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Stumpings are one of the most interesting ways to dismiss a batter in cricket. It requires incredible precision, lightning-quick reflexes, and a sharp understanding of the game.
The fastest stumping in cricket highlights the wicketkeeper’s skills and ability to read the batter’s movements and react instantly. While there have been many iconic stumpings in cricket history, MS Dhoni stands out for his unmatched speed and remarkable consistency.
Top Five Fastest Stumpings in Cricket
1. MS Dhoni vs Keemo Paul (2018)
MS Dhoni’s stumping of Keemo Paul during a bilateral ODI series between India and West Indies in 2018 is officially the fastest stumping in cricket history. With an incredible time of just 0.08 seconds, this dismissal remains unbeaten.
The Match Context
In the fourth ODI, West Indies struggled to chase a massive target of 377. On the second last ball of the 28th over, Ravindra Jadeja bowled a sharp delivery that spun away from Keemo Paul. The batter jumped forward to defend but missed the ball entirely.
The Stumping Moment
Standing behind the stumps, Dhoni wasted no time removing the bails. His quick reflexes ensured Paul had no chance to recover, leaving fans and experts in awe.
The precision and speed of this dismissal remain unparalleled and reflect Dhoni’s extraordinary skills as a wicketkeeper.
This moment secured Dhoni’s legacy and reinforced his reputation as the fastest and most reliable wicketkeeper in cricket history.
2 MS Dhoni vs Mitchell Marsh (2012)
Even before his iconic stumping of Keemo Paul, Dhoni set the benchmark for speed when he dismissed Australian all-rounder Mitchell Marsh in a T20I series in 2012. This stumping, completed in 0.09 seconds, held the record for the fastest stumping until 2018.
The Scenario
India was touring Australia, and in the second T20I of the series, Marsh attempted to step out of his crease while facing Rahul Sharma. The ball spun sharply, beating Marsh’s bat and landing directly into Dhoni’s gloves.
The Execution
Dhoni, showing incredible anticipation, took the bails off in less than a blink of an eye. Marsh, momentarily outside the crease, couldn’t react in time. It was the fastest stumping in cricket at that moment, showcasing Dhoni’s extraordinary focus and unparalleled reflexes.
This dismissal underlined why Dhoni was regarded as the sharpest wicketkeeper of his era. He had an unusual ability to execute stumpings that seemed impossible.
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3. Ben Cox vs Callum MacLeod (2018)
Worcestershire’s wicketkeeper Ben Cox stunned cricket fans with his stumping of Callum MacLeod during the T20 Blast in 2018. While not as swift as Dhoni’s record, the dismissal combined quick thinking and a bit of luck.
The Dismissal Context
Ed Barnard bowled a good-length delivery angled towards MacLeod, who tried to dab the ball towards third man. The ball, however, struck Cox’s pads before deflecting back towards the stumps.
The Stumping Moment
As MacLeod attempted a quick single, Cox instinctively knocked the bails off while the batter was outside the crease. Though unconventional, the quickness of the reaction made this dismissal memorable and secured its place among the fastest stumpings in cricket.
This moment highlighted the importance of staying alert and seizing opportunities, even when the dismissal appears to involve some luck.
4. MS Dhoni vs Shubman Gill (2023)
MS Dhoni continued to amaze cricket fans with his stumping of Shubman Gill during the IPL 2023 final between Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and Gujarat Titans. At the age of 41, Dhoni proved he still had reflexes as sharp as ever, executing this stumping in just 0.1 seconds.
The Situation
Shubman Gill was in incredible form and had already achieved three centuries in IPL 2023 and was a key threat for CSK. In the first over after the powerplay, Jadeja bowled a delivery that caused Gill to momentarily lose balance while stepping out.
The Match-Turning Stumping
Dhoni capitalised instantly, taking the bails off even as Gill tried to drag his foot back. The dismissal was critical, as Gill’s wicket shifted momentum in CSK’s favour. Dhoni’s brilliance behind the stumps once again underscored why he is regarded as the best wicketkeeper in the world.
CSK went on to win the IPL 2023 final, and this stumping was one of the match’s standout moments.
5. Brendon McCullum vs Ricky Ponting (2011)
The final entry on this list is Brendon McCullum’s dismissal of Australian great Ricky Ponting during the 2011 ICC Cricket World Cup. While not the fastest in terms of time, this stumping showcased McCullum’s strategic brilliance and quick reflexes.
The Match Dynamics
Ponting struggled to read Tim Southee’s inswingers in a high-stakes match between New Zealand and Australia. Sensing an opportunity, McCullum moved closer to the stumps, and Southee adjusted his line to exploit Ponting’s discomfort.
The Moment of Brilliance
When Ponting stepped out to counter a leg-side delivery, he missed the ball, leaving McCullum with an opening. The wicketkeeper acted instantly, removing the bails before Ponting could recover. The dismissal stopped Australia’s momentum and highlighted McCullum’s ability to anticipate and execute under pressure.
This stumping further solidified McCullum’s reputation as one of the finest wicketkeepers of his generation.
Also Read: Complete List of 5-Wicket Hauls in IPL History
MS Dhoni: The King of Stumpings
MS Dhoni’s dominance in wicketkeeping, appearing three times on this list, particularly stumpings, is undeniable. His exceptional hand-eye coordination, match awareness, and ability to perform under pressure make him unparalleled in this skill.
Whether it’s international cricket or the IPL, Dhoni’s stumpings are a masterclass in wicketkeeping and have set a benchmark for others to aspire to.
The fastest stumping in cricket, completed in just 0.08 seconds, will forever stand as a testament to Dhoni’s greatness, cementing his place as one of cricket’s all-time legends.
Conclusion
The fastest stumping in cricket history showcases wicketkeepers’ incredible reflexes and skill, with MS Dhoni setting an unbeatable benchmark.
His lightning-quick stumpings reflect the unmatched brilliance that defines cricketing legends. Exploring such moments highlights the sport’s thrilling side and inspires admiration for the players who redefine excellence.
FAQs
Former Indian captain MS Dhoni holds the record for completing the fastest stumping in cricket history.
MS Dhoni executed his fastest stumping during a 2018 ODI against West Indies, dismissing Keemo Paul in just 0.08 seconds.
Modern-era greats include MS Dhoni, Adam Gilchrist, Brendon McCullum, Kumar Sangakkara, and Mark Boucher, known for their exceptional skills behind the stumps.
MS Dhoni has achieved 123 stumpings across 350 international matches during his illustrious cricket career.
A great wicketkeeper needs sharp reflexes, excellent game awareness, reliable hands, and the ability to effectively anticipate the batter’s moves.
While other keepers have performed quick stumpings, none have matched Dhoni’s incredible 0.08-second dismissal time.
Mark Boucher of South Africa holds the record for the most dismissals in international cricket.
MS Dhoni leads the IPL with several lightning-fast stumpings, including his 0.1-second dismissal of Shubman Gill in the 2023 final.
Consistent practice, enhanced reflex training, and studying batter patterns are key for wicketkeepers to sharpen their stumping skills and reaction times.
