The Indian Premier League (IPL) is the grandest stage for cricket’s finest talents — a tournament where pressure, passion, and performance collide. Over 17 seasons, numerous players have entertained millions with electrifying knocks, stunning spells, and unforgettable match-winning moments.
But only a few have consistently stood out, claiming the spotlight with their brilliance game after game. These players have earned the Most Man of the Match Awards in IPL history, symbolizing their unmatched ability to change matches single-handedly.
Let’s count down from Rank 10 to 1 and celebrate the cricketers who’ve been the heartbeat of countless IPL classics.
10. Sunil Narine – 15 Awards
- Team: Kolkata Knight Riders
- Matches: 177
- Man of the Match Awards: 15
Sunil Narine, the West Indian magician, redefined the role of a spinner in T20 cricket. His mysterious variations, unmatched control, and fearless pinch-hitting made him a dual threat for opponents. Narine not only bowled economical spells but also gave his team blazing starts as an opener.
His 15 Most Man of the Match Awards in IPL highlight his versatility and match-winning impact. Whether strangling batters with his spin or surprising bowlers with quick runs, Narine’s contributions made him one of KKR’s greatest ever players.
9. Shane Watson – 16 Awards
- Teams: Rajasthan Royals, Chennai Super Kings, Royal Challengers Bangalore
- Matches: 145
- Man of the Match Awards: 16
Shane Watson was a complete package — a hard-hitting top-order batsman and a clever seam bowler. His consistency across franchises earned him immense respect and admiration from fans worldwide.
One of his defining performances came in the 2018 IPL final, where his unbeaten 117* powered Chennai Super Kings to the title — a knock that epitomized his big-match temperament. Watson’s 16 Most Man of the Match Awards in IPL underline his ability to dominate both with bat and ball, and his legacy remains among the finest in IPL history.
8. Yusuf Pathan – 16 Awards
- Teams: Rajasthan Royals, Kolkata Knight Riders, Sunrisers Hyderabad
- Matches: 174
- Man of the Match Awards: 16
Yusuf Pathan was a force of nature. His explosive batting and handy off-spin made him one of the most impactful Indian all-rounders in IPL’s golden era. His 37-ball century for Rajasthan Royals in 2010 remains one of the fastest and most iconic knocks in IPL history.
Pathan’s fearless style, especially in run chases, earned him 16 Most Man of the Match Awards in IPL, proving his ability to turn games around in a matter of overs. His powerful striking and match temperament made him a true crowd favorite.
7. Ravindra Jadeja – 16 Awards
- Teams: Chennai Super Kings, Rajasthan Royals, Gujarat Lions
- Matches: 240
- Man of the Match Awards: 16
Ravindra Jadeja’s name has become synonymous with all-round excellence. As one of India’s premier spin-bowling all-rounders, Jadeja has consistently delivered with bat, ball, and in the field.
From game-changing cameos with the bat to crucial breakthroughs and unbelievable catches, Jadeja has done it all. His 16 Most Man of the Match Awards in IPL showcase his consistency and adaptability across different teams and roles. Every time he steps onto the field, he brings balance, energy, and an X-factor that very few possess.
6. MS Dhoni – 17 Awards
- Team: Chennai Super Kings
- Matches: 264
- Man of the Match Awards: 17
The name MS Dhoni is enough to send chills down the spine of every IPL bowler. Known as the “Captain Cool,” Dhoni has mastered the art of finishing games with nerves of steel.
His 17 Most Man of the Match Awards in IPL reflect his unmatched ability to handle pressure and produce breathtaking finishes. Beyond his batting, Dhoni’s calm captaincy, tactical brilliance, and influence on younger players have made him an icon of the IPL. He doesn’t just win matches — he defines eras.
5. David Warner – 18 Awards
- Teams: Sunrisers Hyderabad, Delhi Capitals
- Matches: 184
- Man of the Match Awards: 18
David Warner is the embodiment of consistency and aggression at the top of the order. His explosive starts and ability to anchor innings have made him one of the most successful overseas players in IPL history.
Warner has won the Orange Cap three times — a record for a foreign player — and his 18 Most Man of the Match Awards in IPL prove his dominance. Whether leading Sunrisers Hyderabad to the 2016 title or playing key knocks for Delhi, Warner has always been a player who delivers under pressure.
Read More:-
- BCCI Asks Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma to Play Domestic Cricket
- 2025 NBA Draft: Consensus Mock Draft, Top Picks & Player Analysis
4. Virat Kohli – 18 Awards
- Team: Royal Challengers Bangalore
- Matches: 252
- Man of the Match Awards: 18
Virat Kohli’s passion and intensity have defined the spirit of RCB and the IPL as a whole. He is the highest run-scorer in IPL history, and his performances have often been the difference between victory and defeat.
His 2016 season, where he amassed 973 runs with four centuries, is the stuff of legend. Kohli’s 18 Most Man of the Match Awards in IPL illustrate his ability to dominate any bowling attack through a mix of class, aggression, and determination. Every innings from Kohli carries intent — the will to fight and win.
3. Rohit Sharma – 19 Awards
- Teams: Deccan Chargers, Mumbai Indians
- Matches: 257
- Man of the Match Awards: 19
Rohit Sharma is not only one of the most successful IPL captains but also one of its most dependable match-winners. Known for his effortless timing and composure, Rohit has played countless innings that have shifted momentum in Mumbai Indians’ favor.
His tally of 19 Most Man of the Match Awards in IPL makes him the leading Indian player in this category. From elegant half-centuries to pressure-handling performances in finals, Rohit’s consistency, tactical brain, and leadership make him an all-time IPL great.
2. Chris Gayle – 22 Awards
- Teams: Royal Challengers Bangalore, Punjab Kings, Kolkata Knight Riders
- Matches: 142
- Man of the Match Awards: 22
Chris Gayle, known globally as the “Universe Boss,” changed the way T20 cricket is played. His record-breaking batting exploits turned matches into spectacles. The left-hander’s iconic 175* in 2013 remains the highest individual score in IPL history and one of the most memorable innings ever played.
Gayle’s 22 Most Man of the Match Awards in IPL represent not just statistics but an era of entertainment, dominance, and power-hitting mastery. Every time he walked to the crease, bowlers feared the worst, and fans prepared for fireworks.
1. AB de Villiers – 25 Awards
- Teams: Delhi Daredevils, Royal Challengers Bangalore
- Matches: 184
- Man of the Match Awards: 25
At the very top stands AB de Villiers, the South African genius who could play shots 360 degrees around the ground. His creativity, athleticism, and ability to perform under extreme pressure made him one of the most loved players in IPL history.
De Villiers’ record of 25 Most Man of the Match Awards in IPL showcases his brilliance and consistency over the years. Whether rescuing RCB from collapse or chasing impossible targets, AB made the extraordinary look effortless. He wasn’t just a player — he was a phenomenon who redefined entertainment in cricket.
Quick Table – Most Man of the Match Awards in IPL History (Top 10)
| Rank | Player Name | Team(s) | Matches | Man of the Match Awards |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | AB de Villiers | Delhi Daredevils, RCB | 184 | 25 |
| 2 | Chris Gayle | KKR, RCB, Punjab Kings | 142 | 22 |
| 3 | Rohit Sharma | Deccan Chargers, Mumbai Indians | 257 | 19 |
| 4 | Virat Kohli | Royal Challengers Bangalore | 252 | 18 |
| 5 | David Warner | Delhi Capitals, Sunrisers Hyderabad | 184 | 18 |
| 6 | MS Dhoni | Chennai Super Kings | 264 | 17 |
| 7 | Ravindra Jadeja | CSK, RR, GL | 240 | 16 |
| 8 | Yusuf Pathan | RR, KKR, SRH | 174 | 16 |
| 9 | Shane Watson | RR, CSK, RCB | 145 | 16 |
| 10 | Sunil Narine | Kolkata Knight Riders | 177 | 15 |
FAQs – Most Man of the Match Awards in IPL History
1.Who has the most Man of the Match awards in IPL history?
AB de Villiers leads with 25 awards, thanks to his explosive batting for Royal Challengers Bangalore.
2.Which Indian player has the most Man of the Match awards?
Virat Kohli tops among Indians with over 20 awards, built on years of consistent match-winning innings.
3.How is the Man of the Match chosen in IPL?
The award goes to the player with the most impactful performance, whether in batting, bowling, or all-round play.
4.Who can break AB de Villiers’ record in future?
Jos Buttler, Rashid Khan, and Suryakumar Yadav are strong contenders to surpass the record for Most Man of the Match Awards in upcoming seasons.