In the thrilling world of cricket, finishers hold a special place. These players have the nerve to steer their team to victory, often in high-pressure situations.
In limited-overs cricket, a great finisher can be the difference between a win and a loss, making them indispensable. This article highlights the top 5 finishers in world cricket history, showcasing their incredible abilities and memorable performances.
List Of Top 5 World Best Finishers In Cricket (2024)
This table includes the cricketers’ names, Birth Dates, Age, Country, and Highest Score as of 2024.
| Cricketer | Birth Date | Age | Country | Test Highest Score | ODI Highest Score | T20 Highest Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| MS Dhoni | 07/07/1981 | 43 | India | 224 | 183* | 56 |
| Michael Bevan | 08/05/1970 | 54 | Australia | 87* | 108* | N/A |
| AB de Villiers | 17/02/1984 | 40 | South Africa | 278* | 176 | 79* |
| Michael Hussey | 27/05/1975 | 49 | Australia | 195 | 109* | 60* |
| Jos Buttler | 08/09/1990 | 33 | England | 152 | 162* | 101* |
In cricket, finishers are the players who lead their teams to victory in the final, high-pressure moments of a match. This role is crucial in limited-overs cricket, where the ability to chase down targets or set formidable scores can determine the outcome.
Among the best finishers in world cricket history are MS Dhoni, Michael Bevan, AB de Villiers, Michael Hussey, and Jos Buttler. Their remarkable skills and memorable performances have made them legends of the game.
1. MS Dhoni
| Birth Date | 07/07/1981 |
| Age | 43 |
| Country | India |
| Test Highest Score | 224 |
| ODI Highest Score | 183* |
| T20 Highest Score | 56 |
MS Dhoni is celebrated as one of cricket’s greatest finishers and captains. Known for his calm demeanor and tactical acumen, Dhoni led India to victories in the 2007 T20 World Cup, the 2011 ICC World Cup, and the 2013 Champions Trophy. His ability to remain composed under pressure and deliver match-winning performances is legendary.
Background and Career Highlights
- Achievements: Led India to victory in the 2007 T20 World Cup, 2011 ICC World Cup, and 2013 Champions Trophy.
- Key Innings:
- 183* against Sri Lanka in 2005.
- 91* in the 2011 ICC World Cup final.
- Statistical Analysis: Over 10,000 ODI runs with a significant number of runs scored in the final overs.
2. Michael Bevan
| Birth Date | 08/05/1970 |
| Age | 54 |
| Country | Australia |
| Test Highest Score | 87* |
| ODI Highest Score | 108* |
| T20 Highest Score | N/A |
Michael Bevan is renowned for his unmatched finishing skills in ODI cricket. Playing for Australia, he consistently guided his team to victory in tight situations with his exceptional batting prowess and strategic approach. Bevan’s ability to handle high-pressure chases made him a key player in Australia’s success during the 1990s and early 2000s.
Background and Career Highlights
- Achievements: Part of the Australian team that won the 1999 and 2003 World Cups.
- Key Innings:
- 78* against West Indies in 1996.
- 74* against New Zealand in 2002.
- Statistical Analysis: Averaged over 53 in ODIs, with many not-out innings.
3. AB de Villiers
| Birth Date | 17/02/1984 |
| Age | 40 |
| Country | South Africa |
| Test Highest Score | 278* |
| ODI Highest Score | 176 |
| T20 Highest Score | 79* |
AB de Villiers, often called “Mr. 360,” is famous for his innovative and explosive batting. Representing South Africa, he broke multiple records with his versatile shot-making ability. De Villiers’ capacity to score rapidly and his knack for turning games around in pressure situations solidified his reputation as a formidable finisher in modern cricket.
Background and Career Highlights
- Achievements: Holds records for the fastest 50, 100, and 150 in ODIs.
- Key Innings:
- 149 off 44 balls against West Indies in 2015.
- 101* against England in 2014.
- Statistical Analysis: Over 9,000 ODI runs with a high strike rate.
4. Michael Hussey
| Birth Date | 27/05/1975 |
| Age | 49 |
| Country | Australia |
| Test Highest Score | 195 |
| ODI Highest Score | 109* |
| T20 Highest Score | 60* |
Michael Hussey, known as “Mr. Cricket,” was an indispensable part of the Australian cricket team. His reliability and strategic batting in the middle order made him a top finisher. Hussey’s calm approach and ability to perform in crucial matches earned him immense respect and numerous match-winning accolades throughout his career.
Background and Career Highlights
- Achievements: Played a key role in Australia’s dominance in the late 2000s.
- Key Innings:
- 60* against Pakistan in 2010 T20 World Cup.
- 47* against Sri Lanka in 2007.
- Statistical Analysis: Over 6,000 ODI runs with many not-out innings.
5. Jos Buttler
| Birth Date | 08/09/1990 |
| Age | 33 |
| Country | England |
| Test Highest Score | 152 |
| ODI Highest Score | 162* |
| T20 Highest Score | 101* |
Jos Buttler is an explosive wicketkeeper-batsman for England, known for his aggressive batting and finishing skills. He played a pivotal role in England’s 2019 World Cup triumph. Buttler’s innovative stroke play and ability to score quickly in the death overs have made him one of the most feared finishers in modern limited-overs cricket.
Background and Career Highlights
- Achievements: Integral part of England’s 2019 World Cup-winning team.
- Key Innings:
- 110* against Pakistan in 2015.
- 77* in the 2019 World Cup final.
- Statistical Analysis: Over 4,000 ODI runs with a high strike rate.
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Conclusion – MS Dhoni Is The World’s Best Finisher In Cricket!
Finishers are the unsung heroes of cricket, turning the tide in favor of their teams in crucial moments.
The players highlighted here have mastered the art of finishing and left an indelible mark on the game. As cricket evolves, the finisher’s role will remain vital, and new players will rise to take on this mantle.
Who is your favourite finisher in cricket? Let us know in the comments below!
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