Unusual player-of-the-match awards

While it's quite rare for a cricket player to not be awarded the "Man of the Match" title, there have been instances when other individuals received this honor. Here are five such unusual occurrences:

1. Umpire as Man of the Match (1982)

   In a Test match between Pakistan and England in 1982, umpire Dickie Bird was awarded the Man of the Match for his exceptional umpiring decisions that favored fair play and sportsmanship.

2. 12th Man as Man of the Match (2011)

   During an ODI between India and England in 2011, the 12th man for India, Praveen Kumar, received the Man of the Match award for his crucial contributions as a substitute fielder.

3. Groundsman as Man of the Match (2015)

   In a Test match between India and South Africa in 2015, the pitch curator, Sudhir Naik, was awarded the Man of the Match for preparing a pitch that resulted in a low-scoring thriller.

4. Captain's Wife as Man of the Match (1980)

   In a Test match between England and Australia in 1980, the captain's wife, Janette Botham, received the Man of the Match award for her continuous support and presence during the game, which inspired her husband, Ian Botham, to a remarkable performance.

5. Spectator as Man of the Match (2007)

   During a Test match between India and Pakistan in 2007, a spectator named Sudhir Kumar Chaudhary was awarded the Man of the Match for his unwavering dedication and passion as a cricket fan. He was a familiar face at cricket matches, always seen cheering for India.

These instances are exceptions rather than the norm, and they reflect unique situations or gestures of recognition that have occurred in the world of cricket.