Wisden Cricketers of the Year Explained
What the Wisden Cricketers of the Year award is, how five cricketers are selected each year, and why it remains one of cricket's most prestigious honours.
What Are the Wisden Cricketers of the Year?
The Wisden Cricketers of the Year is an annual honour awarded by Wisden Cricketers' Almanack — the world's most authoritative cricket publication, first published in 1864. Five cricketers are selected each year by the Wisden editor, based on their performances during the previous English summer. The award has been made continuously since 1889, making it the longest-running individual cricket honour in existence.
Selection Criteria
The five cricketers are chosen primarily for their impact during the English season — performances in Tests against England, county cricket, or the English summer's major fixtures. International performances elsewhere in the year are also considered. The selection is entirely the editor's prerogative — there is no formal voting or nomination process.
One-Time Rule
Wisden's one-time rule is significant: a player can be named a Wisden Cricketer of the Year only once in their career. This creates a meaningful distinction — players who have already been honoured cannot be repeated, regardless of subsequent performances. An exception is made for the Wisden Leading Cricketer in the World award, which is separate and can be awarded to the same player multiple times.
Leading Cricketer in the World
Since 2004, Wisden has also named a Leading Cricketer in the World — a single player who has been the outstanding performer across all formats globally in the calendar year. This award is not subject to the one-time rule and can be won by the same player multiple times. Virat Kohli, Steve Smith, and Ben Stokes have each won it multiple times.
Frequently asked questions
How long has Wisden been published?
Wisden Cricketers' Almanack has been published annually since 1864, making it one of the oldest continuously published sports books in the world. The 2024 edition was the 161st.
Can an overseas player win Wisden Cricketer of the Year?
Yes — the award is open to any cricketer who has performed prominently during the English season, regardless of nationality. West Indian, Australian, Indian, and South African players have regularly been named.
Who has won the most Wisden Cricketer of the Year awards?
No player can win more than once due to the one-time rule. However, multiple players from the same county or national team can win in the same year. The most famous collection of Wisden winners in one year is often tied to dominant tours of England.