Player of the Match in Cricket — How It Is Decided
The Player of the Match award is given to the cricketer who contributed most to the outcome of a match. Learn who decides the award, what criteria are used, and why it is sometimes controversial.
The Player of the Match (POTM) award — sometimes called 'Man of the Match' in historical usage — is given to the cricketer from either side who is judged to have contributed the most to the match outcome. It is presented at the post-match ceremony and comes with prize money (the amount varies by match type and sponsor).
Who decides Player of the Match?
In ICC events (World Cups, Champions Trophy, etc.), a nominated match referee or an independent panel of commentators/broadcasters selects the award. In bilateral series, the award panel varies by host board — some use a media panel, others use a single match referee's decision. There is no universal, fixed rule.
Criteria used
- Impact on the match result — did this performance directly cause the outcome?
- Runs scored vs match situation — a 50 in a run chase is often valued more than a 100 in a comfortable position.
- Wickets taken and economy — a 4-wicket haul in a tight match matters more than the same spell in a blowout.
- All-round performances — a player who scores 60 AND takes 3 wickets frequently wins regardless of other candidates.
- Winning team bias — POTM is almost always from the winning side, though exceptional losing performances (e.g. a century in a defeat) can win it.
Controversies
POTM decisions are regularly contested by fans and pundits. Common debates: a team player (e.g. a captain who held the chase together) vs. a stats-monster (e.g. a batter who scored a century but on a flat pitch); or a fielder whose run-out turned the match vs. a bowler with more visible figures.
Frequently asked questions
What is the Player of the Match award in cricket?
The Player of the Match award is given to the cricketer judged to have contributed most to the match outcome. It is decided by an independent panel or match referee and usually comes with prize money.
Is the Player of the Match always from the winning side?
Almost always, yes. However, exceptional individual performances in defeat — like a century in a losing cause — can result in the award going to a player from the losing team.
What was historically called 'Man of the Match'?
The award was historically called 'Man of the Match', but has been rebranded to 'Player of the Match' in ICC events to be inclusive of women's cricket. Many broadcasters and series still use both terms.