Cricket, a beloved sport for many, is often enjoyed for its thrilling moments, especially those nail-biting finishes that keep fans on the edge of their seats. The excitement of a game coming down to the last over or the final ball is something every cricket lover wants.
Not every batsman can handle the pressure of hitting crucial runs in the final moments of a match, making these finishers the heroes of the game. In this article, we’ll explore the top 10 best finishers in world cricket of all time.
1. Mahendra Singh Dhoni (India)
Widely regarded as one of the best finishers, captains, and wicketkeepers in ODI cricket, Mahendra Singh Dhoni’s calm and calculated approach explained the role of a finisher in the late 2000s. Dhoni is known for successful run chases, with 47 unbeaten victories and 2,876 runs, which set him apart. His iconic 91 not out in the 2011 World Cup final, hitting a historic six, remains etched in cricket history as one of the finest finishing knocks.
2. Shahid Afridi (Pakistan)
Known for his aggressive and dominating approach, Shahid Afridi is celebrated as one of the best finishers in cricket history. His ability to launch massive sixes, especially under pressure, made him a match-winner for Pakistan.
Shahid Afridi holds several records, like hitting the longest six in cricket history, scoring the fastest century, and hitting the most sixes in ODI cricket, which makes him a true legend. Afridi’s unbeaten 54 in the 2009 T20 World Cup final and his crucial innings in the 2014 Asia Cup exemplify his impact as a game-changing finisher.
3. AB de Villiers (South Africa)
In the modern era of cricket, AB de Villiers stands out as one of the greatest batsmen and finishers. His ability to strike the ball 360 degrees and inventive shot play redefined batting. De Villiers’ match-winning century in the first Test against Australia and his records for the fastest 50, 100, and 150 in ODIs highlight his prowess as a finisher in the modern-day game.
4. Micheal Bevan (Australia)
Michael Bevan was good at finishing cricket matches. He played in a way that helped Australia win, especially in tough situations. He was known for planning everything carefully and having a strategy to win until the last ball of the game. In 232 matches, he scored 6912 runs at an average of 53.58, which is very good. This makes him one of the best players at finishing games in the history of cricket.
5. Lance Klusener (South Africa)
Known as the “one-day wrecker,” Lance Klusener’s destructive hard-hitting ability made him one of the most feared finishers in ODI cricket. His exceptional performance in the 1999 World Cup, where he won four Man of the Match awards, showcased his prowess with both bat and ball. Klusener’s ability to single-handedly turn the tide in pressure situations solidified his reputation as a legendary finisher.
6. Chris Cairns (New Zealand)
New Zealand’s cricketing history boasts Chris Cairns as one of the best all-rounders and finishers. Cairns’ hard-hitting middle-order batting style, coupled with his effective bowling, made him a formidable force. His match-winning century against South Africa in the 2001-02 VB series and leadership in the 2000 ICC Champions Trophy final highlighted his impact as a finisher.
7. Glenn Maxwell (Australia)
Glenn Maxwell, often referred to as the “Big Show,” is recognized as one of the best finishers in modern-day cricket. Maxwell’s explosive batting style and innovative shot-making have made him a standout player, particularly in the limited-overs formats.
His performance in the 2023 World Cup was unforgettable, where he scored the fastest World Cup 100 against the Netherlands. He played one of the greatest knocks ever against Afghanistan, scoring 201* and helping his team reach the semi-finals
8. Abdul Razzaq (Pakistan)
Pakistan’s most reliable all-rounder, Abdul Razzaq, earned a reputation as one of the best finishers in ODI cricket. With the ability to swing the new ball and composure to bat at any position, Razzaq’s match-winning century against South Africa in 2010 and his overall contributions as a finisher solidified his place among cricket’s elite.
9. Viv Richards (West Indies)
Widely regarded as one of the greatest cricketers in history, Viv Richards was a batsman who could intimidate opponents even before facing a delivery. His match-winning performances in ODI finals, particularly his destructive innings in the B & H World Series Cup 1988–89 final, showcased his ability to change the game’s outcome. Richards’ phenomenal strike rate and 11 ODI centuries underline his legacy as one of the best ODI batsmen.
10. Michael Hussey (Australia)
Known as “Mr. Cricket,” Michael Hussey quickly established himself as one of Australia’s prolific left-handed batsmen and a dependable finisher. His ability to win matches in the late 2000s, often single-handedly, showcased his prowess in pressure situations. Whether it was his unbeaten 60 off 24 balls in the 2010 World T20 semifinal or his consistent performances at position seven, Hussey’s finishing capabilities were a vital asset for Australia.
Conclusion
In the high-stakes world of limited-overs cricket, the role of finishers is crucial, and these ten players have left an indelible mark on the game with their ability to deliver under pressure. Whether it’s Bevan’s planning, Dhoni’s calm captaincy, or Afridi & de Villiers’ destructive hitting, each finisher has brought a unique style to the art of finishing games. As cricket continues to evolve, the legacy of these players serves as a testament to their impact on the sport’s history
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQS)
Who is the No. 1 Finisher in Cricket History?
MS Dhoni is widely regarded as the best finisher in cricket. Players like Michael Bevan, Shahid Afridi, and AB de Villiers have also left an indelible mark as exceptional finishers, each with their unique style and contributions.
Who is the Best Finisher from India?
Widely regarded as one of the best finishers in cricket, Mahendra Singh Dhoni has earned the title of the best finisher from India. His calm demeanor, strategic acumen, and ability to finish games under pressure have made him a legendary figure in the cricketing world.
Who is the Best Finisher in T20?
In the realm of T20 cricket, AB de Villiers is often hailed as one of the best finishers. His innovative shot-making, 360-degree batting, and ability to accelerate the run rate quickly make him a standout performer in the shortest format of the game.
Who is the Best Finisher in ODI Cricket?
When it comes to ODI cricket, Michael Bevan is often regarded as one of the best finishers in history. His deliberate and methodical approach, coupled with numerous match-winning innings, solidifies his status as an iconic finisher in the 50-over format