Cricket is a game of fine margins; a dropped catch, a no-ball, or a poor decision can cost teams millions, break hearts, or rewrite history. Over the years, there have been moments where a single error has had monumental consequences. These aren’t just slip-ups; they’re the costliest mistakes in the sport’s history financially, emotionally, or historically. Here are seven of the most expensive mistakes in cricket, with each point detailing the event and its massive impact.
Herschelle Gibbs Drops Steve Waugh – 1999 World Cup:
During a crucial Super Six match between South Africa and Australia, Herschelle Gibbs famously dropped Steve Waugh after attempting to celebrate the catch too early. The ball popped out of his hands, and Waugh went on to score a match-winning 120*. The mistake didn’t just cost them the match — it set the stage for Australia’s momentum. The Aussies went on to win the World Cup. Gibbs’ drop is remembered as one of the most infamous moments in World Cup history and reportedly led to the iconic (though disputed) quote from Waugh: “You’ve just dropped the World Cup.”
MS Dhoni’s Run-Out – 2019 World Cup Semi-Final:
In the 2019 World Cup semi-final against New Zealand, MS Dhoni attempted a second run to retain strike in a tight chase but was brilliantly run out by Martin Guptill’s direct hit. India, heavily favored to win, lost by 18 runs. Dhoni’s dismissal shattered Indian hopes and ended his World Cup career. The emotional and financial fallout was massive — India’s early exit reportedly cost sponsors and broadcasters millions in lost viewership and revenue. This one mistake, in the blink of an eye, derailed a nation’s dream and changed the trajectory of Indian cricket for years.
Ben Stokes’ Overthrows – 2019 World Cup Final:
In one of the most dramatic World Cup finals ever, a deflection off Ben Stokes’ bat during a dive for a second run led to four overthrows, giving England six crucial runs against New Zealand. The incident came in the final over and ultimately led to a tied match and then a tied Super Over. England won on boundary count. While not Stokes’ fault entirely, it was a freak moment that drew criticism, debate, and heartbreak for New Zealand. That single deflection arguably decided the world champion a mistake with world-title-level consequences.
Kusal Perera’s Brain Fade – 2022 Asia Cup Final:
In the 2022 Asia Cup final, Sri Lanka were reeling at 62/5 when Kusal Perera, known for his aggressive style, attempted an ill-advised shot and was caught. His dismissal, while in poor form, came at a time when Sri Lanka desperately needed to consolidate. Thankfully, Sri Lanka managed a comeback through Rajapaksa and Hasaranga, but had they lost, Perera’s shot selection could have gone down as the mistake that cost them the trophy. In high-pressure finals, every decision counts — and Perera’s moment nearly flipped the match in Pakistan’s favor.
Stuart Broad Not Walking – 2013 Ashes, Trent Bridge:
In the 2013 Ashes, Stuart Broad edged a clear catch to slip off Ashton Agar but didn’t walk, and the umpire didn’t give him out. Broad went on to add crucial runs, helping England win a tight match. Australia were furious, and the moment became symbolic of poor sportsmanship and umpiring controversy. While technically not a “mistake” by Broad, it was an error in officiating that had a direct impact on the outcome of the series England retained the Ashes, and the incident reignited debates around the Spirit of Cricket and DRS.
Lasith Malinga’s No-Ball – 2012 CB Series:
In the 2012 CB Series, Sri Lanka had Australia on the brink of defeat. With 1 ball and 1 wicket left, Malinga bowled what seemed to be a match-winning delivery — only for it to be called a no-ball due to overstepping. Australia survived and went on to win the match. The no-ball cost Sri Lanka the game and a potential spot in the final. For a bowler of Malinga’s calibre, it was a shocking error, made worse by the situation’s pressure. This moment serves as a painful reminder of how one foot can cost an entire game.
India’s Team Selection – 2007 World Cup:
In the 2007 ICC World Cup, India shockingly exited in the group stage after losing to Bangladesh. One of the major criticisms was the team selection — including an over-reliance on out-of-form players and an underestimation of Bangladesh’s rising talent. The decision to leave out key youngsters and persist with senior players led to tactical stagnation. India’s early exit not only devastated fans but also caused financial losses exceeding $100 million in advertising, endorsements, and sponsorships. It forced Indian cricket into a major reset leading to the emergence of MS Dhoni’s new-era leadership in 2008.