What is Fair Play Award in IPL: Winners List 2008–2023
The Fair Play Award in the Indian Premier League (IPL) honors the team that exemplifies the highest level of sportsmanship, commitment to the spirit of cricket, and adherence to fair play principles throughout the tournament.
To understand the IPL Fair Play Award, one must recognize both the rules of the game and the essence of cricket’s spirit. This award is given to the team that best follows the rules and promotes fairness on the field. In IPL 2023, the Delhi Capitals received the Fair Play Award for their exemplary behavior during the season.
Since its inception in 2008, the IPL has revolutionized cricket, raising the standards of play in all departments. Alongside individual and team accolades for outstanding performances, a strong focus has also been placed on maintaining the integrity of the game. Teams earn points by upholding respect for fellow players, opponents, and match officials, following specific fair play guidelines.
Chennai Super Kings (CSK) hold the record for the most Fair Play Awards, with six wins. Other winning teams include Rajasthan Royals, Sunrisers Hyderabad, Mumbai Indians, Punjab Kings, and Gujarat Lions.
How are Fair Play points awarded in IPL?

Teams can earn up to 10 points per match, with points being awarded by the on-field umpires and the third umpire. The breakdown of these points is as follows:
- 4 points are awarded for the team’s demonstration of the “spirit of the game,” as judged by the umpires.
- The remaining 6 points are distributed among three categories: respect for the opposition, adherence to cricket laws, and respect for the umpires. Each of these criteria can earn up to 2 points.
Teams that receive 2 points for a particular category are deemed “good,” while a score of 1 or 0 indicates an “average” or “poor” performance.
The Fair Play Award winner is determined by the average points per match, ensuring a fair comparison across all teams.
IPL Fair Play Award Winners List: 2008–2023
Cricket, often referred to as the “gentleman’s game,” has a legacy of sportsmanship that dates back over 120 years. Despite the evolution of the game, the importance of fair play and following the rules remains central. This ethos is reinforced in leagues such as the IPL, which promotes good conduct among players on the field.
The IPL emphasizes respect and positive behavior, even in high-pressure matches. Teams and players from various backgrounds compete fiercely while maintaining their composure and upholding the game’s integrity. The Fair Play Award is one such initiative that celebrates those who embody these values.
After each IPL match, the on-field and third umpires evaluate factors such as respect for the opposition and adherence to the laws of cricket, awarding points based on a team’s overall behavior. The team with the highest accumulated points at the end of the season wins the Fair Play Award.
Chennai Super Kings have won the award the most, with six titles, while Rajasthan Royals, Mumbai Indians, and Sunrisers Hyderabad have won it twice each. Interestingly, Kolkata Knight Riders and Royal Challengers Bangalore are yet to win the Fair Play Award, despite their overall success in the IPL. Newer teams such as Gujarat Titans and Lucknow Super Giants have also not secured the award.
Comments
Post a Comment