Player of the Tournament Winners in Asia Cup

The Asia Cup, a premier cricketing event in the Asian subcontinent, has witnessed thrilling contests and breathtaking performances over the years. One of the most coveted accolades in this tournament is the “Player of the Tournament” award. This honor is bestowed upon the player who consistently shines throughout the tournament, leaving an indelible mark on the competition. Let’s take a trip down memory lane and analyze the Player of the Tournament winners in Asia Cup history.

2022 – Wanindu Hasaranga

In 2022, Sri Lanka clinched the Asia Cup title under the leadership of Dasun Shanaka. While Bhanuka Rajapaksa stole the limelight as the Man of the Match in the final, it was Wanindu Hasaranga who emerged as the Player of the Tournament. His exceptional all-round abilities with both bat and ball made him a standout performer, etching his name into the tournament’s history.

2018 – Shikhar Dhawan

 Shikhar Dhawan. (Photo Source: Twitter)

India, led by Rohit Sharma, won the 2018 Asia Cup. Shikhar Dhawan‘s exceptional form saw him earn the Man of the Match award in the final against Bangladesh. However, it was another Indian, Shikhar Dhawan, who was named the Player of the Tournament for his consistency with the bat.

2016 – Sabbir Rahman

 Sabbir Rahman. (Photo Source: Twitter)

Under the captaincy of MS Dhoni, India secured the Asia Cup in 2016. Shikhar Dhawan’s explosive batting earned him the Man of the Match award in the final against Bangladesh. However, the Player of the Tournament title went to Bangladesh’s Sabbir Rahman, who showcased his talent and contributed significantly to his team’s journey.

2014 – Lahiru Thirimanne

 Lahiru Thirimanne. (Photo Source: Twitter)

Sri Lanka, led by Angelo Mathews, triumphed in 2014. Lasith Malinga was the Man of the Match in the final, but it was Lahiru Thirimanne who walked away with the Player of the Tournament award, demonstrating his all-round skills and match-winning contributions.

2012 – Shakib Al Hasan

Shakib Al Hasan. (Photo Source: ICC)

In 2012, Pakistan emerged victorious under Misbah-ul-Haq’s captaincy. Shahid Afridi was named the Man of the Match in the final, but the Player of the Tournament was Bangladesh’s Shakib Al Hasan, who showcased his prowess with both bat and ball.

2010 – Shahid Afridi

 Shahid Afridi. (Photo Source: AFP)

India, captained by MS Dhoni, clinched the title in 2010. Dinesh Karthik was the Man of the Match in the final. However, Shahid Afridi’s remarkable all-round performances for Pakistan earned him the Player of the Tournament accolade.

2008 – Ajantha Mendis

[ Ajantha Mendis. (Photo Source: Twitter)

Sri Lanka, under Mahela Jayawardene’s leadership, secured the Asia Cup in 2008. Ajantha Mendis was not only the Man of the Match in the final but also the Player of the Tournament, thanks to his mesmerizing spin bowling.

A Journey Through the ’90s and ’80s:

In the earlier editions of the Asia Cup, legendary cricketers like Mohammad Azharuddin, Navjot Sidhu, and Arjuna Ranatunga left an indelible mark on the tournament, earning multiple Player of the Tournament awards during the ’90s and ’80s.

As we reminisce about these Player of the Tournament winners in the Asia Cup, we are reminded of the incredible talent and passion for cricket that has graced this tournament over the years. The list includes not only renowned names but also some lesser-known players who had their moment in the spotlight.