The Indian Premier League (IPL) has become the pinnacle of T20 cricket, where players from around the world showcase their explosive batting skills. One of the most crucial roles in T20 cricket is that of a finisher. These players come in during the final overs and take their team over the line when the game is on the edge. But who is the best finisher in IPL? This question is often debated by cricket fans, as there have been many who have stood out in pressure situations.
Here, we break down the top contenders for the title of best finisher in IPL history.
1. MS Dhoni (Chennai Super Kings): The Ultimate Finisher
When discussing the best finisher in IPL, MS Dhoni’s name inevitably comes up. The legendary Indian cricketer has been an iconic figure in the IPL, especially for his ability to finish matches under pressure. Whether it's hitting a six to win the game or guiding his team through a tense chase, Dhoni has been the backbone of Chennai Super Kings’ success in the IPL. His calmness and ability to read the game make him one of the best finishers ever to grace the IPL.
2. Kieron Pollard (Mumbai Indians): The Power-Hitting Maestro
Kieron Pollard is another contender for the best finisher in IPL. His powerful hitting has made him a nightmare for bowlers in the final overs. Pollard’s strength, coupled with his ability to clear the boundary at will, has seen him win many matches for Mumbai Indians. His performances in IPL finals, where he has often taken his team to victory with big hits, solidifies his place as one of the greatest finishers in IPL history.
3. Hardik Pandya (Mumbai Indians): A Rising Star
Hardik Pandya is quickly establishing himself as one of the best finishers in IPL. Known for his explosive batting, Pandya has taken on the responsibility of finishing games for Mumbai Indians in recent seasons. His calmness under pressure, combined with his ability to hit big sixes in the final overs, makes him one of the most dangerous finishers in T20 cricket.
4. Dwayne Bravo (Chennai Super Kings): The All-Rounder Finisher
Dwayne Bravo is known for his all-around abilities, but his finishing skills in the IPL are remarkable. As a death bowler and a finisher with the bat, Bravo has been instrumental in Chennai Super Kings’ successes over the years. His consistent performances in the final overs, with both bat and ball, have earned him a spot as one of the best finishers in IPL.
5. AB de Villiers (Royal Challengers Bangalore): The Innovative Finisher
AB de Villiers is one of the most dynamic and innovative finishers in IPL history. Known for his ability to hit unconventional shots, de Villiers can take the game away from the opposition in the final overs. His flexibility and adaptability in T20 cricket make him a standout finisher. Whether it’s hitting through the covers or launching the ball over deep mid-wicket, AB’s versatility makes him a serious contender for the best finisher in IPL.
6. Shane Watson (Chennai Super Kings): The Experienced Finisher
Shane Watson, a former all-rounder for Chennai Super Kings, played a crucial role as a finisher in several IPL seasons. With his experience and ability to strike the ball cleanly, Watson often provided the much-needed stability in the middle and late overs of the game. His calmness and ability to find the boundary under pressure made him one of the best finishers during his IPL career.
7. Ravindra Jadeja (Chennai Super Kings): The Silent Finisher
Ravindra Jadeja might not always grab the headlines, but his finishing ability for Chennai Super Kings has been critical in many tight situations. With his ability to hit the ball into the stands and his intelligent batting, Jadeja has delivered several game-changing moments. He might not always get the limelight, but his contributions as a finisher are significant, placing him among the best finishers in IPL.
8. David Miller (Rajasthan Royals): The Big-Hitting Finisher
David Miller’s big-hitting ability makes him one of the most dangerous finishers in IPL cricket. His aggressive approach in the final overs has earned him many accolades. Miller can take the game away from the opposition with his sheer power and ability to find boundaries under pressure, making him one of the most reliable finishers in the IPL.
9. Rishabh Pant (Delhi Capitals): The Fearless Finisher
Rishabh Pant’s fearless batting style has made him one of the most exciting young finishers in IPL history. Whether it’s in the middle overs or at the death, Pant’s ability to take on the bowlers and finish games with style has made him one of the most dangerous finishers in modern IPL cricket. His ability to handle pressure and play big shots makes him a strong contender for the best finisher in IPL.
10. Irfan Pathan (Delhi Daredevils): The Overlooked Finisher
While Irfan Pathan may not be the first name that comes to mind, his finishing abilities in IPL are often underrated. With his ability to hit a few lusty blows in the final overs, Pathan has played some crucial roles for his teams in the IPL, helping them to achieve difficult targets under pressure.
Conclusion: Who Is the Best Finisher in IPL?
The title of best finisher in IPL is highly subjective, with many players demonstrating exceptional abilities to win matches for their teams in the final overs. While MS Dhoni stands out as a true legend of the IPL, Kieron Pollard, Hardik Pandya, and AB de Villiers are all strong contenders for this title. The IPL has seen some truly remarkable finishers over the years, and each one brings something unique to the table.
mukul singh 
