The Indian Premier League (IPL) has become a premier stage for explosive cricket, especially in the T20 format. Over the years, fans have witnessed some breathtaking batting performances, including blistering half-centuries that have changed the course of matches in mere minutes. In T20 cricket, quick scoring is essential, and a few batters have taken this to an entirely different level.
This article highlights the top five fastest fifties ever recorded in IPL history—feats that showcase raw power, precision, and fearless intent.
1. Yashasvi Jaiswal – 13 Balls
Team: Rajasthan Royals
Opponent: Kolkata Knight Riders
Venue: Eden Gardens, Kolkata
Date: 11 May 2023
Yashasvi Jaiswal holds the record for the fastest half-century in IPL history. He reached his fifty in just 13 balls during a match against Kolkata Knight Riders in the 2023 season. Opening the innings in a chase of 150, Jaiswal smashed an unbeaten 98 from 47 deliveries, hitting 12 fours and 5 sixes. Rajasthan Royals won the match convincingly, thanks to his aggressive and calculated knock.
2. KL Rahul – 14 Balls
Team: Kings XI Punjab (now Punjab Kings)
Opponent: Delhi Capitals
Venue: Mohali
Date: 8 April 2018
KL Rahul is known for his elegant stroke play, but in 2018, he displayed a different side of his game by scoring a 14-ball fifty against Delhi Capitals. Chasing 167, Rahul opened the innings with a fiery intent and scored 51 off just 16 balls, which included 6 fours and 4 sixes. His knock set the tone for a successful chase and remains one of the standout performances of his IPL career.
3. Pat Cummins – 14 Balls
Team: Kolkata Knight Riders
Opponent: Mumbai Indians
Venue: DY Patil Stadium, Pune
Date: 6 April 2022
Pat Cummins, widely regarded as one of the top fast bowlers in world cricket, surprised everyone with the bat when he equaled the record for the second-fastest IPL fifty. Batting at number seven, Cummins reached his half-century in just 14 balls and remained unbeaten on 56 off 15 deliveries. His knock helped KKR chase down the target of 162 in just 16 overs, making it one of the most explosive finishes in the league’s history.
4. Yusuf Pathan – 15 Balls
Team: Kolkata Knight Riders
Opponent: Sunrisers Hyderabad
Venue: Eden Gardens, Kolkata
Date: 24 May 2014
Yusuf Pathan was known for his ability to change games single-handedly, and his 15-ball fifty against Sunrisers Hyderabad in 2014 is a testament to that. Chasing 161, KKR found themselves under pressure, but Pathan’s 72 off 22 balls, which included 5 fours and 7 sixes, turned the game in their favor. His power-hitting helped KKR secure a crucial win in the league stage.
5. Sunil Narine – 15 Balls
Team: Kolkata Knight Riders
Opponent: Royal Challengers Bangalore
Venue: M. Chinnaswamy Stadium, Bangalore
Date: 7 May 2017
Sunil Narine, typically known for his bowling, stunned everyone with a 15-ball half-century while opening the innings against Royal Challengers Bangalore in 2017. He scored 54 runs from just 17 balls and partnered with Chris Lynn to add over 100 runs for the opening wicket in just over six overs. Narine’s unexpected but impactful innings played a vital role in KKR’s dominant win.
Conclusion
The IPL continues to provide a platform for extraordinary performances and high-impact moments. These fastest fifties have not only thrilled audiences but also demonstrated how one player’s aggression can change the momentum of an entire match. As each season unfolds, fans eagerly await to see if anyone can break Yashasvi Jaiswal’s record and set a new benchmark in the shortest format.
