Franchise T20 cricket has completely transformed batting over the past decade, with players constantly redefining what is possible in the shortest format. From Chris Gayle’s unforgettable assault in the Indian Premier League (IPL) to Nicholas Pooran’s record-breaking heroics in Major League Cricket (MLC), batters have continued to push the limits of power-hitting. Pooran’s sensational century against Washington Freedom in MLC 2026 has now made him the second-fastest player to reach a hundred in franchise T20 cricket, joining an elite group of explosive batters who have produced some of the format’s greatest innings.
Top 5 fastest centuries in franchise T20 cricket
1. Chris Gayle – 30 balls (vs Pune Warriors India, IPL 2013)
Gayle continues to sit comfortably at the top of this prestigious list after producing arguably the greatest T20 innings ever played. Representing Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) in IPL 2013, the “Universe Boss” blasted a century in just 30 deliveries against Pune Warriors India (PWI). Gayle’s breathtaking knock featured towering sixes and effortless power as he dismantled the bowling attack from start to finish. More than a decade later, his 30-ball hundred remains the benchmark for explosive batting in franchise T20 cricket.
2. Nicholas Pooran – 31 balls (vs Washington Freedom, MLC 2026)
Pooran stormed into second place after producing one of the finest knocks in Major League Cricket history. Playing for MI New York (MINY) against Washington Freedom in the 2026 Eliminator, the West Indies wicketkeeper-batter raced to a century in only 31 deliveries. His fearless strokeplay and clean hitting lit up the contest as he registered the fastest hundred in MLC history. Although MI New York eventually lost the match, Pooran’s sensational innings secured its place among the greatest franchise T20 knocks ever played.
3. Finn Allen – 35 balls (vs Washington Freedom, MLC 2025)
New Zealand opener Finn Allen occupies third place after smashing a century in just 35 balls during the 2025 MLC season. Renowned for his ultra-aggressive approach, Allen attacked from the very first over and never allowed the bowlers to settle. His remarkable innings showcased his exceptional ball-striking ability and reinforced his reputation as one of the most destructive openers in world cricket.
4. Vaibhav Suryavanshi – 35 balls (vs Gujarat Titans, IPL 2025)
Teenage sensation Vaibhav Suryavanshi announced himself on the biggest stage by hammering a 35-ball century against Gujarat Titans (GT) in IPL 2025. The young Indian batter combined fearless intent with remarkable composure, taking apart an experienced bowling attack with ease. His extraordinary innings not only placed him among the fastest centurions in franchise T20 history but also established him as one of cricket’s brightest emerging stars.
5. Usman Khan – 35 balls (vs Quetta Gladiators, PSL 2023)
Usman Khan rounds off the list following his blistering century for Multan Sultans against Quetta Gladiators in the Pakistan Super League 2023. Reaching the landmark in just 35 deliveries, Usman mixed conventional strokeplay with innovative shot-making to dominate the opposition bowlers. The innings showcased his immense hitting ability and remains one of the fastest and most memorable centuries in PSL history.
