Cricket is often described as a game of glorious uncertainties — and nothing captures that better than a last-ball finish. Over the years, the sport has produced some unforgettable matches where fortunes changed with the very final delivery. Here’s a look at some of the most thrilling last-ball finishes in cricket history.
1. Javed Miandad’s Six vs India, Sharjah 1986
Arguably the most iconic last-ball finish in cricket. Pakistan needed 4 runs to win the Austral-Asia Cup final against India. With Chetan Sharma running in, Javed Miandad smashed the last ball for a six over mid-wicket, sealing a famous victory and etching his name in cricketing folklore.
2. MS Dhoni’s Calm Finish vs Australia, Adelaide 2012
India needed 13 runs from the last over in an ODI against Australia. Dhoni, the master finisher, kept his cool and launched Clint McKay for a massive six when 12 were needed from 4 balls. India sealed the win with just 2 balls to spare, showcasing Dhoni’s unmatched composure under pressure.
3. England vs New Zealand – World T20 2010
In a group-stage clash, England required 2 runs off the last ball. Tim Southee bowled a yorker, but Tim Bresnan scampered for a desperate single, and a misfield allowed England to snatch victory. Though not a final, it highlighted the drama of T20 cricket.
4. West Indies vs England – World T20 Final 2016
Carlos Brathwaite’s heroics remain one of the greatest last-over spectacles. West Indies needed 19 from the final over against England. Brathwaite smashed Ben Stokes for four consecutive sixes, sealing the T20 World Cup with 2 balls to spare. The phrase “Remember the name!” still echoes in fans’ memories.
5. India vs Bangladesh – World T20 2016, Bengaluru
Bangladesh needed just 2 runs from 3 balls against India in a tense group match. But Hardik Pandya’s nerves of steel and MS Dhoni’s lightning-fast run-out on the final ball helped India snatch an improbable 1-run win — a finish that still stuns fans.
6. South Africa vs Sri Lanka – ODI 2000, Johannesburg
With the scores tied and one run needed off the last ball, Allan Donald scampered through for a single to hand South Africa a thrilling win. It remains one of the closest finishes in ODI history.
7. Kieron Pollard’s Last-Ball Six, CPL 2019
Representing Trinbago Knight Riders, Pollard needed 6 off the last ball. True to his power-hitting reputation, he launched the ball straight into the stands, scripting another CPL classic.
