
10. Brian Lara (West Indies)
Brian Lara was a genius with the bat, capable of single-handedly dominating bowling attacks. Known for his elegant strokeplay and fearless attitude, Lara often lifted the West Indies in difficult situations. His ability to perform under pressure made him one of the most respected and admired cricketers of his generation, earning him a place among the most Inspiring Player of the Match Winners in cricket history.
| Player | Span | Matches | POTM Awards |
|---|---|---|---|
| BC Lara | 1990–2007 | 299 | 30 |
9. Kumar Sangakkara (Sri Lanka)
A master of timing and placement, Kumar Sangakkara combined elegance with remarkable consistency. As a wicketkeeper-batter and a leader, he delivered under pressure and played key roles in crucial games. His calm demeanor and commitment to the team made him a true match-winner and one of the most Inspiring Player of the Match Winners in the history of Sri Lankan cricket.
| Player | Span | Matches | POTM Awards |
|---|---|---|---|
| KC Sangakkara | 2000–2015 | 404 | 31 |
8. Sourav Ganguly (India)
Sourav Ganguly was the fearless leader who reshaped Indian cricket with his aggression and confidence. A stylish left-handed opener, Ganguly’s performances often turned the tide for India. As one of the most Inspiring Player of the Match Winners, his leadership, passion, and ability to deliver in pressure moments earned him immense respect and numerous match awards.
| Player | Span | Matches | POTM Awards |
|---|---|---|---|
| SC Ganguly | 1992–2007 | 311 | 31 |
7. Vivian Richards (West Indies)
Viv Richards was the original power-hitter and one of the most intimidating players of his era. Playing without a helmet, his fearless batting demolished bowling attacks. As one of the most “Inspiring Player of the Match Winners in ODI history” he brought style and swagger to the game, dominating with both technique and confidence, and leaving a lasting legacy in ODI cricket.
| Player | Span | Matches | POTM Awards |
|---|---|---|---|
| IVA Richards | 1975–1991 | 187 | 31 |
6. Shahid Afridi (Pakistan)
Shahid “Boom Boom” Afridi was the ultimate entertainer and match-winner. Known for his explosive batting and handy leg-spin, Afridi had the knack for changing games in moments. His unpredictable style thrilled fans and made him one of the most impactful players in ODI history.
| Player | Span | Matches | POTM Awards |
|---|---|---|---|
| Shahid Afridi | 1996–2015 | 398 | 32 |
5. Ricky Ponting (Australia)
Ricky Ponting was a fierce competitor and one of the greatest captains in ODI history. His sharp cricketing mind and ability to perform in pressure matches, especially World Cup finals, made him a consistent match-winner. He led from the front, inspiring his team with both bat and leadership.
| Player | Span | Matches | POTM Awards |
|---|---|---|---|
| RT Ponting | 1995–2012 | 375 | 32 |
4. Jacques Kallis (South Africa)
Jacques Kallis was the perfect blend of power and composure, contributing as both a top-class batter and a reliable bowler. He consistently performed in pressure situations and was the go-to man for South Africa. His balance and discipline made him one of the most valuable match-winners.
| Player | Span | Matches | POTM Awards |
|---|---|---|---|
| JH Kallis | 1996–2014 | 328 | 32 |
3. Virat Kohli (India)
Virat Kohli is the modern-day maestro of ODI chases and a standout among the Inspiring Player of the Match Winners. With intensity, hunger, and unmatched consistency, Kohli has made match-winning a habit. His fearless approach, ability to anchor innings, and fire to win games have turned him into a true icon of this generation.
| Player | Span | Matches | POTM Awards |
|---|---|---|---|
| V Kohli | 2008–2025 | 302 | 43 |
2. Sanath Jayasuriya (Sri Lanka)
Jayasuriya was a pioneer in power-hitting during the early overs. With blistering batting and effective left-arm spin, he turned games on their head. His fearless mindset and ability to deliver in crunch moments made him one of the most dynamic and entertaining match-winners in ODI history.
| Player | Span | Matches | POTM Awards |
|---|---|---|---|
| ST Jayasuriya | 1989–2011 | 445 | 48 |
1. Sachin Tendulkar (India)
Sachin Tendulkar is the gold standard of ODI cricket and one of the most Inspiring Player of the Match Winners in history. With 62 Player of the Match awards, he was India’s biggest match-winner for over two decades. His technical brilliance, humility, and incredible ability to perform under pressure earned him global respect and admiration as one of the greatest cricketers ever.
| Player | Span | Matches | POTM Awards |
|---|---|---|---|
| SR Tendulkar | 1989–2012 | 463 | 62 |
READ MORE:
