Many legends of cricket have bowed out just before achieving the monumental landmarks – those milestones which seemed within reach but slipped away due to timing, injury or sudden retirement. From MS Dhoni’s 98 T20I appearances to Mark Boucher’s 998 dismissals and James Anderson’s 991 wickets, here are the stories of those who nearly struck gold yet fell just short.
1. MS Dhoni (India):
MS Dhoni retired from international cricket in 2020, ending with 98 T20I appearances, narrowly missing the 100-match milestone. Known for his calm leadership and finishing ability, Dhoni’s unpredictable retirement announcement surprised fans worldwide. Despite falling short of this landmark, his legacy as India’s greatest white-ball captain remains unquestioned.
2. Mark Boucher (South Africa):
Mark Boucher, widely regarded as one of the finest wicketkeepers of cricket, was forced into retirement in 2012 after a career-ending eye injury. He finished with 998 international dismissals, just two short of the iconic 1,000 mark. His unmatched skills behind the stumps made him a South African cricket legend forever remembered.
3. James Anderson (England):
James Anderson, England’s greatest fast bowler, retired in 2024 with 991 international wickets across formats. Just nine short of 1,000, he ended his two-decade career as the most prolific pacer of Test cricket. Renowned for his swing and longevity, James Anderson’s near-miss underlines the fine margins that define sporting milestones and legacies.
4. Don Bradman (Australia):
Don Bradman, the greatest batsman in cricket history, finished his career with a batting average of 99.94 — just short of the magical 100. Dismissed for a duck in his final Test innings at The Oval in 1948, “The Don” missed perfection by four runs, adding mystique to his legendary aura.
5. Tom Hayward (England):
Tom Hayward, one of the finest early batsmen of England, ended his Test career with 1,999 runs, just a single run away from 2,000. Playing between 1896 and 1909, he was renowned for his classical technique and prolific county career with Surrey but the landmark eluded him by the narrowest possible margin.
6. Arthur Mailey (Australia)
Arthur Mailey, Australia’s leg-spinner of the 1920s, finished his Test career with 99 wickets, one shy of the coveted century mark. Known for his flight and guile, Arthur Mailey’s artistry brought him memorable spells, including a 9-for at Headingley. Yet, he retired without entering the exclusive “100 Test wickets” club.
7. David Boon (Australia)
David Boon, the gritty Australian opener, was celebrated for his courage and consistency. Across 107 Tests, he took 99 catches, missing the milestone 100 by just one. Famous for his moustache, determination and match-winning knocks, David Boon’s close brush with the landmark remains a small footnote in an illustrious career.
Well, it was their destiny, what do you say?
