Fastest centuries by India batters in World Cup history

Indian cricketers have scripted some of the most terrific records in international cricket. They have also scored some memorable centuries in ODI World Cups over the years. In this article, we will take a look at the three of the fastest centuries hit by Indian batters in terms of balls faced.

3) 81 -Virender Sehwag vs Bermuda in 2007

The swashbuckling Delhi batter had the ability to pulverise the strongest bowling attacks in the world with consummate ease. He batted like a man possessed in the 2007 ODI World Cup against Bermuda at Port of Spain in a Group B clash. Batting at No. 3, Sehwag scored a blistering century off just 81 balls. He was eventually dismissed for 114 off 87 deliveries after hitting 17 fours and three sixes. India went on to register the first 400-plus total in ODI World Cups, finishing their innings at 413/5. In reply, Bermuda were bowled out for just 156.

2) 72 -Kapil Dev vs Zimbabwe in 1983

This match was unfortunately not recorded and televised as BBC was on strike but the ones who witnessed Kapil Dev smashing the Zimbabwean bowlers all around Nevill Ground in Tunbridge Wells were treated to something very special. India were reeling at 17/5 when Kapil came out to set the 1983 World Cup ablaze. The Indian captain notched up his century off just 72 balls. He went on to score 175* off 138 balls with the help of 16 fours and six sixes. India posted 266/8 in their stipulated 60 overs before winning the encounter by 31 runs.

1) 63 -Rohit Sharma vs Afghanistan in 2023

After 40 years, in the ODI World Cup 2023, Rohit Sharma broke Kapil’s record for the fastest century by an Indian in the history of the marquee event. The Mumbai batter achieved the feat against Afghanistan in Delhi. Rohit got to the magical three-figure mark off just 63 balls. His knock of 131 off 84 balls comprised 16 fours and five sixes India chased down the target of 273 runs in just 35 overs.