In the thrilling world of T20 cricket, fast centuries have become a hallmark of remarkable batting prowess. Among the many explosive players, Abhishek Sharma recently made headlines with his astounding performance in Wellington, contributing significantly to India’s victory against New Zealand.
India's Remarkable Chase
India aimed to chase down a challenging target of 198 runs in their T20I series against New Zealand. The spotlight shone brightly on Abhishek Sharma, who showcased his striking abilities right from the start.
Sharma reached his half-century in a mere 15 balls, which earned him a joint spot for the third-fastest fifty by an Indian in T20 internationals. This phenomenal start not only electrified the match but also helped India secure a record total of 118 runs without losing a wicket during the powerplay. The previous record for powerplay runs was held by Romania, who scored 116 runs without a loss in a match against Serbia.
Sharma's Record-Breaking Century
Abhishek continued his remarkable performance, going on to achieve a century off just 35 balls, finally scoring 113 runs off 38 balls before his dismissal. This inning not only helped his team clinch the series but also reinforced his stature in T20 cricket.
The Fastest Centuries in T20 Internationals
Here’s a closer look at the fastest centuries recorded in T20 internationals, highlighting the achievements of various cricketers:
- Abhishek Sharma - 30 balls (India vs Afghanistan, Delhi, 17/09/2026)
- Sikandar Raza - 33 balls (Zimbabwe vs Gambia, Nairobi, 23/10/2024)
- Finn Allen - 35 balls (New Zealand vs South Africa, Kolkata, 04/03/2026)
- Abhishek Sharma - 35 balls (India vs New Zealand, Wellington, 27/10/2026)
- David Miller - 36 balls (South Africa vs Bangladesh, Potchefstroom, 29/10/2017)
- Rohit Sharma - 37 balls (India vs Sri Lanka, Indore, 22/12/2017)
- Tim David - 38 balls (Australia vs West Indies, Basseterre, 25/07/2025)
- Johnson Charles - 39 balls (West Indies vs South Africa, Centurion, 26/03/2023)
- Phil Salt - 40 balls (England vs South Africa, Manchester, 12/09/2025)
- Sanju Samson - 40 balls (India vs Bangladesh, Hyderabad, 12/10/2024)
Top Fastest Centuries in IPL
When it comes to the IPL, Chris Gayle holds the record for the fastest century, achieved in just 30 balls against Pune Warriors in 2013. Vaibhav Sooryavanshi makes notable appearances, ranking second and third on the list with remarkable innings:
- Chris Gayle - 30 balls (Royal Challengers Bangalore vs Pune Warriors, Bangalore, 23 April 2013)
- Vaibhav Sooryavanshi - 35 balls (Rajasthan Royals vs Gujarat Titans, Jaipur, 28 April 2025)
- Vaibhav Sooryavanshi - 36 balls (Rajasthan Royals vs Sunrisers Hyderabad, Jaipur, 25 April 2026)
- Yusuf Pathan - 37 balls (Rajasthan Royals vs Mumbai Indians, Mumbai, 13 March 2010)
- Heinrich Klaasen - 38 balls (Sunrisers Hyderabad vs Kolkata Knight Riders, Mohali, 06 May 2013)
- Travis Head - 40 balls (Sunrisers Hyderabad vs Royal Challengers Bangalore, Bengaluru, 15 April 2024)
These records exemplify the electrifying nature of T20 cricket, showcasing the talents of dynamic players. Abhishek Sharma's incredible record not only sets a benchmark for future cricketers but also adds to the rich history of cricketing achievements.