In the high-stakes world of cricket, few roles are as scrutinized or celebrated as that of the finisher. Finishers are the players who remain calm under immense pressure, turning the tides in their team’s favor at the most critical moments, often in the closing overs. Over the years, several players have earned accolades for their finishing abilities, showing immense mental strength, skill, and tactical brilliance. Among these, a few stand out as the world’s best who is the best finisher in the world, making their mark on the sport. Here, we take a closer look at some of the players who have claimed the title of “the best finisher in the world” and what makes them deserving of it.
1. MS Dhoni – India’s Captain Cool
When it comes to finishing a match, few names are as revered as that of Mahendra Singh Dhoni. Known as “Captain Cool,” Dhoni’s ability to keep his composure under pressure has been legendary. The former Indian captain has shown on numerous occasions that he has an incredible knack for pacing an innings, assessing risks, and knowing exactly when to accelerate.
One of Dhoni’s most memorable finishes came in the 2011 ICC Cricket World Cup final against Sri Lanka, where he hit a six to secure India’s victory, ending a 28-year-long wait for the title. Dhoni’s calm approach, combined with his ability to hit big shots when needed, has made him one of the best finishers in cricket history. His mastery in timing his innings and controlling the game even in challenging conditions cements his place as one of the top finishers.
2. Michael Bevan – The Original Finisher
Long before Dhoni entered the scene, Michael Bevan was the benchmark for finishers in world cricket. The Australian left-hander earned his reputation in the late 1990s and early 2000s, rescuing his team from seemingly impossible situations. Known for his ability to rotate the strike, Bevan was a master of calculated risks. His batting style focused on singles and doubles, building partnerships, and reducing the pressure as the innings unfolded.
Bevan’s finishing skills were crucial to Australia’s dominance in One-Day Internationals (ODIs) during his era. While he didn’t rely as much on big hitting, his precision and cricketing intelligence made him a reliable finisher. He played numerous innings that changed the outcomes of matches, and he was instrumental in Australia’s success in the 1999 World Cup. Bevan’s ability to read the game and work the field earned him the title of one of the finest finishers in history.
3. AB de Villiers – Mr. 360
AB de Villiers brought a new level of innovation and fearlessness to cricket. His unique style, combined with an array of shots covering all corners of the ground, has earned him the nickname “Mr. 360.” As a finisher, de Villiers could adapt to any situation, whether it was nudging singles or going all out for big shots. He had an innate ability to read bowlers and exploit their weaknesses, often finishing games with a flurry of boundaries.
De Villiers’ remarkable finishing abilities were on full display during his tenure in the Indian Premier League (IPL), where he played numerous memorable innings for Royal Challengers Bangalore. His ability to switch gears effortlessly made him one of the most dangerous finishers. The unpredictability and sheer talent of de Villiers make him a contender for the best finisher title.
4. Jos Buttler – England’s Power Hitter
Jos Buttler has emerged as one of the most explosive finishers in modern cricket. His powerful hitting, combined with a clear mindset in crunch situations, has proven invaluable for England. Buttler played a pivotal role in England’s historic 2019 World Cup win, demonstrating his finishing abilities during crucial matches. His innings often involve a mix of aggressive shots and quick runs, putting bowlers under pressure and giving England an edge in the death overs.
Buttler’s skill in T20 and ODI formats has made him a prominent name as a finisher. His ability to consistently hit sixes and fours in high-pressure scenarios has helped England secure several memorable victories. As a current star, he continues to evolve his skills, and his potential to become the best finisher is ever-growing.
5. Michael Hussey – Mr. Cricket
Michael Hussey, affectionately known as “Mr. Cricket,” was another Australian legend who excelled at finishing games. Known for his technical skill and strategic mind, Hussey had a way of calmly closing out games, especially in ODIs and T20s. He brought reliability and stability, often guiding Australia to victory with calculated aggression in the final overs.
One of Hussey’s most iconic finishes came in the 2010 ICC T20 World Cup semifinal against Pakistan, where he scored an unforgettable 60 off 24 balls, steering Australia to victory from a seemingly impossible position. His innings in that game are often cited as one of the best examples of finishing in cricket. Hussey’s consistency and experience make him a significant name in the discussion of the best finisher.
6. Conclusion: Who Holds the Crown?
It’s challenging to pinpoint a single “best” finisher, as each of these players has brought unique strengths to the role. However, if one had to choose, MS Dhoni’s consistent record in finishing high-stakes matches, his World Cup-winning moment, and his immense contribution to India’s success make him a top contender. Dhoni’s calmness, tactical acumen, and flair for ending matches with style have set him apart.
While other players like Bevan and de Villiers have excelled in their eras and formats, Dhoni’s versatility, longevity, and achievements in international and franchise cricket add a distinct weight to his legacy. Whether in the IPL or international arena, he has inspired a generation of who is the best finisher in the world who have taken cues from his composure and strategy.
Ultimately, the title of “the best finisher” may remain subjective, but MS Dhoni’s contribution and impact make a compelling case. In a game of intense pressure and slim margins, his ability to close matches with style and grace has left an indelible mark on cricket history.
