Most Player of the Series Awards

Earning the Most Player of the Series Awards in Test cricket is a significant accomplishment. It reflects a player’s steady and outstanding performance across the entire series. Now, let’s explore the top 10 players who have received the highest number of these awards.

let’s take a look at the Top 10 Most Player of the Series Awards in Test Cricket:

10. Joe Root (England)

Joe Root stands out as one of England’s finest contemporary batsmen. Between 2012 and 2024, he has appeared in 152 matches across 50 series, securing the highest number of Most Player of the Series Awards. His skill to excel in diverse conditions makes him an essential asset for the England team.

Player	Span	Matches	Series	Awards
Joe Root	2012-2024	152	50	6

9. Curtly Ambrose (West Indies)

Curtly Ambrose, a renowned fast bowler, was famous for his pinpoint accuracy. Between 1988 and 2000, he participated in 98 matches over 27 series and claimed the highest number of Most Player of the Series Awards.

Player	Span	Matches	Series	Awards
Curtly Ambrose	1988-2000	98	27	6

8. Malcolm Marshall (West Indies)

Malcolm Marshall is remembered as one of the finest fast bowlers in cricket history. Between 1978 and 1991, he featured in 81 matches across 21 series, securing the Most Player of the Series Awards thanks to his remarkable speed and talent.

Player	Span	Matches	Series	Awards
Malcolm Marshall	1978-1991	81	21	6

7. Shivnarine Chanderpaul (West Indies)

Shivnarine Chanderpaul, known for his distinctive batting technique and resilience, won the Most Player of the Series Awards. Between 1994 and 2015, he appeared in 164 matches over 60 series, often serving as the backbone of the West Indies’ batting lineup.

Player	Span	Matches	Series	Awards
S Chanderpaul	1994-2015	164	60	7

6. Wasim Akram (Pakistan)

Wasim Akram, famously known as the Sultan of Swing, was an expert in reverse swing bowling. Between 1985 and 2002, he took part in 104 matches across 43 series, earning the highest number of Most Player of the Series Awards thanks to his exceptional all-round performances.

Player	Span	Matches	Series	Awards
Wasim Akram	1985-2002	104	43	7

5. Shane Warne (Australia)

Shane Warne, widely regarded as the greatest leg-spinner ever, secured the Most Player of the Series Awards. Between 1992 and 2007, he featured in 145 matches across 46 series, weaving his magic with the ball to achieve remarkable success.

Player	Span	Matches	Series	Awards
Shane Warne	1992-2007	145	46	8

4. Richard Hadlee (New Zealand)

Sir Richard Hadlee was an exceptional all-rounder representing New Zealand. Between 1973 and 1990, he competed in 86 matches over 33 series, earning the highest number of Most Player of the Series Awards due to his reliable contributions with both the bat and ball.

Player	Span	Matches	Series	Awards
Richard Hadlee	1973-1990	86	33	8

3. Imran Khan (Pakistan)

Imran Khan, the iconic all-rounder and former captain of Pakistan, claimed the Most Player of the Series Awards. From 1971 to 1992, he played 88 matches across 28 series, consistently demonstrating his leadership skills and match-winning prowess.

Player	Span	Matches	Series	Awards
Imran Khan	1971-1992	88	28	8

2. Jacques Kallis (South Africa)

Jacques Kallis, regarded as one of cricket’s finest all-rounders, secured the Most Player of the Series Awards during his career. Between 1995 and 2013, he featured in 166 matches across 61 series, making significant contributions with both the bat and ball.

Player	Span	Matches	Series	Awards
Jacques Kallis	1995-2013	166	61	9

1. Ravichandran Ashwin (India)

Ravichandran Ashwin ranks among the most accomplished spinners in the history of Test cricket. He shares the record for the Most Player of the Series Awards, having claimed 11 in total. Since making his debut in 2011, Ashwin has been a crucial match-winner for India, consistently deceiving batters with his wide range of off-spin variations. Over 44 series and 106 matches, his adaptability to various conditions and useful contributions with the bat have made him an integral part of the team. His standout performances have frequently shifted the momentum in India’s favor, cementing his legacy as a modern-day legend.

Player	Span	Matches	Series	Awards
R Ashwin	2011-2024	106	44	11

Conclusion

The Most Player of the Series Awards in Test cricket highlight the game’s true match-winners—those who consistently deliver exceptional performances over multiple games. From legendary fast bowlers and masterful spinners to world-class all-rounders and prolific batters, these players have left a lasting impact on the sport. Their ability to influence the outcome of entire series showcases not only individual brilliance but also the mental and physical resilience required at the highest level. As Test cricket continues to evolve, these award-winners stand as a testament to sustained excellence and match-defining contributions across generations.

FAQ`s

Q1: What is the Player of the Series award in Test cricket?

A: The Player of the Series award is given to the most outstanding performer across all matches in a Test series. It recognizes consistent excellence with the bat, ball, or both.

Q2: Who holds the record for the most Player of the Series awards in Test cricket?

A: As of now, Ravichandran Ashwin holds the record, with 11 Player of the Series awards.

Q3: Why is the Player of the Series award significant?

A: It reflects a player’s sustained impact throughout an entire series, often playing a decisive role in their team’s success. It highlights both skill and consistency.