Top 5 Fastest Centuries in ODI World Cup History

The Top 5 Fastest Centuries in ODI World Cup History showcase explosive brilliance on cricket’s grandest stage. These rapid knocks weren’t just quick runs—they were fearless displays of dominance, rewriting records in mere overs. Each century stunned crowds, rattled bowlers, and defined World Cup drama. Let’s dive into the most electrifying hundreds ever scored under pressure.

Let`s take a look at the Top 5 Fastest Centuries in ODI World Cup History:

5. AB de Villiers – 162 off 66 balls vs West Indies, 2015

Venue: Sydney Cricket Ground
Date: February 27, 2015
Match: South Africa vs West Indies

While his 52-ball century was lightning quick, it was AB de Villiers’ breathtaking stroke-play that made this innings truly iconic. Walking in during the 30th over, he unleashed a masterclass of innovation and power, finishing with an unbeaten 162 off just 66 balls.

From audacious scoops to towering sixes, AB de Villiers powered South Africa from 146/3 to 408/5, smashing 30 runs in an over and recording the fastest 150 in ODI history. This iconic knock ranks among the Top 5 Fastest Centuries in ODI World Cup History, blending power, innovation, and brilliance.

AB de Villiers’ Innings Stats (vs West Indies):

Runs	Balls	4s	6s	SR	Century Balls
162*	66	17	8	245.45	52

4. Glenn Maxwell – 102 off 51 balls vs Sri Lanka, 2015

Venue: Sydney Cricket Ground
Date: March 8, 2015
Match: Australia vs Sri Lanka

Glenn Maxwell earns another spot in the Top 5 Fastest Centuries in ODI World Cup History with his explosive 2015 knock against Sri Lanka. Walking in with Australia already on top, he unleashed pure aggression and fearless creativity.

Reaching his century in just 51 balls—the second-fastest in World Cup history at the time—Maxwell dismantled the bowling attack with ease. From reverse paddles to massive sixes down the ground, it was a dazzling display of confidence and power.

Glenn Maxwell’s Innings Stats (vs Sri Lanka):

Runs	Balls	4s	6s	SR	Century Balls
102	53	10	4	192.45	51

3. Kevin O’Brien – 113 off 50 balls vs England, 2011

Venue: M. Chinnaswamy Stadium, Bengaluru
Date: March 2, 2011
Match: Ireland vs England

In one of the greatest World Cup upsets, Kevin O’Brien delivered a historic knock against England that cemented his place among the Top 5 Fastest Centuries in ODI World Cup History. Chasing 328, Ireland were reeling at 111/5 when O’Brien stepped in and smashed a stunning 50-ball century—the fastest in World Cup history at the time.

With his iconic pink hair and fearless strokeplay, he tore through England’s bowling, especially punishing the spinners and medium-pacers. His explosive innings sparked a miraculous comeback and made him a national hero overnight.

Kevin O’Brien’s Innings Stats (vs England):

Runs	Balls	4s	6s	SR	Century Balls
113	63	13	6	179.36	50

2. Aiden Markram – 106 off 49 balls vs Sri Lanka, 2023

Venue: Arun Jaitley Stadium, Delhi
Date: October 7, 2023
Match: South Africa vs Sri Lanka

In a record-breaking run-fest where South Africa posted 428—the highest team total in World Cup history—Aiden Markram stole the spotlight with a sensational knock that earned him a place among the Top 5 Fastest Centuries in ODI World Cup History.

Usually known for his calm Test-match approach, Markram flipped the script with a breathtaking display of power and timing. Blending elegance with aggression, he unleashed commanding drives, booming pulls, and fearless lofted shots, scoring at a stunning pace without seeming to take a single risk.

Aiden Markram’s Innings Stats (vs Sri Lanka):

Runs	Balls	4s	6s	SR	Century Balls
106	54	14	3	196.29	49

1. Glenn Maxwell – 106 off 40 balls vs Netherlands, 2023

Venue: Arun Jaitley Stadium, Delhi
Date: October 25, 2023
Match: Australia vs Netherlands

When Australia faced the Netherlands in Delhi, few anticipated the spectacle that followed. Glenn Maxwell, with his trademark flair and 360-degree strokeplay, stormed into the record books by smashing a century off just 40 balls—the fastest ever in World Cup history and a standout in the Top 5 Fastest Centuries in ODI World Cup History.

Walking in after a solid start, Maxwell wasted no time. He dismantled the Dutch attack with outrageous innovation—reverse sweeps, scoops, blistering pulls, and elegant lofts. His record-breaking blitz surpassed Aiden Markram’s mark and left fans and commentators in utter disbelief.

Glenn Maxwell’s Innings Stats (vs Netherlands):

Runs	Balls	4s	6s	SR	Century Balls
106	44	9	8	240.90	40

Conclusion

The Top 5 Fastest Centuries in ODI World Cup History are not just records—they’re unforgettable moments of fearless brilliance. From AB de Villiers’ genius to Maxwell’s record-smashing blitz, these knocks redefined what’s possible on cricket’s biggest stage and continue to inspire fans worldwide.

FAQ`s

Q1: Who holds the record for the fastest century in ODI World Cup history?

A: Glenn Maxwell holds the record, scoring a century in just 40 balls against the Netherlands in the 2023 World Cup.

Q2: Which player scored the first 50-ball century in a World Cup match?

A: Kevin O’Brien of Ireland scored a 50-ball century against England in 2011, which was the fastest at the time.

Q3: Has any player appeared more than once in the Top 5 Fastest Centuries list?

A: Yes, Glenn Maxwell features twice with his centuries in 2015 (vs Sri Lanka) and 2023 (vs Netherlands).