Afghanistan opener Rahmanullah Gurbaz etched his name in the record books by smashing the second fastest ODI century against India. The right-handed batter reached the three-figure mark off just 67 balls during the first ODI between Afghanistan and India at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai on June 13, 2026.
Gurbaz's Blazing Knock
Gurbaz's innings was a display of aggressive stroke play, featuring 10 boundaries and 5 sixes. He took the Indian bowling attack to task, particularly targeting the spinners. His century came in the 25th over, helping Afghanistan post a competitive total after being asked to bat first.
The 24-year-old from Kabul now occupies the second spot in the list of fastest ODI centuries against India. The record for the fastest century against India in ODIs is held by Sri Lankan legend Sanath Jayasuriya, who achieved the feat in just 48 balls during the 1996 Asia Cup in Singapore.
Fastest ODI Centuries Against India
- Sanath Jayasuriya (Sri Lanka) - 48 balls, 1996
- Rahmanullah Gurbaz (Afghanistan) - 67 balls, 2026
- Shahid Afridi (Pakistan) - 68 balls, 2005
- Evin Lewis (West Indies) - 70 balls, 2016
- AB de Villiers (South Africa) - 71 balls, 2015
Match Context
Gurbaz's knock came in a crucial series for Afghanistan as they aim to solidify their position in the ODI rankings. The innings also highlighted his growing stature as a destructive opener in white-ball cricket. His partnership with fellow opener Hazratullah Zazai set the platform for a challenging total.
India's Response
In reply, India's chase was led by captain Rohit Sharma, who scored a steady half-century. However, Afghanistan's spin duo of Rashid Khan and Mujeeb Ur Rahman kept the pressure on, taking crucial wickets at regular intervals. The match went down to the wire, with India eventually winning by 3 wickets with 11 balls to spare.
Despite the loss, Gurbaz's innings was widely praised by cricket pundits and fans alike. The record for the fastest ODI century against India remains with Sanath Jayasuriya, but Gurbaz's effort has certainly put him in elite company.
As the series progresses, all eyes will be on Gurbaz to see if he can replicate his heroics in the remaining matches.
