In the explosive arena of T20 International cricket, centuries are rare, but lightning-fast centuries? They're the stuff of legend. In what has become one of the most talked-about records in recent cricket history, a young Nepalese batter etched his name in gold with a jaw-dropping innings that redefined aggression and timing.
Kushal Malla's 34-Ball Madness: The Fastest T20I Hundred Ever
When Kushal Malla walked out to bat for Nepal against Mongolia on September 27, 2023, few could have predicted the fireworks that were about to unfold. In just 34 balls, the 19-year-old southpaw reached a century, smashing the record for the fastest hundred in T20 Internationals.
The match, part of the 2022 Asian Games (played in 2023), was already tilted in Nepal’s favor, but Malla’s innings turned it into a cricketing spectacle. He hammered 12 sixes and 8 boundaries, leaving bowlers and fans stunned.
Breaking Records in Style
Before this match, the record for the fastest T20I century was held jointly by:
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David Miller (South Africa) – 35 balls
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Rohit Sharma (India) – 35 balls
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Sudesh Wickramasekara (Czech Republic) – 35 balls
Malla not only broke the record—he shattered it.
A Rising Star from Nepal
Kushal Malla's rise is emblematic of how associate nations are stepping into the global cricketing spotlight. With consistent performances and fearless batting, Malla has become a household name, especially after this explosive feat.
His knock also helped Nepal post a mammoth 314/3—the highest-ever team total in T20I history, making the occasion even more unforgettable.
“This is not just a record for me, it’s a moment for Nepal cricket,” said Malla after the match.
The Evolution of T20 Cricket
T20 cricket has transformed the dynamics of batting. With innovations like reverse scoops, ramp shots, and helicopter hits, players are constantly challenging the boundaries of what's possible. Malla’s innings is proof that even in international cricket, age and origin are no barrier to greatness.
Why Fast Centuries Matter
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They shift the game's momentum instantly
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They demoralize bowling units
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They energize crowds and ignite global interest
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They inspire the next generation of cricketers
And perhaps most importantly, they make for unmissable cricket.
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Quick Recap: Fastest T20I Centuries (as of 2025)
| Player | Balls | Opponent | Year |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kushal Malla (Nepal) | 34 | Mongolia | 2023 |
| David Miller (SA) | 35 | Bangladesh | 2017 |
| Rohit Sharma (India) | 35 | Sri Lanka | 2017 |
| S. Wickramasekara | 35 | Turkey | 2019 |
Final Word from CricketMan2
As cricket continues to evolve, the pace of play and the aggression of modern batsmen are taking the game into uncharted territory. Records like Kushal Malla’s fastest T20I century are not just milestones—they are reminders of the thrilling unpredictability of the sport we love.
Stay tuned to CricketMan2 because when records break, we bring you the story first.
