Who is the Best Finisher in the World of Cricket History? (Top 10)

In the dynamic world of cricket, the part of selecting the best finisher in the world is essential in determining the outcome of matches. A finisher is responsible for closing out games with composure, power-hitting, and sharpness, often in the case of stressful or difficult situations. Over the years, the game of cricket has produced some legendary finishers who took their respective teams to their success with remarkable consistency.

Many cricket fans and experts often debate who is the world no 1 finisher in cricket history. The answer lies in analyzing players’ performances, match-winning knocks, and their ability to remain calm in tense circumstances. From India’s MS Dhoni, who drastically changed the skill of finishing, to South Africa’s AB de Villiers as well as Australia’s Michael Bevan, these players have earned their place among world no 1 best finisher in cricket.

Who is the World No.1 Best Finisher in Cricket History?

Whenever the discussion of the best finishers in the world of cricket comes up, the name of former captain of the Indian cricket team, MS Dhoni, is the first to be mentioned. He not only showcased his finishing skills in normal matches but also steered India to victory in matches like World Cup finals. This is why he is considered one of the best finishers in the world of cricket. So let’s learn about the top 10 best finishers in world cricket one by one.

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Top 10 Finishers in the World of All Time

Determining world no 1 finisher in cricket history often leads to extensive debates among cricket enthusiasts. However, based on statistics, match-winning performances, and the ability to handle pressure, the following players can be considered as the finest finishers in cricket:

Among these exceptional players, MS Dhoni can be clearly considered as world no 1 finisher in cricket history. The way he has a calm demeanor, sharpness, and consistent performances even under pressure have earned him this esteemed position.

#1 MS Dhoni (India)

The first name among the greatest finishers in cricket history is that of India’s MS Dhoni, who is known for playing with calm demeanor even in the final moments of the match without any pressure. Dhoni’s innings of 91 runs off 79 balls in the World Cup 2011 final is considered one of the best finishing innings in cricket history.

Dhoni is known for finishing matches with sixes, and he sealed India’s victory in the World Cup 2011 final with a six. You can Guess Dhoni’s finishing touch by the fact that he remained not out the most number of times, 142, in his career.

MS Dhoni is widely regarded as an extraordinary finisher in cricket. The ability of his to chase down targets even under pressure and his cool-headed approach have made him an icon of the game.

Career Highlights:

• ODI Matches: 350
• Runs Scored: 10,773
• Highest Score: 183*
• Batting Average: 50.57
• Strike Rate: 87.56

Performance at Batting Positions:

#2 Michael Bevan (Australia)

The name of former Australian cricket team stalwart batsman Michael Bevan is also counted among the best finishers in cricket history, known for his cleverly placed shots and batting prowess. He has often pulled Australia out of difficult situations with his splendid batting. You can gauge his finishing touch by the fact that he has scored a total of 3006 runs at an average of 56.71 in 87 matches while batting at number 6 in One Day Internationals.

Known as the original finisher, Bevan had an astonishing ability to take his team towards victory in tough circumstances with his wonderful batting skills.

Career Highlights:

• ODI Matches: 232
• Runs Scored: 6,912
• Highest Score: 108*
• Batting Average: 53.58
• Strike Rate: 74.16

Performance at Batting Positions:

#3 Lance Klusener (South Africa)

The third name on this list is that of the explosive South African batsman Lance Klusener, who was capable of single-handedly changing the course of the match with his dangerous batting at any moment. Klusener had absolutely no mercy towards bowlers, and you can gauge this from the fact that he has scored a total of 1056 runs at an average of 58.66 in 36 matches while batting at number 8 in One Day Internationals.

Lance Klusener was a powerhouse finisher known for his brutal hitting, particularly in the time period of 1990s end plus early 2000s. His heroics in World Cup 1999 cemented his legacy as a good finisher.

Career Highlights:

• ODI Matches: 171
• Runs Scored: 3,576
• Highest Score: 103*
• Batting Average: 41.10
• Strike Rate: 89.91

Performance at Batting Positions:

#4 AB de Villiers (South Africa)

When it comes to cricket, it’s absolutely impossible not to mention AB de Villiers. Because if anyone has taken the responsibility of doing the impossible in cricket, it’s de Villiers, who is famous for his unorthodox shots. AB, who has the ability to change the course of the match with his batting at any moment, is placed at the top in the list of the best finishers in the world of cricket.

If there was one player who was the most dangerous in modern-day cricket, it’s de Villiers, who played a historic and unbeaten innings of 162 runs while batting at number 5 in One Day Internationals.

AB de Villiers was viewed by his fans as the most destructive batsman in modern cricket. His innovative stroke plays and ability to speed up at any point of the game made him quite a strong finisher.

Career Highlights:

• ODI Matches: 228
• Runs Scored: 9,577
• Highest Score: 176
• Batting Average: 53.50
• Strike Rate: 101.09

Performance at Batting Positions:

#5 Jos Buttler (England)*

Jos Buttler, counted among the finest batsmen of the England team, is also included among the best finishers in world cricket, capable of turning the tide of the match at any moment. Buttler is known for playing with his unorthodox style and taking the match to the last moments to secure victory. You can gauge this from the fact that he has scored more than 6000 runs while playing in the lower order, which is not easy even for top-order batsmen.

Jos Buttler can also be viewed as an intense finisher in modern-day cricket because of his ability to speed up, especially in final overs, and finish games with fierce batting makes him a vital asset for England.

Career Highlights:

• ODI Matches: 190
• Runs Scored: 5,500
• Highest Score: 162*
• Batting Average: 41.30
• Strike Rate: 119.83

Performance at Batting Positions:

#6 Andrew Symonds (Australia)

The name of former Australian cricket team stalwart batsman Andrew Symonds is also counted among the best finishers in cricket history, known for his brutal power and ferocious hitting. Symonds was truly a game-changer, who has achieved the feat of scoring 8 centuries while batting below number 5 in cricket.

Andrew Symonds was a hard-hitting finisher known for his aggressive style and ability to dominate bowling attacks in intense moments of any cricket game.

Career Highlights:

• ODI Matches: 198
• Runs Scored: 5,088
• Highest Score: 156
• Batting Average: 39.75
• Strike Rate: 92.44

Performance at Batting Positions:

#7 Michael Hussey (Australia)

Australian veteran Michael Hussey is counted among the best finishers in cricket history for his splendid batting. He has achieved the feat of scoring 13 centuries and 36 half-centuries while batting at number 5 and below.

Nicknamed “Mr. Cricket,” Michael Hussey was very well known for his patience and his potential to play the matches for Australia with precise shot selection and strategic batting.

Career Highlights:

• ODI Matches: 185
• Runs Scored: 5,442
• Highest Score: 109*
• Batting Average: 48.15
• Strike Rate: 87.16

Performance at Batting Positions:

8. Yuvraj Singh (India)

Yuvraj Singh was one of India’s greatest finishers, known for his six-hitting ability, especially in T20 World Cup of 2007 as well as of 2011.

Career Highlights:

• ODI Matches: 304
• Runs Scored: 8,701
• Highest Score: 139
• Batting Average: 36.55
• Strike Rate: 87.68

Performance at Batting Positions:

9. Javed Miandad (Pakistan)

Javed Miandad was one of the original finishers in cricket. His famous last-ball six in the 1986 Austral-Asia Cup final against India remains an iconic moment in cricket history.

Career Highlights:

• ODI Matches: 233
• Runs Scored: 7,381
• Highest Score: 119*
• Batting Average: 41.70
• Strike Rate: 68.02

Performance at Batting Positions:

10. Shahid Afridi (Pakistan)

Shahid Afridi, known as “Boom Boom,” was viewed as an entertaining finisher in cricket history. His way of hitting sixes whenever he wanted made him a very intense player, especially in the period of last overs.

Career Highlights:

• ODI Matches: 398
• Runs Scored: 8,064
• Highest Score: 124
• Batting Average: 23.57
• Strike Rate: 117.00

Performance at Batting Positions:

List of 10 Best finisher in India Cricket History

In India, Mahendra Singh Dhoni stands out as the top finisher, who has showcased his finishing skills in numerous matches. and always thrills the cricket fans with helicopter shots. Apart from him, there have been several other notable finishers in Indian cricket history, including players like Kapil Dev, Yuvraj Singh, Virat Kohli, and Rohit Sharma. Talking about the current star finishers in India, names like Rishabh Pant, Hardik Pandya and Rinku Singh are at the top.

1. MS Dhoni

Known as Captain Cool, MS Dhoni is regarded as the best finisher in the world, having guided India to countless victories with his calm approach and unmatched finishing ability.

2. Yuvraj Singh

The hero of India’s 2011 World Cup win, Yuvraj Singh was a fearless finisher who could take on any bowler and turn any match around with his aggressive batting.

3. Yusuf Pathan

Yusuf Pathan was a powerhouse of explosive batting, often finishing matches with quick cameos and breathtaking sixes.

4. Ravindra Jadeja

An all-rounder with a sharp cricketing mind, Ravindra Jadeja is known for finishing games with intelligent shot selection and a cool temperament.

5. Suresh Raina

A key middle-order batsman for India, Raina’s ability to accelerate in the final overs made him one of the most dangerous finishers.

6. Hardik Pandya

One of India’s best modern-day finishers, Hardik Pandya combines power-hitting with an aggressive mindset to dominate the death overs.

7. Kedar Jadhav

A player who thrived under pressure, Kedar Jadhav’s unorthodox stroke play made him an unexpected but effective finisher.

8. Dinesh Karthik

Known for his last-over heroics, Karthik’s finishing skills were evident in multiple nail-biting matches, including the Nidahas Trophy final.

9. Rishabh Pant

A fearless left-hander, Pant has already proven himself as a finisher with his aggressive batting and ability to take on any bowling attack.

10. Robin Uthappa

A strong hitter in his prime, Uthappa had the ability to finish matches with intense shots and a calm presence on the pitch.

Top 10 Best finisher in the IPL

In the history of the Indian Premier League, Dhoni is always at the top as the best finisher. Besides him, there have been more other finishers in IPL history, including players like AB de Villiers, Rohit Sharma, Kieron Pollard, and Andre Russell. Talking about the current star finishers in the IPL, names like Rinku Singh, Rishabh Pant, Hardik Pandya, Ravindra Jadeja, and Shivam Dube are at the top.

1. MS Dhoni (CSK, RPS)

Widely regarded as the greatest finisher in IPL history, MS Dhoni has consistently led Chennai Super Kings i.e., CSK to victories with his calmness under pressure and ability to finish games in style. His unbeaten 84* against RCB is an iconic IPL knock of his.

Dhoni’s Stats at Positions 6, 7, and 8

2. AB de Villiers (RCB, DD)

Mr. 360, AB de Villiers, has redefined finishing in the IPL with his innovative shots and breathtaking match-winning performances for RCB. His unbeaten 133* against MI remains one of the finest IPL innings.

AB de Villiers’ Stats at Positions 6, 7, and 8

3. Kieron Pollard (MI)

A game-changer for MI i.e., Mumbai Indians, Kieron Pollard has delivered numerous match-winning knocks by using his brute power and finishing prowess. His 109* against CSK is solid proof of his ability to take his team to the victory.

Pollard’s Stats at Positions 6, 7, and 8

4. Andre Russell (KKR)

KKR’s most dangerous finisher, Andre Russell, has single-handedly won matches with his explosive batting, having a tremendous amount of strike rate of over 160. His unbeaten 80* against RCB is a masterclass in finishing.

Russell’s Stats at Positions 6, 7, and 8

5. Yusuf Pathan (KKR, RR, SRH)

An early IPL match-winner, Yusuf Pathan was known for his power-hitting and ability to chase down impossible targets. His 100* off 37 balls for RR remains an IPL classic.

Yusuf’s Stats at Positions 6, 7, and 8

6. Hardik Pandya (MI, GT)

Hardik Pandya has emerged as a reliable fresher finisher in recent IPL seasons. His talent to free the boundaries with ease and his calmness in pressure situations make him a match-winner.

Hardik Pandya’s Stats at Positions 6, 7, and 8

7. Glenn Maxwell (KXIP, RCB)

Glenn Maxwell is known for his unorthodox shot-making and fearless batting. His excellent way of hitting big sixes even in under pressure makes him a dangerous IPL finisher.

Glenn Maxwell’s Stats at Positions 6, 7, and 8

8. Dinesh Karthik (KKR, RCB, DC)

Dinesh Karthik has played some of the most intense finishing knocks in IPL history, especially his 2022 season against the RCB, in which he excelled as a designated finisher.

Dinesh Karthik’s Stats at Positions 6, 7, and 8

9. Ravindra Jadeja (CSK, RR, GL)

Ravindra Jadeja has developed into a dependable finisher, often rescuing CSK with his late hitting in intense situations. His unbeaten 62* in the IPL final is evidence to his finishing skills.

Ravindra Jadeja’s Stats at Positions 6, 7, and 8

10. Rishabh Pant (DC)

Rishabh Pant is also considered a good finisher in modern IPL cricket. His ability to take on any bowler in the death overs makes him a feared opponent.

Rishabh Pant’s Stats at Positions 6, 7, and 8

List of 10 Best Finishers in Pakistan

Yes, we can tell – Shahid Afridi is the best finisher in the pakistan cricket history. sometimes best cricketer for pakistan team but not in the world. Pakistani cricket fans always telling afridi is the best finisher in the world but we can’t accept this title because in the world cricket we are listing players name on article starting.

1. Javed Miandad

Javed Miandad was one of the finest finishers of his era. His match-winning last-ball six against India in the 1986 Austral-Asia Cup final remains one of the most iconic moments in cricket history.

Javed Miandad’s Stats at Positions 6, 7, and 8

2. Shahid Afridi

Nicknamed “Boom Boom Afridi,” he was a destructive finisher, capable of changing the course of a game with his aggressive batting.

Shahid Afridi’s Stats at Positions 6, 7, and 8

3. Inzamam-ul-Haq

Inzamam was known for his calm presence in run chases and ability to handle pressure easily, making him one of Pakistan’s most reliable finishers.

Inzamam-ul-Haq’s Stats at Positions 6, 7, and 8

4. Abdul Razzaq

Razzaq was a hard-hitting all-rounder who played many match-winning knocks for Pakistan, including his unforgettable 109* against South Africa in 2010.

Abdul Razzaq’s Stats at Positions 6, 7, and 8

5. Misbah-ul-Haq

Misbah was known for his composed batting and precise finishing style, often guiding Pakistan to victory in risky run chases.

Misbah-ul-Haq’s Stats at Positions 6, 7, and 8

6. Mohammad Hafeez

Hafeez was a versatile batsman who contributed crucial finishing knocks, especially in T20 cricket.

Mohammad Hafeez’s Stats at Positions 6, 7, and 8

7. Shoaib Malik

Malik played many crucial innings for Pakistan in the middle order, showing his ability to finish games effectively.

Shoaib Malik’s Stats at Positions 6, 7, and 8

8. Umar Akmal

A naturally aggressive batsman, Umar Akmal played several explosive finishing knocks early in his career.

Umar Akmal’s Stats at Positions 6, 7, and 8

9. Kamran Akmal

Kamran Akmal was an aggressive lower-order batsman known for finishing innings with his attacking stroke play.

Kamran Akmal’s Stats at Positions 6, 7, and 8

10. Asif Ali

Asif Ali is a power hitter known for his explosive batting in T20 cricket.

Asif Ali’s Stats at Positions 6, 7, and 8

Best Finishers in the World Faq’s –

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