Ravichandran Ashwin has continued his phenomenal rise in cricket by equaling the legendary Muttiah Muralitharan’s record for the most Player of the Series (POS) awards in Test cricket. With 11 Player of the Series awards each, Ashwin and Murali now share the top spot in this illustrious list, which highlights the dominance of these bowlers in the longest format of the game.
Ashwin’s Consistency and Versatility
Ashwin has built his legacy not just on wickets, but through consistent match-winning performances with both ball and bat. His ability to deliver under pressure in varied conditions has made him a linchpin for India, particularly in home conditions, where his spin becomes almost unplayable. Whether it’s spinning a web around visiting teams in India or showcasing his tactical acumen on overseas tours, Ashwin’s all-round ability has cemented his place among the game’s greats.
In his 94 Test matches, Ashwin has taken over 500 wickets and has been instrumental in leading India to multiple series victories. His contributions often come with crucial lower-order runs, making him a complete package in the Test arena. It’s his game-changing abilities that have earned him these 11 Player of the Series awards—tying him with Muralitharan, who dominated the art of spin bowling for Sri Lanka over two decades.
Muralitharan’s Legacy
Muttiah Muralitharan, regarded as one of the greatest off-spinners of all time, also earned 11 Player of the Seriesawards during his illustrious career. Playing 133 Tests, Murali’s impact on the game was unmatched. His 800 Test wickets remain a world record, and his dominance on subcontinental pitches, in particular, was legendary. Like Ashwin, Murali’s Player of the Series awards were a reflection of his ability to influence the outcome of matches single-handedly, making him an irreplaceable figure for Sri Lanka.
Other Cricketers with the Most Player of the Series Awards
While Ashwin and Murali top the list, several other cricketers have also frequently won Player of the Series awards, showcasing their match-winning abilities. Here’s a look at some notable names:
- Jacques Kallis (South Africa) – 9 POS awards: Kallis was a batting stalwart and a handy bowler, making him one of the best all-rounders in the history of the game. His ability to win matches with both bat and ball earned him this impressive tally.
- Imran Khan (Pakistan) – 8 POS awards: Pakistan’s iconic leader and fast-bowling all-rounder, Imran Khan, was renowned for his ability to turn games around. His all-round brilliance saw him frequently dominate series performances.
- Wasim Akram (Pakistan) – 7 POS awards: Akram’s ability to swing the ball and his dangerous reverse swing made him a match-winner, particularly in Test cricket, where he delivered stellar performances consistently.
- Shane Warne (Australia) – 7 POS awards: As one of the best leg-spinners ever, Warne’s knack for changing the complexion of games saw him earn multiple Player of the Series honors during his illustrious career.
The Importance of Player of the Series Awards
In Test cricket, the Player of the Series award is a significant recognition, usually awarded to the player who has made the most impact throughout the series. This accolade is a testament to a player’s consistency and ability to influence the game across multiple matches. Winning this award repeatedly, as Ashwin and Murali have, speaks volumes about their ability to carry a team to victory almost single-handedly.
For bowlers, in particular, earning this recognition is even more challenging in a game often dominated by batsmen. Ashwin’s ability to dominate matches, just like Murali did, showcases his versatility and importance to the team, not just in taking wickets but in contributing in all aspects of the game.
What’s Next for Ashwin?
At 37, Ashwin continues to be a key figure in Indian Test cricket, and his drive to maintain his place among the game’s legends shows no sign of slowing down. With India having several upcoming Test series, it’s likely that Ashwin could soon surpass Muralitharan’s record and cement his place at the top of this prestigious list.
As the game evolves, Ashwin’s achievements serve as a reminder of the value of adaptability and skill in Test cricket. His ability to read the game and deliver when it matters most is a testament to his cricketing genius, and he remains one of the sport’s most revered figures.