IPL: Top 5 Best Finishers in IPL History (2024 Edition)
IPL: Top 5 – The IPL thrives on last-minute heroics, and at the heart of this drama are the finishers. These middle-order batsmen take the crease with the pressure cooker on high, tasked with guiding their team to victory under tight situations. Here’s a look at the top 10 finishers who’ve consistently delivered in the IPL:
- MS Dhoni (CSK): The undisputed king of the death overs, Dhoni’s calm demeanor and ability to hit big sixes have earned him the title of “Captain Cool.” With the highest runs (over 2,600) and most sixes (over 160) in the death overs, Dhoni’s numerous last-over finishes are etched in IPL folklore.
- AB de Villiers (RCB): Mr. 360, with his unorthodox shots and lightning-fast reflexes, could single-handedly snatch victory from the jaws of defeat. While no longer with RCB, his IPL legacy as a finisher with over 1,400 runs and 110+ sixes in the death overs remains unmatched.
- Kieron Pollard (MI): The big-hitting Trinidadian was a pillar of Mumbai Indians’ success. Pollard’s brute force and ability to clear the ropes with ease made him a nightmare for bowlers in the later stages. He boasts over 1,700 runs and over 120 sixes in the death overs.
- Andre Russell (KKR): Similar to Pollard, Russell is a Caribbean powerhouse known for his six-hitting prowess. With his all-rounder skills, he can not only score quickly but also chip in with crucial wickets. He has over 1,000 runs and over 80 sixes in the death overs.
- Ravindra Jadeja (CSK): Dhoni’s trusted lieutenant, Jadeja has emerged as a dependable finisher in recent seasons. His left-handed batting and ability to rotate the strike effectively make him a valuable asset in the slog overs. He has over 800 runs and over 50 sixes in the death overs.
IPL: Top 5 – Other Notable Finishers:
- Dinesh Karthik (various teams): The veteran wicket-keeper batsman has impressed with his finishing skills in recent years, often playing crucial cameos towards the end.
- Rohit Sharma (MI): Though primarily an opener, Rohit has the ability to bat aggressively in the latter stages if needed. His experience and power-hitting make him a valuable finisher.
- Hardik Pandya (MI): Another explosive all-rounder, Pandya can turn the tide of a match with his big-hitting and bowling skills.
- Virat Kohli (RCB): While known for his consistent batting throughout the innings, Kohli has also delivered some memorable finishing knocks for RCB.
- David Miller (various teams): The South African southpaw is known for his clean hitting and ability to accelerate the scoring rate in the death overs.
What makes a great finisher?
While statistics like runs scored and strike rate are important, the true mark of a great finisher lies in their temperament under pressure. The ability to stay calm, handle high-pressure situations, and take calculated risks separates the good from the great.
Who will emerge as the next big finisher?
The IPL is a breeding ground for young talent, and with each season, new contenders emerge for the finisher’s role. Players like Rishabh Pant, Shreyas Iyer, and Rahul Tripathi have shown glimpses of finishing prowess, and it will be interesting to see who steps up to claim the finisher’s crown in the seasons to come.
DISCLAIMER: This team is based on the understanding, analysis, and instinct of the author. While selecting your team, consider the points mentioned and make your own decision.
