Cricket, a game of glorious uncertainties, has witnessed numerous nail-biting finishes. Among them, Last-ball cricket finishes thrillers hold a special place, leaving fans on the edge of their seats. Let’s delve into five such heart-stopping moments that have etched themselves into cricketing folklore
1. India vs. Bangladesh – Nidahas Trophy Final, 2018
In the Nidahas Trophy final, India faced Bangladesh in a T20I showdown. Chasing 167, India needed 34 runs off the last two overs. Dinesh Karthik’s entry turned the game on its head. With five runs required off the final delivery, Karthik smashed a six over extra cover, sealing a remarkable victory for India
2. West Indies vs. England – T20 World Cup Final, 2016
The 2016 T20 World Cup final saw West Indies needing 19 runs in the last over against England. Carlos Brathwaite rose to the occasion, hitting four consecutive sixes off Ben Stokes, clinching the title for the West Indies in a dramatic fashion
3. India vs. Pakistan – T20 World Cup, 2022
In a high-octane clash at the Melbourne Cricket Ground, India chased 160 against arch-rivals Pakistan. With two runs needed off the final ball, Ravichandran Ashwin calmly lofted the ball over mid-off, securing a memorable win for India
4. Netherlands vs. England – T20 World Cup, 2009
In a major upset, the Netherlands faced England in the 2009 T20 World Cup. Chasing 163, the Dutch needed two runs off the final ball. A misfield allowed them to complete the required runs, leading to a historic victory over England
5. Pakistan vs. India – Austral-Asia Cup Final, 1986
One of the most iconic finishes in cricket history occurred in Sharjah during the Austral-Asia Cup final. With four runs needed off the last ball, Javed Miandad hit a six off Chetan Sharma, leading Pakistan to a stunning win over India.
Conclusion:
Cricket fans live for moments that push adrenaline to its peak, and Last-ball cricket finishes deliver just that. From Karthik’s unforgettable six in the Nidahas Trophy to Brathwaite’s blitz in the World T20 final, each match tells a story of nerves, brilliance, and unmatched drama. These heart-pounding endings not only showcase individual heroics but also highlight why cricket remains one of the most thrilling sports on the planet. As long as games go down to the wire, the spirit of cricket will continue to thrive in the hearts of fans around the world.
