In the Indian Premier League (IPL), a league known for its exhilarating cricketing action, the role of a “finisher” is absolutely crucial. A finisher is the player who comes in during the final overs of a match and delivers when the pressure is at its peak. Whether it’s through boundary hitting, clever shot placement, or maintaining composure under immense pressure, finishers play a pivotal role in deciding the outcome of matches.
This article delves into the top 5 best finishers in the IPL, showcasing players who have consistently demonstrated the ability to perform under pressure and turn the game in their team’s favor. These players have earned their reputations with their remarkable performances in high-stakes situations, making them some of the most valuable assets in the IPL.
The Importance of Finishers in the IPL
In cricket, the role of a finisher is often misunderstood or underestimated. A finisher is typically required to handle the pressure of a tight match, especially in the final overs when the game can go either way. IPL is known for its fast-paced format, and most matches come down to the last few overs, where the ability to hit sixes and make quick runs is often the difference between winning and losing.
The IPL has seen many players shine in these high-pressure situations. These players, often coming in at the death overs, use their experience, skills, and mindset to deliver the goods for their team when it matters most. The IPL has witnessed several such iconic finishers, and this article highlights the top 5 best finishers the league has ever seen.
What Makes a Good Finisher in Cricket?
A good finisher in cricket is not just someone who hits sixes. It’s about the ability to handle pressure, read the match situation, and capitalize on every opportunity in the final overs. Key attributes of a good finisher include:
- Mental Strength: The ability to stay calm and composed under pressure. Finishers need to focus on the job at hand and not get distracted by the crowd, the situation, or the opponent’s tactics.
- Power Hitting: Being able to hit the ball hard, especially in the death overs when boundaries and sixes are the most efficient way to score.
- Match Awareness: A good finisher knows when to accelerate and when to take a few singles. This situational awareness allows them to pace their innings according to the match requirements.
- Ability to Play Under Pressure: In the IPL, finishers often find themselves playing at a critical time with very few deliveries remaining. A finisher must be able to keep their cool and deliver in those last crucial moments.
Top 5 Best Finishers in the IPL
The role of a finisher in the IPL is crucial, often deciding the outcome of close matches. These players have mastered the art of performing under pressure, delivering match-winning performances in the final overs. From the iconic MS Dhoni to the explosive Hardik Pandya, here are the top 5 best finishers in IPL history who have consistently turned games in their team’s favor when it matters most.
1. MS Dhoni
| Role | Wicketkeeper-batsman |
| IPL Team(s) | Chennai Super Kings (CSK) |
Why MS Dhoni is the Best Finisher: MS Dhoni, also known as “Captain Cool,” is undoubtedly one of the greatest finishers in the history of the IPL. With his calm demeanor and ability to perform under pressure, Dhoni has often taken his team to victory in seemingly impossible situations.
- IPL Stats: MS Dhoni has scored over 4700 runs in the IPL at a strike rate of 137.9. His ability to strike sixes and boundaries in the final overs is unmatched. He is known for his last-ball finishes and his knack for taking the game down to the wire and winning it.
- Signature Moments: Dhoni’s iconic six to seal the 2010 IPL final against Mumbai Indians is a prime example of his finishing ability. He has consistently led CSK to playoffs, and his game awareness and sharp cricketing mind have made him a crucial finisher for his team.
- Mental Toughness: Dhoni’s ability to remain calm in tense situations, along with his experience in handling high-pressure games, makes him one of the best finishers in the IPL. His finish in the 2018 IPL final is still etched in the memories of fans, where he guided his team to victory with his composed hitting.
2. AB de Villiers
| Role | Batsman |
| IPL Team(s) | Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) |
Why AB de Villiers is One of the Best Finishers: AB de Villiers, affectionately known as “Mr. 360,” is not just a dynamic batsman but also one of the most explosive finishers in IPL history. His ability to play shots all around the ground, combined with his innovative stroke play, makes him a lethal weapon in the final overs.
- IPL Stats: With over 5000 runs in the IPL at a strike rate of 151.2, de Villiers is one of the most destructive finishers the game has seen. His adaptability to different match situations and the variety in his shot-making make him an invaluable player for RCB.
- Signature Moments: One of the most memorable moments of AB de Villiers’ career came in 2016 when he took on the Gujarat Lions in a match where he hit 129* off 52 balls, a knock that showcased his ability to finish games with finesse and flair.
- Versatility: Known for his unorthodox style, de Villiers is a master of improvisation. His ability to play innovative shots, whether it’s a reverse sweep or a ramp shot, makes him one of the most dangerous finishers in the IPL.
3. Kieron Pollard
| Role | All-rounder |
| IPL Team(s) | Mumbai Indians (MI) |
Why Kieron Pollard is a Great Finisher: Kieron Pollard, the big-hitting West Indian all-rounder, is a cornerstone of Mumbai Indians’ success. Pollard has been one of the most destructive finishers in IPL history, combining raw power with the ability to read the game and assess situations.
- IPL Stats: Pollard has scored over 3000 runs at an impressive strike rate of 146.9 in IPL matches. His ability to turn games around in the final overs has helped Mumbai Indians win several crucial matches.
- Signature Moments: Pollard’s explosive innings in the 2019 IPL playoff match against Chennai Super Kings, where he hit key boundaries in the final overs, is a perfect example of his finishing prowess. His ability to clear the boundary with ease makes him a match-winner.
- Experience: Pollard’s years of experience and the ability to handle pressure have made him a valuable finisher for MI. He is known for stepping up in crucial moments and delivering with both bat and ball.
4. Dwayne Bravo
| Role | All-rounder |
| IPL Team(s) | Chennai Super Kings (CSK) |
Why Dwayne Bravo is a Reliable Finisher: Dwayne Bravo is an expert at finishing games, whether it’s with his bowling or batting. Known for his flair with the bat and exceptional death bowling skills, Bravo has consistently proven to be a reliable finisher for Chennai Super Kings.
- IPL Stats: Bravo has scored over 1500 runs in the IPL with a strike rate of 130.6. His ability to hit big sixes in the final overs has made him a vital asset in crunch moments.
- Signature Moments: Bravo’s ability to bowl in the final overs and control the game’s tempo has often helped CSK get over the line. He has been a part of several successful IPL campaigns, and his contribution in the lower order has been crucial.
- Death Over Specialist: Bravo is one of the best death over bowlers in IPL history, known for his variations and ability to handle pressure. His skills with both bat and ball make him a versatile finisher.
5. Hardik Pandya
| Role | All-rounder |
| IPL Team(s) | Mumbai Indians (MI) |
Why Hardik Pandya is an Emerging Finisher: Hardik Pandya has established himself as one of the best young finishers in the IPL. With his ability to hit massive sixes and play fearlessly in the final overs, Pandya has been an asset for Mumbai Indians during their title-winning campaigns.
- IPL Stats: Pandya has accumulated over 1500 runs in the IPL with a strike rate of 142.5, showcasing his ability to accelerate the scoring in the last few overs.
- Signature Moments: Hardik Pandya’s memorable innings during the 2019 IPL final, where he delivered under immense pressure, exemplifies his finishing ability. His powerful hitting and composure in tight situations have made him one of the top finishers in the league.
- Power and Composure: Pandya is known for his power hitting and ability to play the big shots when needed. His calmness in high-pressure situations and his knack for hitting boundaries make him a reliable finisher for MI.
Honorable Mentions
While the top 5 finishers highlighted above are undoubtedly among the best, the IPL has seen other exceptional finishers who deserve mention:
- Rishabh Pant (Delhi Capitals): Pant’s power-hitting ability and fearless approach make him a reliable finisher.
- Shimron Hetmyer (Delhi Capitals): Hetmyer’s ability to play explosive knocks under pressure has added value to DC’s batting lineup.
- Sanju Samson (Rajasthan Royals): Samson’s finishing ability has often been a game-changer for RR in the IPL.
Why Finishers Are Crucial in the IPL
In conclusion, finishers are integral to the IPL’s exciting nature. Their ability to handle pressure, execute big shots, and turn the game around in the final moments is what makes them so valuable. From the legendary MS Dhoni to the rising star Hardik Pandya, these players have defined the art of finishing games in the IPL. Their contributions not only entertain fans but also lead their teams to victories in some of the most nail-biting encounters in the history of the league.
The IPL is full of match-winners, but the finishers bring a unique excitement, often deciding the outcomes of matches in the dying moments. Their consistency in high-pressure situations is what truly sets them apart as the top finishers in the league.
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FAQs about Top 5 Best Finishers in the IPL
MS Dhoni is widely regarded as the best finisher in IPL history. His calmness under pressure, sharp cricketing mind, and ability to hit big in crucial moments have made him a legend of the IPL.
A great finisher possesses mental toughness, the ability to hit big shots under pressure, match awareness, and the ability to keep calm in high-pressure situations, especially in the last few overs of a game.
Yes, Hardik Pandya has emerged as one of the best finishers in the IPL due to his power-hitting ability, composure in tough situations, and his knack for delivering big shots when his team needs it the most.
MS Dhoni is considered the best finisher because of his unparalleled ability to finish games in the final overs with calm precision, his remarkable leadership skills, and his consistent ability to hit boundaries and sixes under pressure.
Kieron Pollard has one of the highest strike rates as a finisher in IPL history. With a strike rate above 140, Pollard’s explosive hitting makes him a dangerous finisher for Mumbai Indians.
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