The T20 World Cup has always been a thrilling event for cricket fans, where the game can change in just a few overs. While bowlers play a crucial role in shaping the outcomes, it’s often the batters who create the most unforgettable moments, especially when they score rapid centuries. A hundred in T20 cricket is always special, but doing it in the World Cup makes it even more memorable. Let’s explore some of the fastest centuries in T20 World Cup history.
5. Ahmed Shehzad- 58 Balls (2014)
Pakistan’s Ahmed Shehzad made headlines during the T20 World Cup 2014 when he scored a century against Bangladesh in just 58 balls on 30th March 2014. Shehzad’s century was significant as it helped Pakistan secure a crucial victory in the tournament. He played with great determination and skill, mixing powerful shots with smart running between the wickets. His knock against Bangladesh remains one of the fastest centuries in T20 World Cup history and is still celebrated by Pakistani fans.
4. Rilee Rossouw- 52 Balls (2022)
Rilee Rossouw made a name for himself in the T20 World Cup 2022 with a quick hundred against Bangladesh. He reached his century in 52 balls on 27th October 2022. Rossouw’s innings was filled with powerful shots, showcasing his ability to find gaps and clear the boundaries effortlessly. His century helped South Africa post a competitive total and put pressure on Bangladesh. This knock highlighted Rossouw’s talent and solidified his reputation as a dangerous batter in T20 cricket. It also became a key moment for South Africa in the tournament.
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3. Brendon McCullum- 51 Balls (2012)
New Zealand’s Brendon McCullum is another player who left his mark in the T20 World Cup with a fast century. On 21st September 2012, during a match against Bangladesh, McCullum scored a century in just 51 balls. Known for his aggressive style, McCullum attacked the Bangladeshi bowlers right from the start. His innings not only helped New Zealand post a huge total but also inspired many young players to adopt a fearless approach in T20 cricket. His century remains one of the fastest in T20 World Cup history and is a perfect example of how a player can dominate the game.
2. Chris Gayle- 50 Balls (2007)
Before his 2016 heroics, Chris Gayle made history with another rapid century in the first-ever T20 World Cup in 2007. This time, he reached the hundred in just 50 balls against South Africa on 11th September 2007. The match was a high-scoring affair, and Gayle’s power-hitting helped the West Indies set a challenging target. Despite his efforts, South Africa managed to win the match, but Gayle’s explosive knock left a lasting impact. This innings is still remembered as one of the defining moments in the history of T20 cricket.
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1. Chris Gayle- 47 Balls (2016)
Chris Gayle, known as the “Universe Boss,” holds the record for the fastest century in T20 World Cup history. He achieved this feat in just 47 balls against England on 16th March 2016. This match was part of the T20 World Cup held in India, and Gayle’s aggressive batting style stunned the English bowlers. He smashed the ball all around the park, hitting multiple sixes and boundaries. His century not only helped the West Indies to chase down a competitive target but also sent a message to all the teams about his intent and power in the tournament.
Table of Fastest Centuries in the T20 World Cup History:
Player | Balls | Match | Date |
---|---|---|---|
Chris Gayle | 47 | West Indies vs England | 16/03/2016 |
Chris Gayle | 50 | West Indies vs South Africa | 11/09/2007 |
Brendon McCullum | 51 | New Zealand vs Bangladesh | 21/09/2012 |
Rilee Rossouw | 52 | South Africa vs Bangladesh | 27/10/2022 |
Ahmed Shehzad | 58 | Pakistan vs Bangladesh | 30/03/2014 |