As we enter the 21st century, cricket fans have been treated to an eye-catching series of matches that captivated audiences worldwide. This article presents the 10 most exciting cricket matches of the 21st century that have left an indelible mark on the sport.

1. The Ashes, Edgbaston 2005: England vs. Australia

The 2005 series of Ashes between the UK and Australia is a spectacle that will forever go down in the annals of ticketing history. The closely contested showdown at Edgbaston is one of the series’ most intense encounters. As England pursued a formidable goal of 282, the match culminated in the all-powerful Andrew Flintoff displaying his genius, sending England to a two-point lead. The intensity and drama displayed in this match cemented its status as a modern-day classic. 

2. India v Pakistan, 2007 T20 World Cup: Group Stage Clash

Cricket’s biggest rival, India v Pakistan, took center stage at the inaugural T20 World Cup 2007. The group stage match between the two cricketing powerhouses was a roller coaster ride. The match saw fluctuating fortunes as the two teams battled for supremacy until the last minute. Misbah-ul-Haq’s brave effort for Pakistan was thwarted by a brilliant save by S. Sreesanth, which gave India five points. The clash is a testament to the excitement and raw emotions that define cricket’s fiercest encounters. 

3. South Africa vs. Australia, Johannesburg 2006: Greatest ODI of all time

Johannesburg hosted one of the most engaging One Day International Days (ODIs) ever. The match between South Africa and Australia in 2006 showed the true spirit of cricket. With a pursuit target 434, South Africa embarked on a daring chase. Proteas, led by Herschelle Gibbs’ incredible 175, did the impossible, winning with just one reserve ball. This match redefined the limits of what can be achieved in superior cricket, leaving fans in awe at the sheer excellence on display.

4. England v New Zealand, ICC World Cup 2019: Super Horror

The 2019 ICC World Cup Final between England and New Zealand will forever be remembered as one of the most dramatic matches in cricket history. With a draw after 50 rounds and the next super match, the match goes to the boundary counting rule. In an unprecedented turn of events, England won by the narrowest margin, claiming their first World Cup title. This thrilling encounter highlighted the ruthless nature of the game and kept fans trying their best until the last ball.

5. Australia vs. South Africa, Sydney 2006: Game 438 

A high-scoring encounter at the Sydney Cricket Stadium in 2006 stunned spectators and challenged traditional ticketing standards. In the clash between Australia and South Africa, the teams amassed a staggering 872 combined runs, with Australia aiming for a whopping 434. South Africa, led by 175 heroes of Herschelle Gibbs, has done the unthinkable and achieved its goal, achieving the most successful pursuit in ODI history. This match is a testament to the unpredictability and excitement that cricket brings.

6. West Indies v England, ICC World T20 2016: Brathwaite Flash

The 2016 ICC World T20 final between the West Indies and England produced an exhilarating finale that will forever be etched in ticketing folklore. Chasing the tough target of 156, the West Indies find themselves in a precarious position, needing 19 points at the end. Carlos Brathwaite showed steel, breaking four six-point bowling balls in a row from Ben Stokes to give the West Indies a substantial win. This sensational display of power in a high-pressure situation helped the West Indies win a second T20 world title and wowed fans with Brathwaite’s heroism.

7. India vs. Australia, Kolkata 2001: The Garden of Eden Epic Experiment

The India v Australia trial at Eden Gardens in 2001 will forever be remembered as one of the greatest comebacks in cricket history. After being forced to comply, India was in a difficult position. However, VVS Laxman’s epic 281, aided by Rahul Dravid’s intrepid 180, saw India set lofty goals for Australia. The Indian pitchers, led by the brilliant swing pitcher Harbhajan Singh, won by a margin, demonstrating the resilience and determination of the Indian team. 

8. England v Australia, Headingley 2019: Miracle of Ben Stokes

The third Ashes test at Headingley in 2019 produced one of ticketing history’s most impressive individual performances. As England chased 359 wins, Ben Stokes played a sublime inning, single-handedly leading his team to a miraculous victory. Stokes’ 135-match unbeaten streak, filled with eye-popping shots and moments of pure brilliance, has defied all odds and made its name into ticketing folklore. This match embodies the spirit of cricket that never dies and shows the power of determination.

9. Pakistan vs. India, Chennai 1999: Sachin Tendulkar’s Advanced Class

The 1999 test match between Pakistan and India in Chennai saw a showdown by one of cricket’s greatest legends, Sachin Tendulkar. Chasing Pakistan’s tough total, Tendulkar showed off his superhuman skills, scoring 136 in the fourth set. Despite their heroic efforts, India only missed 12 races. However, Tendulkar’s stunt remains etched in the memory of cricket fans as a testament to his unparalleled skill and determination. 

10. Sri Lanka v Australia, Colombo 2016: Heroes of Herath

Rangana Herath, one of Sri Lanka’s top spinners, enchanted the cricket world with his stellar performance against Australia in 2016. Playing in their split, Herath weaved a web around the Australians, winning a staggering 7 hit shots in just 64 runs in the second inning. His remarkable spells catapulted Sri Lanka to a resounding victory and showcased the influence of an avid spinner in the game of cricket.

Conclusion

In summary, the 10 most exciting cricket matches of the 21st century have shown the true nature of the sport. These matches are defined by high stakes, incredible performances and eye-catching finishes. From historic Ashes battles to thrilling World Cup encounters, these matches have left an indelible mark on the ticketing scene. As fans, we can only hope that the future will be filled with exciting moments that will continue to make cricket a beautiful game.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1:- Which match holds the record for the most successful chase in ODI?

The match between South Africa and Australia in Johannesburg in 2006 was the most successful chase in the ODIs. South Africa has achieved target 434, achieving the seemingly impossible.

2. Who played the hero in the 2019 ICC World Cup Final between England and New Zealand?

Ben Stokes played a key role in the 2019 ICC World Cup final between England and New Zealand. His stellar performances and polished heroic spirit helped England win the World Cup for the first time.

3. What is important about the 2001 Indian versus Australia Test match at Eden Gardens?

The 2001 Eden Gardens test match between India and Australia is remembered for India’s remarkable comeback after being forced to call. The match saw the historic partnership of VVS Laxman and Rahul Dravid that led India to an unbelievable victory.

4. Which cricket match saw Carlos Brathwaite’s four-sixth consecutive flash?

The 2016 ICC World T20 Final between the West Indies and England saw Carlos Brathwaite’s amazing lightning strike with four consecutive sixes in the final. His heroism led the West Indies to victory and claimed their second T20 world title. 

5. Who had a stellar bowling performance in their farewell test match 2016?

Rangana Herath, the legendary Sri Lankan pitcher, put in an excellent bowling performance in his farewell match against Australia in 2016. He won seven shuttlecocks in just 64 runs, putting Sri Lanka to a memorable victory.