Legends Who Delivered Career-Shutting Wickets on the Last Ball

Cricket is a sport filled with memorable moments and iconic performances, particularly when a bowler takes the final wicket of their career on the last ball. These moments are celebrated not only by the players but by enthusiasts around the world. Here, we explore the careers of several legendary bowlers who achieved this memorable feat.

Classic Cases of Career-Shutting Wickets on the Last Ball

Wasim Akram - Pakistan

One of the greatest fast bowlers of the 1990s, Wasim Akram took his final international wicket in a Test match against Bangladesh in 2002. His performance was a fitting end to a career marked by thunderous pace and giant-killing spells. This match was not only a farewell to a legend but also a celebration of his talents.

Wasim's Last Ball Wicket (2002)

Wasim Akram's last international wicket came during a Test match against Bangladesh in 2002. This wicket symbolized the end of an era and cemented his legacy in the hearts of cricket fans worldwide.

Muttiah Muralitharan - Sri Lanka

Muttiah Muralitharan, often hailed as one of the greatest spinners of all time, claimed his final Test wicket against India in 2010. With his off-breaks and turn, Muralitharan brought an end to his illustrious career in the most fitting way, taking the last wicket of a match.

Murali's Last Ball Moment (2010)

Muralitharan's final wicket came in a Test match against India at Galle. He completed his impressive 800 Test wickets tally, bringing his career to a fitting close with his characteristic spin.

Curtly Ambrose - West Indies

A Caribbean fast bowler of great repute, Curtly Ambrose ended his Test career on a high note with his final delivery against England in 2000. This match was not just a testament to his skills but also a grand finale to a fighting innings.

Ambrose's Last Ball Performance (2000)

Curtly Ambrose's final Test match came in a series against England, where he not only wrapped up the game with the last ball but also played his part in the match-winning innings.

Dale Steyn - South Africa

A recent example of a career-shutting wicket came with Dale Steyn's last ball in a Test match against Australia in January 2021. Steyn, a current icon in South African cricket, concluded his Test career on a high note.

Steyn's Final Wicket (2021)

Dale Steyn took the final wicket of his Test career against Australia in a thrilling finish. This match demonstrated Steyn's consistency and poise under pressure, ending his career on a high.

Shane Warne - Australia

Shane Warne, the king of spin, played his last ball in a Test match against England in the 2007 Ashes series. His final delivery brought an end to a career that was defined by masterful spin and a unique talent.

Warne's Last Ball (2007)

Warne's final wicket came during the 2007 Ashes series, where he contributed to his team's victory. This match was a fitting end to one of cricket's most iconic spinners.

Unique Instances of Career-Shutting Wickets

Cricket has seen some unique instances where career-ending wickets were delivered in extraordinary ways. Here are a few such memorable moments:

Adam Gilchrist - Australia

In an intriguing twist of fate, Adam Gilchrist, a formidable wicket-keeper batsman, bowled his final ball in his IPL career for Kings XI Punjab during the 2011 season. He wicketed Harbhajan Singh on his first and only delivery, securing a victory for his team in an unexpectedly dramatic fashion.

Unique Gilchrist Wicket (2011)

This match stands out as a testament to the unpredictability of cricket. Adam Gilchrist, a master batsman and wicket-keeper, secured the last ball wicket, illustrating the versatility and skills of a renowned player.

Ross Taylor - New Zealand

Ross Taylor, a Kiwi batsman, wrapped up a Test match in unique fashion in 2012. When Bangladesh followed on close to the total, and with the Black Caps needing to bowl, Ross Taylor was given one over. He successfully bowled nine innovations without conceding a run, ensuring a decisive victory for his side.

Taylor's Unconventional Wicket (2012)

While Ross Taylor is not primarily known as a bowler, this instance showcased his ability to adapt to different roles. Delivering a perfect over without conceding a run, Ross concluded his match in a particularly commendable and unexpected manner.

Unique Cricket Moments

These moments highlight the unpredictable and fascinating nature of the sport. Wickets can be taken under the most unusual circumstances, and such instances serve as a reminder of the rich history and drama that cricket continues to offer.