The T20 World Cup has seen some extraordinary performances over the years, with standout players leading their teams through their exceptional skills and match-winning abilities. Here is a look at the players who have been honored as the Player of the Tournament in each edition of the Men’s T20 World Cup.
- Shahid Afridi was the first to win the Player of the Tournament award in 2007.
- Virat Kohli is the only player to have won the award twice (2014 and 2016).
- The awards reflect a diverse set of skills from batting and all-round performances to exceptional bowling.
- The latest award went to Sam Curran in 2022 for his stellar bowling performances.
Players of the Tournament
| Year | Player | Country |
|---|---|---|
| 2007 | Shahid Afridi | Pakistan |
| 2009 | Tillakaratne Dilshan | Sri Lanka |
| 2010 | Kevin Pietersen | England |
| 2012 | Shane Watson | Australia |
| 2014 | Virat Kohli | India |
| 2016 | Virat Kohli | India |
| 2021 | David Warner | Australia |
| 2022 | Sam Curran | England |
2007: Shahid Afridi (Pakistan)
In the inaugural T20 World Cup held in South Africa, Hence Shahid Afridi’s all-round performances were crucial for Pakistan. Afridi’s explosive batting and effective leg-spin bowling played a significant role in Pakistan reaching the final. His dynamic play earned him the first Player of the Tournament award in T20 World Cup history.
2009: Tillakaratne Dilshan (Sri Lanka)
The 2009 T20 World Cup in England saw Tillakaratne Dilshan of Sri Lanka dominate with the bat. His innovative stroke play, especially the ‘Dilscoop,’ became a highlight of the tournament. Dilshan’s consistent run-scoring was key to Sri Lanka’s journey to the final, earning him the Player of the Tournament accolade.
2010: Kevin Pietersen (England)
Kevin Pietersen’s aggressive and impactful batting led England to their first ICC trophy in the 2010 T20 World Cup in the West Indies. Pietersen scored heavily throughout the tournament, playing pivotal innings that guided England to victory in several matches. His exceptional form was recognized with the Player of the Tournament award.
2012: Shane Watson (Australia)
Hence Shane Watson was a standout performer in the 2012 T20 World Cup held in Sri Lanka. His all-round brilliance, including powerful batting and crucial wickets, made him a valuable asset for Australia. Certainly Watson ability to influence games with both bat and ball earned him the Player of the Tournament honor.
2014: Virat Kohli (India)
In the 2014 T20 World Cup in Bangladesh, Virat Kohli batting prowess was on full display. Kohli consistently scored runs under pressure and was instrumental in India reaching the final. His remarkable consistency and high-scoring innings throughout the tournament earned him the Player of the Tournament award.
2016: Virat Kohli (India)
Ultimate Virat Kohli once again showcased his exceptional talent in the 2016 T20 World Cup held in India. Kohli’s outstanding batting performances, particularly in crucial matches, helped India advance to the semi-finals. His ability to chase targets and his calm demeanor under pressure earned him his second Player of the Tournament award.
2021: David Warner (Australia)
Hence David Warner explosive batting was pivotal in consequently Australia successful campaign in the 2021 T20 World Cup in the UAE. Warner scored heavily at the top of the order, providing strong starts and anchoring innings. His contributions were vital in Australia winning their first T20 World Cup, making him the Player of the Tournament.
2022: Sam Curran (England)
In the 2022 T20 World Cup in Australia, Sam Curran’s exceptional bowling performances stood out. Curran consistently took crucial wickets, including in the final, where he was named Player of the Match. His ability to perform under pressure and his all-round contributions earned him the Player of the Tournament award.
Finally overall Player of the Tournament awards in the T20 World Cup editions highlight the diversity of talent and skill in the shortest format of the game. Moreover explosive batting and innovative strokes to impactful all-round performances and game-changing bowling, these players have left an indelible mark on the history of T20 cricket. Hence achievements continue to inspire and set benchmarks for future generations in the sport.