What Are the Most Thrilling Last-Ball Run Chases in Men’s T20 World Cup History? 

With the ninth edition of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup just around the corner, fans worldwide are eagerly anticipating the high-stakes drama that this tournament consistently delivers. Set to take place in the West Indies and USA from June 1, this edition will feature a record 20 teams vying for the prestigious silverware. The T20 World Cup has a rich history of nail-biting finishes, particularly those that go down to the very last ball. Let’s revisit some of the most thrilling last-ball run chases in the tournament’s history.

Netherlands vs England (2009)

The first successful last-ball chase in T20 World Cup history came in 2009 when the Netherlands stunned England. England posted 162/5, with Ravi Bopara (46 off 34) and Luke Wright (71 off 49) leading the charge. 

The Netherlands, despite losing key wickets, stayed in the game thanks to Tom de Grooth’s 49 off 30. With two runs needed off the last ball, a fumble from Stuart Broad allowed the Netherlands to secure a historic victory at Lord’s, marking one of the biggest upsets in T20 World Cup history.

Sri Lanka vs India (2010)

In a memorable 2010 match, Sri Lanka achieved a last-ball chase against India. India set 163/5, with Gautam Gambhir (41 off 32) and Suresh Raina (63 off 47) contributing. 

Despite a shaky start, Sri Lanka stayed in the game with key innings from Tillakaratne Dilshan, Kumar Sangakkara, and Angelo Mathews. Chamara Kapugedera sealed the win with a last-ball six, highlighting the thrilling unpredictability of T20 cricket.

Ireland vs Zimbabwe (2014)

In the 2014 T20 World Cup, Ireland and Zimbabwe faced off in a gripping match. Zimbabwe set a target of 164, led by Brendan Taylor’s 59 off 46. Ireland’s chase was strong, with William Porterfield (31 off 23) and Paul Stirling (60 off 34) providing a solid start. 

Tinashe Panyangara’s four-wicket haul brought Zimbabwe back into contention, leading to a tense finish. Ireland needed four runs off the final over and secured a thrilling last-ball victory with three wickets in hand.

Zimbabwe vs Netherlands (2014)

In the same tournament, Zimbabwe found themselves on the winning side of another last-ball chase, this time against the Netherlands. The Netherlands struggled initially, but Tom Cooper’s resilient 72 off 58 guided them to a respectable total of 140. Zimbabwe’s chase saw significant contributions from Hamilton Masakadza (43 off 45) and Brendan Taylor (49 off 39).

The match reached its climax with Zimbabwe needing one run off the last ball. Vusi Sibanda ensured a stylish finish by hitting a six, giving Zimbabwe a hard-fought victory and redemption for their earlier defeat.

India vs Pakistan (2022)

In the 2022 T20 World Cup, India pulled off an iconic last-ball chase against Pakistan. Pakistan set a target of 160, with key contributions from Shan Masood (52 off 42) and Iftikhar Ahmed (51 off 34).

India’s chase faltered early, but Virat Kohli’s brilliant innings, along with Hardik Pandya’s 40 off 37, revived their hopes. With 13 needed off the last three balls, Kohli hit a no-ball six off Mohammad Nawaz. Ravichandran Ashwin then lofted the final ball over mid-off, securing a thrilling victory for India.

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