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Quick centuries have always been a spectacle in One Day International cricket, a thrilling display of aggression and power that can single-handedly alter the course of a match. For a team like Australia, renowned for its explosive batting lineup, these milestones are a testament to their dominance and fearless approach. The ability to score at a breathtaking pace not only demoralizes the opposition but also provides a crucial advantage in high-stakes encounters, as was recently witnessed in the third ODI against South Africa. The following list celebrates the fastest ODI centuries scored by Australian batsmen, featuring some of the most memorable and audacious innings ever witnessed on the international stage.
Here are top 5 fastest centuries by Australian batters in ODIs:
1. Glenn Maxwell vs Netherlands, 2023: 40 Balls
The top spot belongs to none other than the “Big Show,” Glenn Maxwell, whose record-breaking innings against the Netherlands at the ICC Cricket World Cup 2023 was a masterclass in controlled chaos. Arriving at the crease in the 39th over, Maxwell took the Dutch bowling attack to task with a brutal assault of sixes and fours. With Australia already in a commanding position, he played with absolute freedom, bringing up his hundred in an astonishing 40 deliveries to set a new record for the fastest-ever century in a World Cup.
2. Cameron Green vs South Africa, 2025: 47 Balls
The newest addition to this elite list, Cameron Green’s explosive century against South Africa, marked a significant milestone in his burgeoning career. The young all-rounder showcased his immense power and clean striking, dispatching the Proteas’ bowlers to all parts of the ground. His century came in jut 47 balls, built on a foundation of powerful lofted drives and well-timed pulls, not only provided crucial impetus to the Australian innings but also highlighted his growing confidence and stature within the team.
3. Glenn Maxwell vs Sri Lanka, Sydney, 2015: 51 Balls
Before his Delhi heroics, Maxwell had already announced his arrival on the World Cup stage with a scintillating century against Sri Lanka in 2015. Playing in front of a home crowd at the Sydney Cricket Ground, Maxwell’s innings was a flamboyant display of his unique batting style. The century which came in 51 deliveries was at the time the second-fastest by an Australian in ODIs, was a perfect mix of orthodox shots and audacious temperament. He dismantled the Sri Lankan attack with a series of powerful strikes, scoring his runs with a remarkable pace.
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4. James Faulkner vs India, 2013: 57 Balls
The list is completed by James Faulkner’s famous rescue mission against India in Bengaluru. Coming in with Australia in a seemingly hopeless position, Faulkner launched a counter-attack of breathtaking aggression that almost snatched a victory from the jaws of defeat. His innings was a testament to his never-say-die attitude and his ability to thrive under pressure. While Australia ultimately fell short, Faulkner’s knock became a legendary performance, showcasing a rarely seen combination of lower-order power-hitting and composure that earned him immense respect from fans and teammates alike.
5. Travis Head vs New Zealand, 2023: 59 Balls
Making a triumphant return from injury in the high-stakes CWC 2023, Travis Head wasted no time in making his presence felt. Against fierce rivals New Zealand, the dynamic opener unleashed a blistering assault on the bowlers, bringing up his hundred in a mere 59 deliveries. His innings was a key factor in Australia posting a massive total of 388, as he and David Warner put on a devastating opening partnership that set a blistering pace. The century was a clear message that he was back and ready to lead from the front, setting the platform for Australia’s eventual thrilling victory in a record-breaking run-fest.
Also READ: Top 5 youngest batters to score T20I centuries ft. Dewald Brevis
