Zimbabwe cricket star Sikandar Raza has created history by surpassing two modern-day Indian greats — Virat Kohli and Suryakumar Yadav — to hold the record for the most Player of the Match (POTM) awards in T20 internationals.
With this remarkable milestone, Raza has once again proved why he is considered one of the most impactful all-rounders in world cricket.
Raza Surpasses Kohli & SKY in Style
In the 2nd T20I against Sri Lanka in Harare, Raza delivered yet another match-winning performance, earning his 17th POTM award in T20Is. With this, he overtook Virat Kohli and Suryakumar Yadav, both of whom had 16 awards each in the format.
This record is special because T20 cricket is often dominated by big batting nations like India, Australia, and England. Yet, a Zimbabwean cricketer now sits at the very top of the list — a testament to Raza’s consistency and brilliance.
Raza Surpasses Kohli & SKY in Style
In the 2nd T20I against Sri Lanka in Harare, Raza delivered yet another match-winning performance, earning his 17th POTM award in T20Is. With this, he overtook Virat Kohli and Suryakumar Yadav, both of whom had 16 awards each in the format.
This record is special because T20 cricket is often dominated by big batting nations like India, Australia, and England. Yet, a Zimbabwean cricketer now sits at the very top of the list — a testament to Raza’s consistency and brilliance.
Most Player of the Match Awards in T20 Internationals
| Player | Country | Matches Played | Runs | Wickets | POTM Awards |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sikandar Raza | Zimbabwe | 93 | 2,165 | 67 | 17 (World Record) |
| Virat Kohli | India | 117 | 4,037 | — | 16 |
| Suryakumar Yadav | India | 63 | 2,145 | — | 16 |
Impact on Zimbabwe Cricket
This achievement is bigger than just individual glory. Zimbabwe cricket has been fighting for global recognition, and Raza’s success is proof that world-class talent can come from anywhere. His rise has inspired young Zimbabwean cricketers to dream big and play fearless cricket.
Fans back home in Harare celebrated the milestone with joy, hailing Raza as not just a player but a symbol of hope for Zimbabwe’s cricketing future.
Sikandar Raza’s Key T20I Stats (As of September 2025)
| Stat Category | Record/Performance |
|---|---|
| Matches Played | 93 |
| Runs Scored | 2,165 |
| Batting Average | 28.5 |
| Strike Rate | 139.2 |
| Highest Score | 133* vs Gambia (2024) |
| T20I Hundreds | 1 |
| T20I Fifties | 13 |
| Wickets Taken | 67 |
| Best Bowling Figures | 4/18 |
| Player of the Match Awards | 17 (World Record) |
Conclusion
Sikandar Raza’s record-breaking 17th POTM award in T20 internationals has etched his name in cricketing history. Surpassing legends like Virat Kohli and Suryakumar Yadav is no small feat, and Raza has done it while carrying the expectations of a team that doesn’t often feature in headlines.
As he continues his journey, one thing is certain — Sikandar Raza has redefined what it means to be a true match-winner in world cricket.
