Urvil Patel Smashes Record for Fastest T20 Century by an Indian

Gujarat’s wicketkeeper-batter Urvil Patel stunned the cricketing world on Wednesday by scoring the fastest T20 century by an Indian, reaching the milestone in just 28 balls. Patel broke Rishabh Pant’s previous record of a 32-ball century, achieving the feat during the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy match against Tripura.

Patel’s blistering knock also stands as the second-fastest T20 century overall, behind Estonia’s Sahil Chauhan, who scored a 27-ball ton against Cyprus earlier this year.

Chasing Tripura’s target of 156, Patel unleashed a breathtaking assault, smashing seven fours and 12 sixes at a staggering strike rate of 322.86. His effort propelled Gujarat to victory with eight wickets in hand and 58 balls to spare. Patel’s opening partner, Aarya Desai, played a steady innings of 38 off 24 balls, anchoring the other end as Patel dominated the attack.

Earlier in the match, Gujarat opted to field first after winning the toss. Tripura managed to post 155/8 in their 20 overs, with Sridam Paul top-scoring with 57 off 49 balls, including four fours and four sixes. Gujarat’s Arzan Nagwaswalla was the standout bowler, claiming 3/35, while Chintan Gaja and Axar Patel contributed with two and one wicket, respectively.

Despite his heroics, Patel has yet to make his mark in the IPL. He was picked by Gujarat Titans in 2023 but is still awaiting his debut. Over his T20 career, Patel has scored 988 runs in 44 matches, with an average of 23.52 and an impressive strike rate of 164.11. His record includes one century and four fifties, with his highest score being an unbeaten 113.

Patel’s knock has now eclipsed Rishabh Pant’s 32-ball century against Himachal Pradesh in 2018 as the fastest by an Indian in T20s. With his current form, Patel is proving himself as one of the most exciting prospects in domestic cricket.