Top 10 Best Finishers in the Cricket World 2025: MS Dhoni Leads the Way

Who is the Best Finisher Batsman in the Cricket World

A finisher is a player who succeeds at bringing games to a close, especially in Twenty20 and One-Day Internationals (ODIs) when the team is under pressure and a high run rate is required. Many players have demonstrated their ability to finish games over the years, but Mahendra Singh Dhoni (MS Dhoni) is the name that stands out the most.

Dhoni is considered the best finisher in cricket history and is regarded as one of the most successful captains and wicketkeepers of all time. His tremendous hitting power, exceptional tactical awareness, and capacity for calmness in high-stress chase situations.

Top 10 Best Finishers in the Cricket World History

While Dhoni is often considered the best, several other players have also made significant impacts with their finishing skills. Below are the top 10 finishers who have stood out for their remarkable performances in the game’s critical moments:

1. MS Dhoni (India)

• ODI Runs: 10,773 | T20I Runs: 1,617 | Test Runs: 4,876

• Batting Average: ODI 50.57, T20I 52.34, Test 38.1

Dhoni’s iconic game-winning six in the 2011 World Cup final, combined with his calm demeanor, tactical brilliance, and remarkable batting skills, has solidified his place in cricket history, especially for his ability to perform under immense pressure.

2. Virat Kohli (India)

• ODI Runs: 13,963 | T20I Runs: 4,188 | Test Runs: 9,230

• Batting Average: ODI 59.07, T20I 48.7, Test 46.9

Kohli’s iconic moments, particularly his ability to finish matches against Australia and New Zealand, along with his exceptional chase skills, have established him as a consistent performer under pressure, making him one of the best finishers in cricket.

3. AB de Villiers (South Africa)

• ODI Runs: 9,577 | T20I Runs: 1,672 | Test Runs: 8,765

• Iconic Moment: His 41-ball century in the 2015 World Cup.

• Batting Average: ODI 53.50, T20I 26.1, Test 50.7

Known for his innovative shot-making and explosive batting, AB de Villiers could turn games around in ODIs and T20Is.

4. Jos Buttler (England)

• ODI Runs: 5,114 | T20I Runs: 3,535 | Test Runs: 2,907

• Iconic Moment: Buttler's 80* in the 2019 World Cup final.

• Batting Average: ODI 39.3, T20I 35.4, Test 31.9

Known for his explosive batting and match-winning performances, especially in the 2019 World Cup final.

5. Michael Bevan (Australia)

• ODI Runs: 6,538 | Test Runs: 785

• Iconic Moment: Bevan's composure in tight run-chases.

• Batting Average: ODI 53.58, Test 29.1

Bevan's calm and controlled batting under pressure earned him a reputation as Australia's finest finisher.

6. David Miller (South Africa)

• ODI Runs: 4,490 | T20I Runs: 2,591

• Iconic Moment: Miller’s consistent performances in tight situations.

• Batting Average: ODI 41.6, T20I 33.2

A reliable finisher known for his powerful hitting and composure under pressure.

7. Kieron Pollard (West Indies)

• ODI Runs: 2,706 | T20I Runs: 1,569

• Iconic Moment: Pollard’s explosive finishes in T20s.

• Batting Average: ODI 25.3, T20I 26.01

Description: Known for his power-hitting, Pollard can change the game with his quick-fire innings.

8. Shahid Afridi (Pakistan)

• ODI Runs: 8,064 | T20I Runs: 1,416 | Test Runs: 1716

• Iconic Moment: His explosive hitting in pressure situations.

• Batting Average: ODI 23.57, T20I 17.9 Test 36.5

"Boom Boom" Afridi’s powerful striking made him one of the most exciting finishers.

9. Andre Russell (West Indies)

• ODI Runs: 1,034 | T20I Runs: 1,063 | Test Runs: 2

• Iconic Moment: Russell's explosive finishes in T20 cricket.

• Batting Average: ODI 25.65, T20I 22.1, Test 2

With his strength and explosive power, Russell is one of the most dangerous finishers in T20 cricket.

10. Corey Anderson (New Zealand)

• ODI Runs: 1,109 | T20I Runs: 697 | Test Runs: 683

• Iconic Moment: Anderson’s 131* against India in 2014.

• Batting Average: ODI 27.7, T20I 24.9, Test 32.5

Anderson's strong hitting and sharp cricketing mind made him a key finisher for New Zealand.

Why MS Dhoni is the No. 1 finisher in cricket?

MS Dhoni’s legendary calmness under pressure makes him one of the finest finishers in the world. No matter how tense the situation, Dhoni remains unshaken, earning him the nickname “Captain Cool.” His approach to chasing targets is unparalleled—he builds partnerships and accelerates when needed, guiding his team to victory.

A defining moment in his career came during the 2011 World Cup final, where Dhoni played an unbeaten knock of 91*, sealing the game with a six. This, along with his remarkable ability to stay not out in pressure situations, has made him a symbol of finishing excellence.

His signature helicopter shot is a hallmark of his dominance in the death overs, further establishing his legacy as one of the best finishers cricket has ever seen.

Conclusion

MS Dhoni’s ability to stay calm under pressure, read the game, and execute his skills flawlessly makes him the greatest finisher in cricket history. His legacy, especially highlighted by the 2011 World Cup final, has solidified his place as the "King of Finishers."

FAQs

Is Shahid Afridi the best finisher in the world?

No, MS Dhoni is considered the best due to his consistency and composure.

Who is the best finisher in the IPL? MS Dhoni, known for his match-winning performances with Chennai Super Kings.

Who is the God of finishers? MS Dhoni, praised for his unmatched finishing ability.

Is Dhoni really the best finisher? Yes, his record and iconic moments prove he’s the greatest.