The Man of the Match (POTM) award is presented to the player who makes the most significant contribution during a match. While it is usually straightforward to pick the standout performer, close matches with multiple key contributors can make the decision more challenging.
First introduced in cricket, this award has since been adopted by other sports to recognize exceptional individual performances in a contest. Key parameters for the award typically include runs, wickets, key moments, and overall impact on the match’s outcome.
Criteria for selecting Man of the Match in Cricket
The process of selecting the “Man of the Match” (MOTM) may vary depending on the format—ODI, T20I, or Test—but the performance criteria largely remain consistent. Key factors typically include runs scored, wickets taken, match-changing moments, and the overall impact a player has on the outcome of the game.
On-field Performance – Batting & Bowling
Batters are often the primary recipients of the “Man of the Match” award, especially when they score the highest runs or play match-winning knocks under pressure. This explains why players like Sachin Tendulkar, with the most MOTM awards in cricket, have dominated this category.
However, bowlers, especially those with game-changing performances, also earn recognition. Legendary spinners like Muttiah Muralitharan and Shane Warne have frequently won the award for their single-handedly impactful performances, showcasing the importance of both batters and bowlers in match-deciding moments.
Match Impact
With the rise of limited-overs cricket, players who make a significant impact in a short time have become essential. In T20Is, lower-order batters are often selected for their ability to strike quickly and change the game. Modern cricket has increasingly recognized these players, awarding them the “Man of the Match” for their crucial cameos that help propel their teams to victory.
All-Round Performance
In the past, all-rounders often dominated the “Man of the Match” awards due to their contributions with both bat and ball, especially in Test cricket. South African all-rounder Jacques Kallis holds the record for the most MOTM awards in Test cricket. However, as the focus in modern cricket has shifted towards players with specialized roles, the frequency of all-rounder-led MOTM performances has decreased.
Who Decides Man of the Match in Cricket
The “Man of the Match” (MOTM) award is typically decided by the umpires and commentary panel, as they are closest to the match and evaluate the performances. Umpires closely monitor all aspects of the game, from batting to bowling, and consult team captains during interviews. Commentary panels, consisting of former players and experts, also play a crucial role in selecting the MOTM.
Although the award often goes to a player from the winning team, exceptional performances from the losing team can also be recognized. Notable examples include Sachin Tendulkar, who won MOTM nine times from a losing side.
The player with the most MOTM awards in Test cricket is Jacques Kallis with 23, while Sachin Tendulkar leads in ODIs with 62 awards. In T20Is, Virat Kohli holds the record with 16, and Austrian cricketer Andrea-Mae Zepeda made history by winning three consecutive MOTM awards in a series.
