Image: Cricket in numbers details the most dominant players in bilateral series and major tournaments / © Cricinfo
As the greatest match winners in international cricket are often remembered for producing defining performances, the Player of the Series award remains one of the best measures of sustained excellence. Unlike a single match award, this recognition highlights players who consistently dominate an entire series with bat, ball, or all round contributions. Across the history of Test cricket, One Day Internationals, and T20 Internationals, only a handful of cricketers have reached double digits in Player of the Series awards. Virat Kohli currently leads the all time list, while legends like Sachin Tendulkar and Shakib Al Hasan also feature among the most decorated performers. Here is a closer look at the three players who have collected the highest number of Player of the Series awards in international cricket.
Virat Kohli sits at the top with an unmatched 22 Player of the Series awards in international cricket. His remarkable consistency across all three formats has helped him stay ahead of every other player. Kohli has won 3 awards in Test cricket, 12 in ODIs, and 7 in T20Is, showing his ability to dominate regardless of the format. His biggest success has come in the 50 over game, where he has repeatedly produced match winning performances over the entire series. His presence at the top reflects more than just individual brilliance. It highlights his ability to deliver under pressure and maintain elite standards over many years.
Sachin Tendulkar occupies second place with 20 Player of the Series awards. The legendary Indian batter earned 5 awards in Test cricket and an impressive 15 in ODIs, underlining his influence during an era when international cricket was packed with quality teams. Tendulkar’s record is particularly remarkable because he achieved it without playing T20 Internationals regularly, as the format arrived near the end of his career. His ODI record remains one of the finest ever and continues to be a benchmark for modern batters.
Bangladesh great Shakib Al Hasan ranks third with 17 Player of the Series awards. His record includes 5 in Tests, 7 in ODIs, and 5 in T20Is, making him one of the few genuine all format performers on the list. As an all rounder, Shakib has influenced the series with both bat and ball, helping Bangladesh achieve several memorable victories. His balanced record across all formats reflects his versatility and long standing importance to his national side.