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The first game of the Asian Games Men’s T20 2023 between Nepal and Mongolia took the cricketing world by storm as many of the T20I records were broken with new measures being established.
While the Nepali team broke the record of the highest-ever total in T20Is (314), batter Kushal Malla also shattered the long-established joint record of Rohit Sharma and David Miller for the fastest hundred in T20Is (35 balls).
Let’s delve into the history of the shortest format of international cricket and explore the top 7 fastest centuries ever recorded.
Kushal Malla (Nepal) – 34 balls vs Mongolia, 2023:
Nepal’s prodigious talent, Kushal Malla, made headlines with his blistering century against Mongolia. Malla’s breathtaking knock propelled Nepal to a staggering total, and he broke the record for the fastest century in T20 Internationals. The left-handed batter completed his century in 34 balls and remained unbeaten on 137 after facing 50 balls. His innings featured explosive strokes, including 12 towering sixes, which amazed fans and experts.
David Miller (South Africa) – 35 balls vs Bangladesh, 2017:
David Miller, a renowned T20 powerhouse, produced one of the most devastating centuries in T20I history, reaching the milestone in just 35 balls against Bangladesh in 2017. Miller’s innings was a power-hitting masterclass, featuring an array of perfectly timed boundaries and massive sixes. His reputation as a finisher and ability to accelerate the run rate under pressure was displayed during this incredible knock, solidifying his status as one of South Africa’s finest limited-overs batters.
Rohit Sharma (India) – 35 balls vs Sri Lanka, 2017:
Rohit Sharma, the ‘Hitman‘ in Indian cricket, demonstrated his class and elegance by scoring a century in a mere 35 balls in the second ODI of the Sri Lanka Tour of India 2017. The right-handed batter’s innings was a testament to his exceptional timing and impeccable technique. His ability to pick gaps and effortlessly clear the boundary rope showcased the finesse that sets him apart as one of India’s cricketing stalwarts. This century not only thrilled fans but also underlined his reputation as one of the most prolific T20I batters in the world.
Also READ: Asian Games 2023 – Nepal’s Dipendra Singh Airee breaks Yuvraj Singh’s record of fastest 50 in T20 Internationals
Sudesh Wickramasekara (Czech Republic) – 35 balls vs Turkey, 2019:
S Wickramasekara of the Czech Republic achieved a century in just 35 balls against Turkey in the Continental Cup 2019. The 41-year-old’s innings symbolized cricket’s global reach, with an emerging European nation producing a sensational performance internationally. His aggressive style of play and precise shot selection impressed cricket enthusiasts and sent a message to Associate nations’ growing competitiveness in the T20 format.
Sivakumar Periyalwar (Romania) – 39 balls vs Turkey, 2019:
S. Periyalwar, representing Romania, left an indelible mark on the T20I stage by scoring a century in 39 balls in the Continental Cup 2019 against Turkey. This innings was a testament to the perseverance and dedication of cricketers from non-traditional cricketing nations. The 25-year-old’s ability to adapt to different conditions and opposition showcased the potential for growth in European cricket. His achievement made Romania proud and inspired aspiring cricketers in emerging cricketing nations.
Zeeshan Kukikhel (Hungary) – 39 balls vs Austria, 2022
Zeeshan Kukikhel‘s explosive century in 39 balls against Austria exemplified the rising talent from unexpected corners of the cricketing world. His fearless approach and aggressive shot selection left an indelible mark on the game. Kukikhel’s innings served as a beacon of hope for cricket in Hungary and highlighted the immense potential for emerging nations to make a mark on the international stage.
Johnson Charles (West Indies) – 39 balls vs South Africa, 2023
Johnson Charles, renowned for his explosive style, blazed his way to a century in just 39 balls against South Africa in March. Charles’ knock of 118 in just 46 balls encapsulated the Caribbean flair for entertaining cricket, featuring audacious strokes and breathtaking boundaries. His ability to dominate top-class bowlers emphasized the West Indies’ rich T20 legacy, where power-hitting and fearless cricket are celebrated as an art form.
