Discover the top 20 cricket best moments that shaped the sport’s history. Relive emotional wins, iconic innings, and unforgettable cricket memories.
Top 20 Cricket Best Moments That Changed the Sport Forever
Cricket is more than just a game. It’s emotion, passion, drama, and unforgettable memories. Over the years, the sport has given fans countless moments that remain etched in history. From last-ball thrillers to heroic comebacks, The sport has consistently delivered some of the greatest sporting memories of all time.
In this blog, we will relive Top 20 cricket best moments that shaped the sport forever. These highlights not only entertained the world but also inspired millions of fans and future players. Each moment reflects how The sport unites nations, sparks celebrations, and creates legendary stories.
Table of Contents
Why These Cricket Moments Matter
Every epic cricket memory carries a story — a battle of nerves, a miracle comeback, or a moment when time froze. These historic events matter because:
- They changed how the world viewed The field
- They rated teams, legends, and rivalries
- They created unforgettable emotional connections
- They pushed the sport toward modern evolution
Now let’s dive deep into the Top 20 cricket best moments.
Top 20 Cricket Best Moments of All Time
1. India Lifts the 2011 World Cup After 28 Years
The 2011 ICC Cricket World Cup final became one of the most emotional and unforgettable achievements in India’s sporting history. After 28 long years, India finally lifted the World Cup again, creating a moment that every cricket fan still cherishes. It wasn’t just a victory — it was the fulfillment of a dream that began in 1983 and lived on through generations of cricket lovers.
The High-Pressure Final in Mumbai
On April 2, 2011, the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai was filled with anticipation, excitement, and tension. Millions of fans across the world were glued to their screens. The entire nation hoped for a magical night.
Sri Lanka set a competitive total of 275, thanks to Mahela Jayawardene’s elegant century. It was clear that the chase would test India’s determination and character.
Early Wickets Create Shock and Silence
India’s chase began with unexpected setbacks.
Virender Sehwag fell for a duck, and soon after, Sachin Tendulkar — the heart of Indian cricket — departed for just 18 runs. The silence in the stadium was heavy. India had lost two major wickets, and pressure was at its peak.
But this pressure created heroes.
Gautam Gambhir’s Steady and Courageous Innings
Gautam Gambhir stepped up when India needed stability the most. His composed 97-run knock became the backbone of India’s chase. He played with focus, determination, and incredible mental strength.
Gambhir’s innings didn’t just add runs to the board — it calmed the nerves of the entire nation. His partnership with Virat Kohli revived India’s hopes and kept the match alive.
MS Dhoni’s Bold Decision and Match-Winning Knock
When the situation demanded calmness and clarity, captain MS Dhoni promoted himself ahead of in-form Yuvraj Singh. This bold and unexpected decision became the turning point of the final.
Dhoni played a masterclass innings of 91* runs.
With flawless timing, excellent shot selection, and a captain’s responsibility, he took India closer to the victory that millions had waited for.
The Iconic Winning Six That Created History
The match reached its final moments, and India was just a few runs away from glory. Nuwan Kulasekara bowled, Dhoni stepped forward, and the ball sailed over long-on for a towering six.
The commentator’s legendary words echoed across the world:
“Dhoni finishes off in style!”
This six is one of the most celebrated cricket shots in history. It symbolized confidence, leadership, and the beginning of India’s new cricket era.
Emotional Celebrations Across the Nation
The celebrations that followed were pure emotion.
- The players lifted Sachin Tendulkar on their shoulders
- The stadium roared like never before
- Fans cried, hugged, and danced on the streets
- Fireworks lit up the night sky across India
Yuvraj Singh — battling cancer unknowingly — became the Player of the Tournament. Sachin finally achieved his lifelong dream. Dhoni became a national hero.
It was a moment that united an entire country.
Why This Moment Will Always Be Special
The 2011 World Cup victory is unforgettable because:
- It ended a 28-year drought
- It fulfilled Sachin Tendulkar’s dream
- It showcased India’s rise as a cricket powerhouse
- It displayed incredible teamwork and leadership
- It inspired millions of young cricketers
This moment didn’t just change Indian cricket — it changed world cricket.
2. Ben Stokes’ Miracle Innings in the 2019 Ashes
Ben Stokes’ Miracle Innings in the 2019 Ashes
Ben Stokes’ unforgettable performance in the 2019 Ashes at Headingley is widely considered one of the greatest innings in cricket history. It wasn’t just about scoring runs — it was about courage, belief, and fighting against impossible odds. This innings turned a lost match into an extraordinary victory, giving England a moment that fans will remember forever.
A Seemingly Impossible Chase
England needed 359 runs to win, one of the highest fourth-innings chases in Ashes history. What looked impossible became even harder when England collapsed early in the match. As wickets fell one after another, Australia tightened their grip.
By the time Ben Stokes walked in, England’s chances were hanging by a thread. Many believed the match was already over. But Stokes had other plans.
Stokes’ Grit, Patience, and Sheer Determination
Ben Stokes started cautiously. He defended everything, leaving dangerous deliveries and blocking patiently. For a long time, he focused only on survival. Every run felt precious, every partnership crucial.
His calm presence at the crease was the only hope left for England.
Slowly, he began rotating the strike and playing smart cricket. As Ben Stokes settled in, the Headingley crowd sensed that something incredible might be unfolding.
Turning Pressure Into Power
When England were 286/9, the match looked finished. Only Jack Leach, the last batsman, was left. Australia needed just one wicket. England needed 73 more runs. It looked completely impossible.
But Stokes transformed pressure into power.
He switched gears instantly:
- Hitting fearless boundaries
- Smashing sixes over midwicket
- Reverse sweeping fast bowlers
- Destroying Nathan Lyon’s spin attack
Every shot felt like a punch back at Australia. The stadium erupted with every boundary. Fans started believing in a miracle.
The Final Overs Full of Drama
The last phase of the match was pure drama.
- Australia missed a crucial run-out chance
- A catch was dropped
- Reviews were wasted
- Stokes kept hitting unbelievable shots
Jack Leach, at the other end, held his nerve and defended bravely. His famous “1 run” and calm presence helped Stokes do the impossible.
The Winning Shot That Shocked the World
With England needing two runs to win, Stokes played a controlled shot through the off-side. The crowd exploded.
England had done it.
Stokes had done it.
This wasn’t just a win — it was a statement of resilience, skill, and an unbreakable fighting spirit. The Headingley miracle instantly became one of the greatest Ashes moments ever.
Why Stokes’ Innings Will Never Be Forgotten
Ben Stokes’ innings stands out because:
- He scored 135 not out* under maximum pressure
- He guided England single-handedly
- He turned a certain defeat into a historic victory
- He showed what true mental strength looks like
- It revived the Ashes series for England
This innings is now taught, discussed, and celebrated as a masterpiece of Test match cricket — a moment that proved why cricket is called a game of glorious uncertainty.
3. 2019 World Cup Final – The Greatest Match Ever Played
The 2019 ICC Cricket World Cup final between England and New Zealand at Lord’s is widely regarded as one of the most dramatic and thrilling matches in cricket history. It wasn’t just a final; it was a rollercoaster of emotions that had fans on the edge of their seats until the very last ball. The match perfectly showcased cricket’s unpredictability, tension, and sheer excitement.
A Match Full of Tension from the Start
New Zealand batted first after winning the toss and set a competitive total of 241/8 in their 50 overs. While the score seemed manageable, the pitch and the conditions made batting difficult. England began their chase with confidence but soon lost early wickets, creating constant tension.
The teams fought every over fiercely. England and New Zealand took turns leading, and the scoreboard barely gave any comfort to either side. Fans could feel that the final outcome could go either way until the very end.
England’s Brave Comeback
England struggled at one point, with the match heading toward a New Zealand victory. But key partnerships, smart running between the wickets, and calm batting under pressure helped England inch closer to their target. Players like Ben Stokes and Jos Buttler showcased immense skill and determination.
Even then, with only a few balls remaining and the scores tied, it seemed the match could go either way — a true test of nerves for both teams.
The Drama of the Super Over
For the first time in a World Cup final, the match ended in a tie. The tension didn’t stop there — a Super Over was needed to determine the winner. Both teams batted again under immense pressure, scoring identical runs in the Super Over.
Now, cricket fans worldwide held their breath as the boundary count rule was used to decide the winner. England had hit more boundaries than New Zealand, making them the champions. It was a controversial but unforgettable ending.
Unforgettable Moments of the Final
Some of the moments that defined this epic final include:
- Martin Guptill’s brilliant fielding and diving saves
- Ben Stokes’ fearless batting under extreme pressure
- The calm and composed finishing touches from Jos Buttler
- The nerve-wracking Super Over that tied yet again
- The dramatic boundary count rule determining the winner
Every second of this match kept fans on edge and cemented its place as one of the greatest cricket moments ever.
Why This Match is Remembered Forever
The 2019 World Cup final is remembered because:
- It was one of the closest finishes in cricket history
- It demonstrated the unpredictable beauty of cricket
- It showcased heroism, skill, and mental toughness
- England won their first-ever ICC Cricket World Cup
- It gave cricket fans worldwide a story they will tell for generations
This match is not just a game; it’s a cricketing legend, a testament to the thrill and excitement that only this sport can deliver.
4. Sachin Tendulkar’s 100th International Century
Sachin Tendulkar’s 100th international century is one of cricket’s most iconic milestones. Achieved in March 2012 against Bangladesh in an Asia Cup match at Dhaka, this landmark was the culmination of over two decades of dedication, skill, and perseverance. For fans worldwide, this century wasn’t just about runs—it was a celebration of Tendulkar’s unmatched cricketing journey.
The Build-Up to a Historic Moment
By 2012, Tendulkar was already a legend. Having debuted in 1989, he had shattered countless records, scored 99 international centuries, and inspired millions. Yet, the elusive 100th century had become a national obsession. Every cricket fan, journalist, and commentator speculated when and where Tendulkar would achieve this historic milestone.
The pressure on Sachin was immense. Every innings carried the weight of expectation from a billion people. Yet, like always, he approached the game with calm focus and determination.
The Century That Stopped Time
Facing Bangladesh, Tendulkar displayed his trademark elegance, combining precision with aggression. Every shot—from crisp drives to delicate cuts—showcased his mastery. As he approached the century, the stadium and fans were electric with anticipation.
When the historic 100th century was finally achieved, the crowd erupted. Fans waved flags, teammates embraced him, and commentators struggled to contain their excitement. The moment was symbolic: the perfect blend of skill, perseverance, and love for the game.
Emotional Impact and Nationwide Celebration
This achievement was not just personal; it was a moment for the entire cricketing world. Across India, fans celebrated:
- Streets erupted with cheers
- Television and radio broadcasts replayed every shot
- Young cricketers saw a living legend achieve the impossible
Tendulkar himself acknowledged the support of fans, teammates, and the game that shaped his life. For many, this century represented more than runs—it was a tribute to decades of cricketing excellence.
Why This Century is Legendary
Sachin’s 100th international century remains legendary because:
- He is the first and only cricketer to reach this milestone
- It highlighted consistency over more than 20 years of cricket
- It inspired countless young cricketers globally
- It gave fans a historic moment of pride and emotion
Even today, this century is replayed, remembered, and cherished as a defining moment in cricket history—proof of why Sachin Tendulkar is called the “God of Cricket.”
5. Yuvraj Singh’s Six Sixes in an Over (2007)
Yuvraj Singh’s explosive feat of hitting six sixes in a single over during the 2007 ICC T20 World Cup remains one of cricket’s most iconic and electrifying moments. This remarkable display of power, timing, and fearlessness not only stunned the cricketing world but also showcased the thrilling possibilities of the T20 format.
Setting the Stage – The 2007 T20 World Cup
The inaugural ICC T20 World Cup in 2007 introduced fans to a fast-paced, high-energy format of cricket. India was playing against England in a group stage match, and while the game itself was competitive, no one expected history to unfold in just one over.
Yuvraj Singh, known for his aggressive batting style and fearless attitude, stepped up to face England’s pacer Stuart Broad. The world had no idea that the next six deliveries would go down in cricket history.
The Six Sixes – A Masterclass in Power Hitting
From the very first ball, Yuvraj attacked with precision and timing. Each stroke cleared the boundary with ease, demonstrating his perfect combination of strength and technique. Over the course of six consecutive balls, Yuvraj:
- Smacked towering sixes in all directions
- Manipulated the field perfectly
- Kept his composure under immense crowd pressure
By the end of the over, he had scored 36 runs—a record-breaking achievement at that time and a moment that instantly became legendary.
The Crowd and Nation Reacts
The stadium erupted after every six, with fans cheering, jumping, and celebrating the spectacle. Television viewers were glued to their screens, witnessing a cricketing marvel. Social media buzzed (even in its early days) as clips of Yuvraj’s six sixes went viral worldwide.
For India, it was a moment of national pride. Yuvraj’s fearless batting energized the team and set the tone for India’s victorious campaign in the 2007 T20 World Cup.
Why This Moment is Legendary
Yuvraj Singh’s over is remembered as one of the greatest feats in cricket history because:
- He became one of only a few cricketers to achieve six sixes in an over
- It showcased the potential and excitement of T20 cricket
- It inspired a generation of power hitters globally
- It reinforced Yuvraj Singh’s reputation as one of India’s most fearless players
This historic over is not just a cricketing record — it is a symbol of skill, courage, and pure entertainment, reminding fans why cricket is loved for its unpredictability and thrill.
6. Brathwaite’s Four Sixes to Snatch the 2016 T20 World Cup
Carlos Brathwaite’s unforgettable performance in the 2016 ICC T20 World Cup final is remembered as one of cricket’s most dramatic finishes. West Indies needed 19 runs off the final over against England, with Ben Stokes bowling. The tension was unbearable, and fans worldwide were on the edge of their seats.
Brathwaite displayed fearless power-hitting under extreme pressure. He smashed four consecutive sixes, sealing the victory and giving West Indies the trophy in a breathtaking finish. This innings wasn’t just about runs—it was about courage, timing, and seizing the moment when the stakes were highest.
The celebration that followed was explosive. Fans celebrated the West Indies’ second T20 World Cup, and Brathwaite instantly became a hero, forever etched in cricket history.
7. Pakistan’s Surprise Victory in the 1992 World Cup
The 1992 Cricket World Cup remains a defining moment in Pakistan cricket. Led by the charismatic Imran Khan, Pakistan started the tournament poorly, losing several crucial matches. Many doubted their chances.
However, Imran’s leadership and the team’s resilience turned the tide. Pakistan produced a stunning comeback, defeating England, New Zealand, and eventually winning the final against England. Their victory was historic—not just because of the underdog story, but because it showcased teamwork, belief, and strategy under immense pressure.
This World Cup win remains Pakistan’s proudest cricket achievement and a testament to perseverance and determination.
8. Lasith Malinga’s Four Wickets in Four Balls
Sri Lanka’s Lasith Malinga achieved one of cricket’s rarest and most remarkable bowling feats: taking four wickets in four consecutive balls during a 2007 ODI against South Africa. Malinga’s unique slinging action and pinpoint yorkers made him a nightmare for batsmen, but this over was extraordinary.
Each ball dismantled the batting lineup, leaving spectators in awe. The record not only highlighted Malinga’s lethal skill but also cemented his reputation as one of cricket’s greatest fast bowlers. This moment is often replayed in highlights as a showcase of precision, power, and perfect execution under pressure.
9. Jayasuriya & Kaluwitharana Revolutionize Powerplay Batting (1996)
During the 1996 Cricket World Cup, Sri Lankan openers Sanath Jayasuriya and Romesh Kaluwitharana changed the way cricket was played. Traditionally, teams batted cautiously in the first 15 overs, but Jayasuriya and Kaluwitharana unleashed aggressive hitting, scoring at an unprecedented pace.
Their fearless style allowed Sri Lanka to dominate opponents and ultimately win the 1996 World Cup. This revolutionary approach changed ODI cricket forever, influencing batting strategies, field placements, and the concept of “powerplay” cricket. Today, aggressive opening batting is a standard tactic, thanks to their innovation.
10. Brian Lara’s 400 Not Out – A Record for Eternity
Brian Lara’s 400 not out against England in 2004 remains the highest individual score in Test cricket history. Lara’s innings was a perfect blend of technique, stamina, and concentration. Batting for over 13 hours, he displayed unmatched elegance, hitting drives, cuts, and pulls with ease.
This monumental achievement not only broke records but also inspired a generation of batsmen to aim higher. Lara’s 400* is a symbol of endurance, skill, and sheer mastery over the game, securing his legacy as one of cricket’s all-time greats.
11. The Birth of T20 Cricket in 2005
The year 2005 marked the beginning of a revolution in cricket with the introduction of T20 international cricket. The format, consisting of 20 overs per side, promised fast-paced, action-packed games that could be decided in just a few hours.
T20 cricket brought a new dimension to the sport. Players had to innovate, scoring quickly while taking risks, and bowlers had to adapt with clever variations. This format paved the way for globally successful leagues like the Indian Premier League (IPL), Big Bash League (BBL), and Pakistan Super League (PSL).
The birth of T20 cricket changed the way fans consumed cricket, making it more entertaining, accessible, and explosive, while also inspiring a generation of power hitters and all-rounders.
12. India’s Historic Test Series Win in Australia (2021)
India’s 2020–21 Test series win in Australia is considered one of the bravest achievements in modern cricket. Playing without key players due to injuries and facing one of the world’s most formidable teams on home soil, India overcame all odds.
The series, including the famous Gabba victory, broke Australia’s long-standing unbeaten streak at the Brisbane stadium. Young players like Shubman Gill and Rishabh Pant rose to the occasion, while veterans like Ajinkya Rahane led the team with exemplary composure.
This historic win reinforced India’s status as a top Test-playing nation and demonstrated resilience, teamwork, and strategic brilliance at the highest level.
13. Herschelle Gibbs Hits Six Sixes in ODI Cricket
Before Yuvraj Singh’s famous 2007 feat, Herschelle Gibbs became the first player to hit six sixes in a single over in ODI cricket during the 2007 World Cup. Facing Daan van Bunge of the Netherlands, Gibbs’ flawless power-hitting created one of cricket’s most memorable moments.
Every ball cleared the boundary, showcasing precision, timing, and incredible confidence. This record highlighted the explosive potential of ODI cricket and established Gibbs as one of the most fearless batsmen of his era. Fans and commentators worldwide celebrated this historic achievement for years.
14. Ireland’s Upset Victory Over England in 2011
The 2011 Cricket World Cup witnessed one of the most stunning upsets when Ireland defeated England. Kevin O’Brien played a historic innings, scoring the fastest century in World Cup history at that time.
This victory shocked the cricketing world and proved that associate nations could challenge and defeat cricketing giants. Ireland’s team displayed courage, skill, and determination, inspiring countless smaller cricketing nations to aim for greatness on the world stage.
The match remains a testament to the unpredictability and excitement that makes cricket beloved worldwide.
15. MS Dhoni’s Lightning-Fast Stumping Moments
MS Dhoni is widely regarded as one of the fastest wicketkeepers in cricket history. Throughout his career, his lightning-fast reflexes created some of the most spectacular dismissals, leaving fans and commentators awestruck.
One iconic example came during the 2016 Asia Cup against Bangladesh, where Dhoni’s swift stumping dismissed a set batsman in a split second. His ability to anticipate, react, and execute under pressure set him apart from his peers.
Dhoni’s stumpings were not only match-changing but also became signature moments that demonstrated his skill, calmness, and cricketing intelligence.
16. Virat Kohli’s “Chase Master” Phase
Virat Kohli earned the nickname “Chase Master” for his incredible ability to guide India to victory in high-pressure run chases. His consistent performances in ODIs and T20Is against top teams demonstrated his exceptional temperament, fitness, and cricketing intelligence.
Kohli’s batting during chases is characterized by flawless technique, impeccable timing, and strategic shot selection. Matches against Sri Lanka, Pakistan, and Australia highlighted his ability to perform under pressure, often leading India from seemingly impossible situations to thrilling victories.
This phase of Kohli’s career not only established him as a modern-day legend but also inspired a generation of batsmen to chase targets with courage and precision.
17. Shane Warne’s “Ball of the Century”
In 1993, Australian leg-spinner Shane Warne bowled what is now famously known as the “Ball of the Century” to dismiss England’s Mike Gatting. The delivery pitched outside leg stump and spun sharply to hit the off stump, leaving Gatting and spectators stunned.
This single delivery changed the way cricket viewed leg-spin bowling. Warne’s skill, control, and creativity became legendary, inspiring countless young spinners worldwide. The ball is celebrated not just as a record-breaking moment but as a symbol of artistry and mastery in cricket.
18. South Africa’s 438 Run Chase Against Australia (2006)
One of the greatest ODIs ever played took place in 2006, when South Africa chased an unprecedented 434 runs set by Australia. At that time, no team had successfully chased more than 400 runs in a 50-over match.
South Africa’s batting was aggressive, calculated, and fearless. Herschelle Gibbs, Graeme Smith, and AB de Villiers played crucial innings, turning a seemingly impossible chase into reality. The match was a rollercoaster of emotions for players and fans alike, setting new standards for ODI cricket and proving that no total is truly unchaseable.
19. Bangladesh’s Dramatic Rise in International Cricket
Bangladesh’s rise in international cricket is a story of determination, growth, and resilience. Once considered minnows, Bangladesh began recording stunning victories against top cricketing nations, including India, England, and Australia.
Matches like the 2015 World Cup win against England and consistent performances in ICC tournaments demonstrated the team’s evolution. Players like Shakib Al Hasan, Mushfiqur Rahim, and Tamim Iqbal became household names, inspiring a generation of young cricketers in Bangladesh. Their journey proves that passion and hard work can elevate teams to compete at the highest level.
20. Kumar Sangakkara’s Four Consecutive World Cup Centuries
During the 2015 ICC Cricket World Cup, Sri Lanka’s Kumar Sangakkara achieved a record-breaking feat by scoring four consecutive centuries. This unmatched streak highlighted Sangakkara’s technical brilliance, consistency, and mental strength in ODI cricket.
His elegant stroke play, smart shot selection, and ability to dominate top-class bowling attacks amazed fans worldwide. Sangakkara’s record remains a benchmark for excellence, showcasing what sustained performance at the highest level truly looks like.
This achievement cemented his status as one of the greatest batsmen in cricket history.
Conclusion: The Legacy of Cricket’s Greatest Moments
These Top 20 cricket best moments represent the heart of the game — thrilling, emotional, and timeless. Whether you are a longtime fan or someone new to the sport, these events remind us why The field continues to inspire millions around the world.
Cricket is not just bat and ball.
It is passion, heartbreak, hope, and unforgettable memories.