The Indian Premier League (IPL) is known for its electrifying atmosphere, world-class talent, and jaw-dropping performances. Among those, nothing sets the crowd on fire like a blistering century. Some batters don’t just reach the hundred mark—they blaze their way through it. Here’s a look at the Top 5 Fastest Centuries in IPL history, where timing, power, and audacity came together in record-breaking fashion.
1. Chris Gayle – 100 in 30 balls (RCB vs PWI, 2013)
Balls Faced: 30
Final Score: 175* (66 balls)
Venue: M. Chinnaswamy Stadium, Bengaluru
Chris Gayle’s knock against Pune Warriors India in 2013 is not just the fastest IPL century—it’s also the fastest in all of T20 cricket. The ‘Universe Boss’ launched an all-out assault, smashing 13 fours and 17 sixes in an innings that still sends chills down the spine. RCB posted 263/5, the highest team total in IPL history, and Gayle’s innings is often considered the greatest ever in franchise cricket.
2. Yusuf Pathan – 100 in 37 balls (RR vs MI, 2010)
Balls Faced: 37
Final Score: 100 (37 balls)
Venue: Brabourne Stadium, Mumbai
Before Gayle’s blitz, Yusuf Pathan held the record with his incredible 37-ball ton for Rajasthan Royals against Mumbai Indians. Despite RR falling short in a dramatic chase, Pathan’s innings was a one-man show filled with sheer muscle and fearless hitting. His century included 8 sixes and 9 fours—raw power at its best.
3. David Miller – 100 in 38 balls (KXIP vs RCB, 2013)
Balls Faced: 38
Final Score: 101* (38 balls)
Venue: PCA Stadium, Mohali
It’s in the tree if it’s in the V. It’s out of the park if it’s in the arc. That was David Miller’s catchphrase throughout this match. Coming in at a tough situation, Miller turned it around with calculated aggression and unbelievable power-hitting. His 38-ball century helped Punjab chase down 190 with 2 overs to spare—earning him the nickname Killer Miller.
4. Adam Gilchrist – 100 in 42 balls (DC vs MI, 2008)
Balls Faced: 42
Final Score: 109* (47 balls)
Venue: DY Patil Stadium, Navi Mumbai
In IPL’s debut season, Adam Gilchrist set the tone early with a devastating knock against Mumbai Indians. Opening the batting for Deccan Chargers, he reached his century in just 42 balls, showing why he was one of the most feared openers in world cricket. His knock laid the foundation for many future IPL fireworks.
5. AB de Villiers – 100 in 43 balls (RCB vs GT, 2016)
Balls Faced: 43
Final Score: 129* (52 balls)
Venue: M. Chinnaswamy Stadium, Bengaluru
Mr. 360, AB de Villiers, showcased his full repertoire in this knock, crafting a 43-ball century against Gujarat Lions. Alongside Virat Kohli, he put on a monstrous partnership (229 runs), peppering all parts of the ground with pure innovation and timing. ABD’s ability to switch gears and dominate in style made this one of the most entertaining innings ever.
Honourable Mentions:
- Sanath Jayasuriya – 100 in 45 balls (MI vs CSK, 2008)
- Mayank Agarwal – 100 in 45 balls (KXIP vs RR, 2020)
- Harry Brook – 100 in 55 balls (SRH vs KKR, 2023)
Final Thoughts
These innings are a testament to how the IPL has redefined aggressive batting in T20 cricket. From Gayle’s carnage to Yusuf’s brute force and ABD’s magic, each century was not just about runs—it was about rewriting what’s possible in T20 cricket. With every new season, the possibility of breaking these records remains alive. Who knows? The next fastest century might just be around the corner.
