Craziest Cricket Matches Ever Played (Close Finishes & Drama)
Cricket is a sport defined by its unpredictability and drama. Over the decades, the game has produced matches so intense and nerve-wracking that they become instant classics—etched in the memories of fans forever. From miraculous comebacks to last-ball thrillers, these games are a testament to why cricket is called the "gentleman’s game" with a heart-stopping twist. In this article, we revisit some of the craziest cricket matches ever played, highlighting close finishes, heroic efforts, and unforgettable drama.
1. The 2005 Ashes: England vs Australia, Edgbaston – A Two-Run Nail-Biter
Few matches in cricket history are spoken of with as much awe as the second Test of the 2005 Ashes at Edgbaston. England set a challenging target, but Australia fought back valiantly. In a tension-filled finale, Australia needed just three runs with one wicket in hand. Steve Harmison bowled a short ball, Michael Kasprowicz gloved it to the keeper, and England clinched victory by a mere two runs. The stadium erupted, and cricket fans witnessed what many still call the closest finish in Test history, a moment that shifted the balance of the historic Ashes rivalry forever.[1]
2. 2007 T20 World Cup Final: India vs Pakistan – A New Era Begins
The inaugural T20 World Cup final between India and Pakistan was a dream clash. India, led by MS Dhoni, posted 157 runs, thanks to Gautam Gambhir’s resilient 75. Pakistan, with Misbah-ul-Haq at the helm, needed six runs from four balls. Misbah attempted an audacious scoop shot but was caught by Sreesanth, handing India a five-run win. This match not only delivered heart-stopping drama but also marked the birth of a new, fast-paced era in cricket.[1]
3. 2016 T20 World Cup Final: West Indies vs England – Sixes to Glory
The 2016 T20 World Cup final between England and the West Indies is remembered for its electrifying finish. England seemed poised for victory, but Carlos Brathwaite smashed four consecutive sixes in the final over, snatching an improbable win for the West Indies. The crowd was left in disbelief as one of the most explosive finishes in cricket history unfolded, cementing T20’s reputation for high-octane drama.[2]
4. New Zealand vs Australia, 2010 T20 World Cup – One-Run Thriller
When New Zealand and Australia face off, fireworks are guaranteed. In this 2010 T20 World Cup clash, New Zealand set a modest target of 147. Australia looked comfortable, but New Zealand’s bowlers staged a comeback. Tim Southee bowled a nerveless final over, conceding just four runs and taking a key wicket. New Zealand clinched victory by a single run, proving that even low-scoring games can produce unforgettable drama.[2]
5. 2019 World Cup Final: England vs New Zealand – Super Over Mayhem
Arguably the most dramatic ODI match ever, the 2019 World Cup final between England and New Zealand ended in a tie after 100 overs of play. The game went to a super over, which also ended in a tie—England won on the boundary count rule. Ben Stokes’ heroics, a deflection for four, and the unprecedented finish delivered a match that redefined cricket’s ability to shock and awe.[3]
6. The Gabba Miracle: India vs Australia, 2021 – Fortress Breached
The 2021 Test series decider at the Gabba, Brisbane, saw India chase down 328 to end Australia’s 32-year unbeaten streak at the venue. Rishabh Pant, Shubman Gill, and Cheteshwar Pujara delivered under immense pressure, scripting one of Test cricket’s greatest upsets and a historic moment for Indian cricket.[4]
7. West Indies vs Australia, 1993 – Last-Over Triumph
The West Indies’ thrilling victory over Australia during their 1993 tour Down Under is still spoken about for its drama. Australia, needing just a handful of runs, were halted by Courtney Walsh’s nerveless bowling in the final over, handing the West Indies a famous win and one of Test cricket’s most intense finishes.[5]
Watch: The Most Intense Test Match Finishes Ever
For a visual adrenaline rush, check out this compilation of the most thrilling last overs and nail-biting finishes in Test history:
What Makes These Matches So Special?
It’s the unpredictable human element—the collapse under pressure, the rise of unlikely heroes, and the tiny moments that change everything—that transforms a cricket match into legend. These games remind us why cricket is more than a sport: it’s a theatre of life, with all the tension, heartbreak, and euphoria that entails.