Former Australia captain Aaron Finch has shared his list of the top five Australian cricketers in IPL history. His selections have created discussion among fans, especially because some big names were left out.
Australian players have always played a big role in the Indian Premier League. From the early seasons to IPL 2026, they have contributed with both bat and ball and helped teams win titles.
Finch’s Top 5 Australian Players in IPL
Here is the list of players selected by Finch:
| Player | Role | Key Strength |
|---|---|---|
| Michael Hussey | Batter | Consistency |
| Shane Watson | All-rounder | Match-winning performances |
| David Warner | Batter | Aggressive batting |
| Josh Hazlewood | Bowler | Accuracy and pace |
| Mitchell Johnson | Bowler | Wicket-taking ability |
This list includes a mix of batters, all-rounders, and fast bowlers who have made a strong impact in the league.
Michael Hussey – Reliable Run Machine
Michael Hussey is one of the most consistent players in IPL history.
He played for teams like Chennai Super Kings and Mumbai Indians. One of his best seasons came when he scored 733 runs for CSK, which was one of the highest totals at that time.
His ability to score runs regularly made him a key player in the league.
Shane Watson – Big Match Performer
Shane Watson had a long and successful IPL career.
He delivered match-winning performances in important games and played a key role in title wins. His all-round skills made him one of the most valuable players in IPL history.
David Warner – Dominant IPL Batter
David Warner has been one of the most successful overseas batters in the IPL.
He has scored runs consistently across multiple seasons and led his teams from the front. His aggressive batting style has helped him dominate many matches.
Also See : Mumbai Indians Add Young All-Rounder Krish Bhagat Before PBKS Clash – IPL 2026 Update
Josh Hazlewood – Modern Bowling Strength
Josh Hazlewood represents the modern generation of IPL bowlers.
He has impressed with his pace, accuracy, and ability to control runs in key phases of the game. His performances in recent seasons have made him an important player in IPL bowling attacks.
Mitchell Johnson – Fearsome Fast Bowler
Mitchell Johnson was known for his aggressive pace and wicket-taking ability.
He played a key role for Mumbai Indians and formed a strong bowling partnership with top players. His impact with the ball made him one of the most dangerous bowlers in IPL history.
Big Names Missing from the List
Finch’s list has also surprised fans because some big Australian players were not included.
| Player | Status |
|---|---|
| Mitchell Starc | Not selected |
| Glenn Maxwell | Not selected |
| Steve Smith | Not selected |
| Adam Gilchrist | Not selected |
| Shane Warne | Not selected |
These players have also made strong contributions in the IPL, but Finch chose a different combination based on his own view.
Why This List Matters
Finch’s picks show how Australian players have shaped the IPL over the years.
His list focuses on:
- Consistent performers
- Match winners
- Players with long-term impact
It also highlights how different fans and experts can have different opinions when ranking players.
Final Thoughts
Aaron Finch’s top five list brings together some of the most impactful Australian players in IPL history. While some big names are missing, his choices reflect players who delivered consistently and influenced matches over many seasons.
The debate around this list will continue, but it clearly shows the strong legacy of Australian cricketers in the IPL.



