ICC World Cup 2023: Aiden Markram Breaks 12-Year-Old Record of Kevin O’Brien to Score Fastest-Ever Century in World Cup History

In a stunning display of batting prowess, South Africa batting giant Aiden Markram created history by scoring the quickest century in the history of the ODI World Cup. He achieved this milestone in just 49 balls against Sri Lanka on October 7, 2023 at Arun Jaitley Stadium, Delhi.

Aiden Markram shattered a 12-year-old record previously held by Ireland batter Kevin O’Brien, who smashed a 50-ball century during the 2011 World Cup in Bengaluru. Glenn Maxwell sits in third place with a 51-ball century while South Africa legend AB de Villiers occupies fourth place with a 52-ball century.

Fastest Century in the ICC Cricket World Cup:

1. Aiden Markram – 49 balls*
2. Kevin O’Brien – 50 balls
3. Glenn Maxwell – 51 balls
4. AB de Villiers – 52 balls

When Aiden Markram walked in to bat, South Africa was sitting pretty at 264-3, courtesy of Quinton de Kock and Rassie van der Dussen’s brilliant centuries.

Then, Markram just went on a rampage against the Sri Lankan bowlers, smashing the ball to all corners of the park. There was not a spot on the field where he didn’t send the ball.

Markram’s incredible innings of 106 runs from 56 balls was studded with 14 boundaries and three powerful sixes. He was eventually dismissed by Dilshan Madhushanka while attempting a big hit.

South Africa ended up with an incredible total of 428 runs on the scoreboard, all thanks to the century knocks from Quinton de Kock, Rassie van der Dussen, and Aiden Markram setting a new record for the highest ever total in ODI World Cup history.