On April 14, 2025, Chennai Super Kings (CSK) stand-in captain MS Dhoni made IPL history by becoming the oldest player to win the Player of the Match award at 43 years and 280 days. In a thrilling match against Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) at Ekana Stadium, Dhoni’s unbeaten 26 off 11 balls, including four fours and a six, powered CSK to a five-wicket victory, chasing 167 with three balls to spare. This performance broke an 11-year-old record previously held by Pravin Tambe, who won the award at 42 years and 208 days in 2014. Dhoni, humbly crediting Afghan spinner Noor Ahmed for better bowling, also notched his 18th POTM award, tying with Virat Kohli for the joint second-highest among Indians. Take a look at the players who have won the most number of Player of the Match Awards

From Virat Kohli to MS Dhoni: IPL Stars with the Most Player of the Match Awards in IPL

KL Rahul – 15 POTM Awards

KL Rahul has carved a niche as one of the IPL’s most consistent batsmen, amassing 15 Player of the Match awards. Starting with Kings XI Punjab (now Punjab Kings) in 2014, Rahul’s elegant strokeplay and adaptability shone. He’s scored over 4,500 IPL runs with a strike rate around 135. Despite occasional criticism for pacing, his versatility across batting positions and sharp wicketkeeping add value. Rahul’s 15 awards reflect his impact, often turning games with calculated aggression.

Shane Watson – 16 POTM Awards

Shane Watson was a dynamic all-rounder who played for Rajasthan Royals, Royal Challengers Bangalore, and Chennai Super Kings, in his illustrious IPL career. He scored over 3,800 runs and took 92 wickets. Watson’s IPL legacy began with Rajasthan’s 2008 title win, where his all-round heroics earned multiple awards. His 117* off 57 balls in the 2018 CSK final against Sunrisers Hyderabad was a defining knock, securing a title and POTM.

Sunil Narine – 16 POTM Awards

Sunil Narine, with 16 Player of the Match awards, has been a Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) legend since 2012. The Trinidadian mystery spinner redefined T20 bowling with his deceptive spin, claiming over 180 wickets at an economy under 7. Narine’s 16 awards stem from his ability to choke runs and take crucial wickets, often in powerplays.

David Warner – 18 POTM Awards

David Warner is undoubtedly one of the most legendary batters in the IPL, boasting an impressive 18 Player of the Match awards. The Australian left-hander has graced the league since 2009, representing the Delhi Daredevils (now Capitals) and Sunrisers Hyderabad, amassing over 6,500 runs with a strike rate of 139.27. Known for his aggressive starts and remarkable consistency, Warner has claimed three Orange Caps in the seasons of 2015, 2017, and 2019.

Virat Kohli – 18 POTM Awards

Virat Kohli, with 18 Player of the Match awards, is the IPL’s run-scoring king, amassing over 8,000 runs for Royal Challengers Bangalore since 2008. Holding the record for most IPL centuries (8), his 2016 season (973 runs) remains unmatched. Kohli’s leadership saw RCB reach the 2016 final, though titles elude him. His 18 POTM honours stem from anchoring chases or setting daunting totals, with a 130.78 strike rate.

MS Dhoni – 18 POTM Awards

MS Dhoni won his 18th Player of the Match award, after steering Chennai Super Kings to a tricky total. Dhoni has scored over 5,300 runs, often finishing games with a 137.54 strike rate. Leading CSK to five titles (2010, 2011, 2018, 2021, 2023), Dhoni’s 16 captaincy POTM awards are unmatched.

Rohit Sharma – 19 POTM Awards

Rohit Sharma has often struggled to impose himself in the last four seasons of the IPL, but that shouldn't dim his achievement as one of the most destructive batters. He has clinched 19 Player of the Match awards. Leading MI to five titles (2013, 2015, 2017, 2019, 2020), he’s the joint-most successful captain.

Chris Gayle – 22 POTM Awards

Chris Gayle, the IPL’s ultimate six-hitting machine, won 22 POTM awards in his IPL career. Playing for Kolkata Knight Riders, Royal Challengers Bangalore, and Punjab Kings from 2008 to 2021, the “Universe Boss” scored 4,965 runs at a 148.96 strike rate. He also won Orange Cap twice. His 175* off 66 balls against Pune Warriors in 2013, with 17 sixes, remains the highest ever individal score.

AB de Villiers – 25 POTM Awards

With a record 25 Player of the Match awards, Ab de Villiers is the IPL’s greatest match-winner. Playing for Delhi Daredevils (2008–2010) and Royal Challengers Bangalore (2011–2021), “Mr. 360” scored 5,162 runs at a 151.68 strike rate. His 133* off 59 balls against Mumbai Indians in 2015, alongside Kohli, was a POTM masterclass.