England’s Will Jacks has scripted a remarkable tale in the T20 World Cup 2026, matching Australian legend Shane Watson’s record for the most Player of the Match awards in a single edition. With four such honors already in the bag from seven matches, Jacks has propelled his team into the semifinals as the first qualifier, turning near-defeat into triumphant glory.
The journey began shakily for England. A hard-fought win over Nepal kicked off their campaign, but a loss to West Indies left Super 8 qualification hanging by a thread. Yet, under Jacks’ explosive all-round brilliance, they not only advanced but dominated. Batting lower down the order despite his top-order prowess, Jacks unleashed stormy innings, while his handy spin bowling snared crucial wickets at pivotal moments.
In seven innings, Jacks amassed 191 runs at an average of 63.66 and a blistering strike rate of 176.85, with an unbeaten 53 as his best. He ranks 12th among top run-scorers, trailing only captain Harry Brook’s 228 runs, including a century. Adding seven wickets to his tally, Jacks’ dual impact has been game-changing.
Four Player of the Match awards tie him with Watson’s 2012 feat. Zimbabwe’s Sikandar Raza holds third place with three from 2022. As England eyes the final, Jacks has at least one more shot in the semifinal to break the record and cement his legacy.
This surge underscores Jacks’ emergence as England’s biggest match-winner, blending power-hitting with tactical guile. Fans and analysts alike watch eagerly as he could redefine T20 World Cup history.