Notable Cricket Winners of the BBC Sports Personality of the Year Award

The BBC Sports Personality of the Year Award has a rich history, recognizing outstanding athletes across various sports. Over the years, several cricketers have made a significant impact on the global cricket scene and were honored with this prestigious award. This article highlights the greats who have won the award, specifically focusing on cricket.

Recognized Cricketers

Several cricketers have been honored with the BBC Sports Personality of the Year Award, cementing their place in sports history. Here are some of the notable winners:

Sir Ian Botham

Sir Ian Botham, often regarded as one of cricket's greatest all-rounders, won the award in 1981. This came in recognition of his incredible performance during the Ashes series against Australia. His all-round skills and leadership on the field made him a standout player.

Kapil Dev

Kapil Dev won the award in 1983 for leading the Indian team to victory in the Cricket World Cup. His leadership and excellent performances made him a deserving winner, showcasing the power and glory of Indian cricket.

Michael Vaughan

In 2005, Michael Vaughan captained England to an Ashes series victory against Australia, leading the team to a remarkable comeback. This victory made him a memorable figure in English cricket, securing the BBC Sports Personality of the Year Award for him.

Andrew Flintoff

Andrew Flintoff was another prominent winner in 2005. He was named England's Player of the Series during the 2005 Ashes series, where he performed exceptionally well despite being part of a challenging team. His resilience and contributions were recognized through this prestigious award.

Ben Stokes

Ben Stokes cemented his legacy in 2019 by winning the award for his outstanding performances in that year. Most notably, he scored 135 runs in a test match at Headingley, which Wisden later named as the men's Test innings of the decade. His player of the match performance in the World Cup final was also a highlight of that memorable year.

Second and Third Placers

Several cricketers have placed in the top three of the BBC Sports Personality of the Year voting over the years. Here are the top five who managed to clinch the award:

Jim Laker - 1956

Jim Laker, an off-spinner for England, won the award in 1956. Not only did he win the title, but he also set a record by taking 46 wickets in the Ashes series that year. His performances, including his famous 19-wicket haul, made him a legendary figure.

David Steele - 1975

David Steele, a cricketer who competed in his first Test at age 33, won the award in 1975. Despite only playing three Tests that year, his performances against Dennis Lillee and Jeff Thompson resonated with the public, earning him the accolade.

Ian Botham - 1981

Ian Botham’s heroic performances during the 1981 Ashes series earned him the title. His role in England’s comeback victory, including his 149 runs in the second innings at Headingley, made him a deserving and memorable winner.

Andrew Flintoff - 2005

Andrew Flintoff, once again, won the award in 2005 for his outstanding performances in the 2005 Ashes series. His contributions to the team, marked by his ability to score runs and bowl effectively, made him a standout player.

Ben Stokes - 2019

In 2019, Ben Stokes won the award for his electrifying performances in both the World Cup and the Ashes series. His 135 runs at Headingley and his crucial performances in the World Cup finals secured his place in the history of cricket.

Conclusion

The BBC Sports Personality of the Year Award recognizes cricket stars who have left an indelible mark on our sport. These winners have not only achieved incredible success on the international stage but have also become iconic figures in cricket history. Their performances have inspired generations of cricketers and fans alike.