Whenever the question is asked about who the best finisher in Cricket is, many names and their heroics flash into our minds. Cricket is a game of skill, strategy, and precision, and while every aspect of the sport is crucial, finishing the game strongly stands as the difference between victory and defeat. There have been many best finishers in the world cricket, and this blog will act as a token of respect and nostalgia for our great memories.
Over the years, many players have earned the title of the “World’s best finisher” in cricket, and the debate about who holds that distinction continues to be a topic of discussion among fans and experts. So, without wasting any time, let’s get into the business.
Best Finishers in the World in Cricket
MS Dhoni – Captain Cool
It’s impossible to discuss cricket finishers without mentioning the name MS Dhoni. The former Indian captain is widely regarded as one of the best finishers in cricket and its history. Known for his calm and composed nature under pressure, Dhoni’s finishing abilities have been the stuff of legends. It was under his captaincy when India won the first inaugural T20 World Cup in 2007.
Stats:
- Dhoni scored 10773 runs in ODIs at an average of 50.57 with a strike rate of 87.56.
- He played 350 ODIs and remained unbeaten 84 times, showing his ability to stay till the end.
- Dhoni’s T20I stats include 1617 runs at an average of 37.60 with a strike rate of 126.13.
Match-Winning Performances:
Dhoni’s most iconic performance as a finisher came in the 2011 ICC Cricket World Cup final against Sri Lanka. Chasing a target of 275, Dhoni scored an unbeaten 91 off 79 balls and ensured India’s victory, making him an instant hero.
His incredible finishing skills were also evident in the 2016 T20 World Cup, where he led India to victory with a remarkable last-over six against Bangladesh, proving that he could keep his cool even in the most high-pressure situations.
Michael Bevan – The Original Finisher
Before Dhoni rose to prominence, Michael Bevan was widely considered the original World’s best finisher in limited-overs cricket. The Australian left-hander was known for his ability to chase down any target with his astute understanding of the game.
Stats:
- Bevan played 232 ODIs and scored 6912 runs at an average of 53.58.
- He remained unbeaten 67 times in ODIs, a testament to his finishing skills.
Match-Winning Performances:
Bevan’s ability to close out games was most famously displayed during the 1996 World Cup quarter-final against the West Indies. He played a match-winning inning of 78* off 88 balls, steering Australia to a thrilling victory and getting him the nickname of the “best finisher of all time”.
AB de Villiers – Mr. 360
AB de Villiers, the South African cricketer, is renowned for his ability to play innovative and unconventional shots, earning him the nickname “Mr. 360.” While he’s known for his explosive batting in all formats, he has proven his finishing abilities in limited-overs cricket.
Stats:
De Villiers scored 9577 runs in ODIs at an average of 53.50 with a strike rate of 101.09.
He played 228 ODIs and remained unbeaten 39 times, showcasing his ability to see his team through challenging situations.
Match-Winning Performances:
One of De Villiers’ memorable finishing acts came in 2015 when he scored a brilliant 162* off 66 balls against the West Indies, helping South Africa chase down a massive target of 408 with ease. This knock showcased his incredible hitting prowess and ability to finish games single-handedly.
Jos Buttler – The English Powerhouse
Jos Buttler, the English wicketkeeper-batsman, is known for his explosive style of play and is often hailed as one of the best finishers in contemporary cricket. His ability to accelerate the scoring rate in the final overs and under pressure has made him a valuable asset for England.
Stats:
- Buttler has scored 3892 runs in ODIs at an average of 41.07 with a strike rate of 119.55.
- He has remained unbeaten 13 times in ODIs.
Match-Winning Performances:
One of Buttler’s standout performances came during the 2019 World Cup, where he played a crucial role in England’s triumph. His unbeaten 59* off 60 balls in the final against New Zealand helped England tie the match, ultimately leading to their maiden World Cup victory.
Kieron Pollard – The Caribbean Powerhouse
Kieron Pollard, the West Indian all-rounder, is another dynamic finisher in world cricket. Known for his colossal hitting abilities and calm demeanor in crunch situations, Pollard has earned a reputation as a game-changer for his team.
Stats:
- Pollard has scored 2778 runs in ODIs at a strike rate of 93.90.
- He has remained unbeaten 13 times in ODIs, highlighting his value as a finisher.
Match-Winning Performances:
Pollard’s finishing abilities were fully displayed during the 2019 T20I series against India. He played a blistering knock of 58* off 45 balls in the second T20I, leading West Indies to victory and proving that he could anchor the innings when required.
Conclusion
The debate over the best finisher in world cricket remains subjective, as it depends on various factors such as playing conditions, opposition, and match situations. Players like MS Dhoni, Michael Bevan, AB de Villiers, Jos Buttler, and Kieron Pollard have all left an indelible mark with their ability to close out games under pressure.
MS Dhoni, in particular, stands out as one of the greatest finishers in the sport’s history. His impressive stats and match-winning performances in high-pressure situations have solidified his reputation as “Captain Cool.” His calm demeanor, astute understanding of the game, and exceptional finishing skills have set him apart as a legend of limited-overs cricket.
In the end, the best finisher is a matter of personal preference, but one thing is certain: these players have brought joy to cricket fans worldwide with their remarkable performances and the ability to turn the tide of a game when it matters the most.
