Top 5 Fastest Test Centuries Hit by Indian Batsmen in Test Cricket. In the world of cricket, there have been several batters who have left the audience awed with their remarkable striking ability. From legendary players like Australian opener Mathew Hayden to India’s aggressive batsman Virender Sehwag, the late 90s and early 2000s were graced with exceptional talent. Even earlier, players like Viv Richards, Imran Khan, and Kapil Dev entertained the crowd with their brutal power-hitting. While T20 cricket emerged later, the previous generation had already given a glimpse of the future of the game.
Looking at the current crop of players, it is evident that a new breed of power-hitters is on the rise. Players like Rishabh Pant are expected to make a significant impact in the game with their aggressive batting style and the ability to change the course of a match.
When it comes to the fastest century ever hit in test cricket, many people are familiar with Brendon McCullum’s record-breaking 54-ball century in his final test match. However, have you ever wondered which Indian batsman holds the record for the fastest test century? Let’s delve into the top five fastest centuries by Indian batsmen in test cricket.
Hardik Pandya – 86 balls vs SL, Pallekele, 2017
All-rounder Hardik Pandya etched his name in history by smashing a blistering 86-ball century against Sri Lanka at Pallekele Cricket Stadium in August 2017. Pandya displayed remarkable batting prowess, scoring 108 runs in just 96 balls, including 8 fours and 7 sixes. His powerful all-round performance in the series contributed to India’s resounding 3-0 victory over Sri Lanka.
Shikhar Dhawan – 85 balls vs AUS, Mohali, 2013
Shikhar Dhawan announced his arrival on the international stage with a breathtaking 85-ball century against Australia on his test debut in Mohali. Dhawan’s aggressive batting led to a remarkable innings of 187 runs in 174 balls, featuring 33 fours and two sixes. It is also worth noting that this is the fastest century by a batsman on test cricket debut.
Virender Sehwag – 78 balls vs WI, St Lucia, 2006
Former Indian opening batsman Virender Sehwag was known for his aggressive approach in test cricket. In 2006, he showcased his incredible batting skills by scoring the fastest century in just 78 balls against the West Indies in St. Lucia. Sehwag’s mammoth knock of 180 runs in 190 balls, including 20 fours and 2 sixes, left a lasting impression on the game.
Mohammad Azharuddin – 74 balls vs SA, Kolkata, 1996
Former India captain Mohammad Azharuddin holds the joint-fastest test century record for India. His remarkable innings at Eden Gardens against South Africa in 1996 saw him achieve a magnificent century in just 74 balls. Azharuddin’s knock of 109 runs off 77 deliveries, which included 18 fours and a six, played a crucial role in helping India recover from an early deficit.
Kapil Dev – 74 balls vs SL, Kanpur, 1986
A true legend of Indian cricket, former all-rounder and 1983 World Cup-winning captain Kapil Dev holds the record for the fastest century by an Indian batsman in test cricket. In a high-scoring draw match against Sri Lanka in Kanpur in 1986, Kapil Dev smashed a 74-ball century and went on to score 163 runs in 165 balls, with 19 fours and a six.
The achievements of these top Indian batsmen in test cricket have left an indelible mark on the history of the sport. Their exceptional batting performances have contributed significantly to the legacy of Indian cricket.
For the latest updates and news on cricket, follow AxomLive on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and Youtube. You can also stay connected by downloading the AxomLive App or IOS App and joining our community on Whatsapp & Telegram.
By focusing on the incredible achievements of these Indian batsmen in test cricket, it is evident that their remarkable performances have played a pivotal role in shaping the future of the sport. Their aggressive batting styles and ability to dominate the game have set new benchmarks for generations to come.