Introduction
T20 cricket’s greatest batting displays have occurred in the Indian Premier League (IPL). Among the many incredible feats, scoring a century in the shortest time is one of the most remarkable achievements. The record for the fastest hundred in IPL history belongs to Chris Gayle, who delivered a breathtaking 30-ball century in 2013.
Chris Gayle’s Unforgettable Knock
On April 23, 2013, Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) faced Pune Warriors India at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru. Opening the innings for RCB, Chris Gayle played an innings that redefined power-hitting in T20 cricket. He reached his century in just 30 balls, smashing 13 fours and 17 sixes.
Gayle went on to score an unbeaten 175 runs off 66 balls, setting multiple records, including:
Fastest century in IPL history (30 balls)
Highest individual score in an IPL match (175*)
Most sixes in a single IPL innings (17)
His onslaught propelled RCB to 263/5, the highest team total in IPL at that time. Pune Warriors India could only manage 133/9, handing RCB a dominant 130-run victory.
Other Fastest Centuries in IPL History
While Gayle’s 30-ball century remains unbeaten, several players have come close:
1. Yusuf Pathan (37 balls)
Match: Rajasthan Royals vs Mumbai Indians (2010)
Score: 100 off 37 balls
Outcome: Despite his heroics, Rajasthan Royals lost by four runs.
2. David Miller (38 balls)
Match: Royal Challengers Bangalore vs Kings XI Punjab (2013)
Score: 101* off 38 balls
Outcome: Miller’s knock helped Punjab chase down 191 runs with ease.
3. Travis Head (39 balls)
Match: Sunrisers Hyderabad vs Royal Challengers Bangalore (2024)
Score: 102 off 39 balls
Outcome: His innings helped SRH post a record total of 287 and win by 25 runs.
4. Will Jacks (41 balls)
Match: Royal Challengers Bangalore vs Gujarat Titans (2024)
Score: 100* off 41 balls
Outcome: Jacks’ century helped RCB chase down 201 effortlessly.
Impact of Gayle’s Record
Chris Gayle’s 30-ball century remains one of the most iconic innings in IPL history. His fearless approach changed the way T20 cricket is played, inspiring batsmen to adopt a more aggressive style. His record still stands unbeaten, proving the sheer brilliance of his innings.
Conclusion
The IPL continues to witness extraordinary batting performances, but Chris Gayle’s 30-ball century remains the fastest in the tournament’s history. While players like Yusuf Pathan, David Miller, and Travis Head have come close, Gayle’s record stands as a benchmark for explosive batting. Fans eagerly await the moment when, or if, this incredible milestone will ever be broken.
