Nail-biting Finishes: Every Successful Last-ball Run Chase At Men’s T20 World Cup

As the ninth edition of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup approaches, set to unfold in the West Indies and USA from June 1, cricket enthusiasts worldwide are gearing up for an exhilarating spectacle. With a record 20 teams vying for the prestigious silverware, this tournament promises unforgettable moments and nail-biting finishes. Historically, the T20 World Cup has been a stage where the improbable becomes possible, often culminating in thrilling last-ball victories. Here, we revisit every successful last-ball chase that has added to the tournament’s legacy of excitement and drama.

Netherlands vs. England (2009) – The First Last-Ball Miracle

The 2009 ICC Men’s T20 World Cup witnessed its first last-ball chase, etched in history by the Netherlands against England. The tournament’s opening match set the tone for what was to come.

England Sets a Competitive Target

England, batting first, looked in control with significant contributions from openers Ravi Bopara (46 runs off 34 balls) and Luke Wright (71 runs off 49 balls). Despite a solid start, Ryan ten Doeschate’s crucial wickets pegged England back, resulting in a total of 162/5.

A Stuttering Chase

The Dutch chase began shakily, losing openers Alexei Kervezee and Darron Reekers within the first four overs. Bas Zuiderent’s wicket soon followed, pushing the Netherlands to the brink of defeat.

Tom de Grooth’s Heroics

With the match slipping away, Tom de Grooth anchored the innings with a resilient 49 off 30 balls. As the tension peaked, the Netherlands needed two runs off the last ball. Capitalizing on Stuart Broad’s overthrow, the Netherlands achieved a historic victory at Lord’s, stunning the hosts and setting a precedent for dramatic finishes in the tournament.

Sri Lanka vs. India (2010) – An Asian Clash

In 2010, Sri Lanka and India provided another last-ball thriller, showcasing the fierce competition between the two Asian giants.

India’s Steady Start

India, led by Gautam Gambhir (41 runs off 32 balls) and Suresh Raina (63 runs off 47 balls), set a target of 164. Despite a disciplined spell from Lasith Malinga, who conceded just 25 runs and took two wickets, India posted a challenging total.

Sri Lanka’s Rocky Start

Sri Lanka’s chase began poorly, losing both openers within two overs. However, steady knocks from Tillakaratne Dilshan (33 off 26), Kumar Sangakkara (46 off 33), and Angelo Mathews (46 off 37) kept Sri Lanka in contention.

Kapugedera’s Finishing Touch

With the game hanging in the balance, Chamara Kapugedera’s explosive 37 off 16 balls was crucial. His last-ball six sealed the win for Sri Lanka, exemplifying the high-stakes drama that defines the T20 format.

Ireland vs. Zimbabwe (2014) – A Nail-Biting Group Stage Encounter

The 2014 edition of the tournament saw Ireland pull off a thrilling last-ball chase against Zimbabwe during the group stage, highlighting the competitive spirit of associate nations.

Zimbabwe Sets a Target

Zimbabwe, buoyed by Brendan Taylor’s captain’s knock of 59 off 46 balls, set a formidable total of 163/5. Irish bowlers Andy McBrine and George Dockrell were economical, but Zimbabwe’s middle order ensured a competitive score.

Ireland’s Dramatic Chase

Ireland’s chase was anchored by captain William Porterfield (31 off 23) and Paul Stirling (60 off 34). However, Tinashe Panyangara’s four-wicket haul brought Zimbabwe back into the contest. Needing four runs off the final over, Ireland scraped past with three wickets remaining, showcasing their resilience and determination.

Zimbabwe vs. Netherlands (2014) – Redemption for Zimbabwe

In the same 2014 tournament, Zimbabwe redeemed themselves with a last-ball victory against the Netherlands, demonstrating their ability to handle pressure.

Netherlands Struggle, Cooper Shines

Netherlands, struggling at the start, relied on Tom Cooper’s responsible 72 off 58 balls to post 140. Zimbabwe’s Prosper Utseya was instrumental with the ball, restricting the Dutch with his economical spell.

A Tight Finish

Zimbabwe’s chase was led by Hamilton Masakadza (43 off 45) and Brendan Taylor (49 off 39). Despite Pieter Seelaar’s two-wicket spell, Vusi Sibanda’s last-ball six secured a dramatic victory, highlighting the unpredictable nature of T20 cricket.

India vs. Pakistan (2022) – A Modern Classic

The 2022 edition featured one of the most memorable finishes in T20 World Cup history, as India edged out arch-rivals Pakistan in a last-ball thriller.

Pakistan Sets a Target

Batting first, Pakistan set a target of 160, thanks to Shan Masood’s steady 52 off 42 balls and Iftikhar Ahmed’s explosive 51 off 34. Arshdeep Singh’s early breakthroughs put Pakistan on the back foot, but their middle order rallied.

Kohli’s Masterclass

India’s chase faltered initially, losing KL Rahul and Rohit Sharma early. However, Virat Kohli’s exceptional performance, supported by Hardik Pandya’s 40 off 37, kept India in the hunt. With 13 runs required off three balls, Mohammad Nawaz’s no-ball turned the game. Kohli’s six off the free hit and Ravichandran Ashwin’s calm final ball shot over mid-off clinched a famous victory for India.

Anticipation for T20 World Cup 2024

As the T20 World Cup 2024 looms, the anticipation is palpable. The West Indies and USA will provide a unique backdrop for the tournament, with a record 20 teams competing. Fans eagerly await more last-ball thrillers that encapsulate the essence of T20 cricket – unpredictability, excitement, and edge-of-the-seat finishes.

These memorable last-ball chases have become part of the rich tapestry of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup, each adding a unique chapter to the tournament’s history. As we gear up for another edition, the hope is that we will witness more such thrilling moments that capture the imagination of cricket fans worldwide.

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