The Indian Premier League (IPL) is renowned for producing high-octane finishes, and the 2024 season was no different. In its 17th edition, Kolkata Knight Riders clinched their third title, outlasting Sunrisers Hyderabad in a thrilling final. While incredible batting performances were abundant throughout the tournament, the contribution of finishers, those players tasked with closing out games under pressure, cannot be overstated.
Here, we rank the top five finishers of IPL 2024, each of whom played a pivotal role in their team’s success:
5. Andre Russell (Kolkata Knight Riders)
Andre Russell’s trademark power-hitting was instrumental in KKR’s title run. The all-rounder consistently delivered explosive finishes, including a blistering knock of 64* in the opener against SRH. Russell accumulated 222 runs at an impressive strike rate of 185, smashing 20 sixes and contributing key cameos to KKR’s victories.
4. Nicholas Pooran (Lucknow Super Giants)
Nicholas Pooran shone brightly for Lucknow Super Giants, establishing himself as one of the tournament’s top finishers. His consistency stood out as he scored 499 runs with a staggering average of 62.37 and a strike rate of 178.21. His ability to clear the ropes, hitting 35 sixes, made him a crucial asset in LSG’s batting order.
3. MS Dhoni (Chennai Super Kings)
Even at the age of 43, MS Dhoni’s finishing skills remain unmatched. Dhoni redefined his role, entering late in innings and striking at a phenomenal rate. In IPL 2024, he amassed 161 runs at an incredible strike rate of 220.54, proving once again why he is one of the greatest finishers in IPL history.
2. Heinrich Klaasen (Sunrisers Hyderabad)
Heinrich Klaasen’s explosive batting for SRH was one of the highlights of the season. The South African powerhouse tallied 479 runs at a strike rate of 171.07, with 38 sixes to his name. Klaasen’s ability to finish innings with flair helped SRH in several nail-biting games.
1. Marcus Stoinis (Lucknow Super Giants)
At the top of the list is Marcus Stoinis, whose match-winning performances for LSG were nothing short of sensational. His most memorable contribution came at Chepauk Stadium, where his heroic century turned the game on its head. Stoinis scored 388 runs at a strike rate of 147.52, consistently changing the complexion of matches and proving to be the most impactful finisher of IPL 2024.
Each of these players demonstrated why finishing is a crucial, yet often underappreciated, role in T20 cricket. Their contributions in tight situations made all the difference in IPL 2024.
