The One Day International (ODI) Cricket World Cup has witnessed some breathtaking performances over the years, with players showcasing their batting prowess and achieving remarkable milestones. One such milestone is scoring a century in the fastest time possible. In this article, we will explore the top five fastest centuries in ODI Cricket World Cup history, highlighting the players’ achievements and their impact on the game.
- Kevin O’Brien (50 balls) – Ireland vs. England (2011):
Kevin O’Brien holds the record for the fastest century in World Cup history. He achieved this feat in just 50 balls during Ireland’s match against England in the 2011 World Cup. O’Brien’s innings of 113 runs, including 13 fours and 6 sixes, powered Ireland to an incredible victory over their formidable opponents.
- Glenn Maxwell (51 balls) – Australia vs. Sri Lanka (2015):
Glenn Maxwell’s destructive batting style was on full display during Australia’s encounter with Sri Lanka in the 2015 World Cup. He blazed his way to a century off just 51 balls, smashing 10 fours and 4 sixes. Maxwell’s rapid century played a pivotal role in Australia’s comprehensive win.
- AB de Villiers (52 balls) – South Africa vs. West Indies (2015):
AB de Villiers, known for his innovative stroke play, produced a breathtaking innings against the West Indies in the 2015 World Cup. He reached his hundred in only 52 deliveries, hitting 16 fours and 4 sixes. De Villiers’ record-breaking knock powered South Africa to a mammoth total and a convincing victory.
4.Eoin Morgan (57 balls)- England vs. Afghanistan (2019):
Eoin Morgan, the former captain of the England cricket team, etched his name in the record books during the 2019 World Cup clash against Afghanistan. In a commanding display of power-hitting, Morgan smashed a scintillating century off just 57 balls. His innings included 4 fours and a record-breaking 17 sixes, surpassing the previous record held by Rohit Sharma and AB de Villiers.
- Matthew Hayden (66 balls) – Australia vs. South Africa (2007):
Matthew Hayden’s explosive batting was a key factor in Australia’s dominance during the 2007 World Cup. In a crucial match against South Africa, Hayden played a blistering innings of 101 runs off just 66 balls, smashing 14 fours and 4 sixes. His century helped Australia secure a crucial win.
The ODI Cricket World Cup has witnessed some breathtaking batting performances, with players displaying their ability to score centuries at lightning-fast speeds. Kevin O’Brien’s record-breaking century off 50 balls stands at the top of the list. Other notable entries include Glenn Maxwell, AB de Villiers, Eoin Morgan and Matthew Hayden, who showcased their exceptional batting skills in their respective matches. These remarkable innings have left an indelible mark in the history of ODI Cricket World Cup, mesmerizing cricket fans worldwide.
