10 Fastest centuries in ICC World Cup history: World cup is so tough on the players sometimes that even the best of international players fall to the pressure and struggle to perform at the biggest stage in cricket the<a title="Top 10 players to watch out for in ICC World Cup 2015" href="http://www.crictracker.com/top-10-players-to-watch-out-for-in-icc-world-cup-2015/" target="_blank"> ICC cricket world cup.</a> As ODI cricket with the field restrictions and bowling rules is considered to favour the batsmen thus also referred as the batsmen&#8217;s game requires them to be at their very best in every game. All it takes is a one good delivery to get the wicket whereas the batsman has to be at his best all the while he is on the field. Here we have the ten best batsmen who have the record under their name for the 10 fastest hundreds in cricket world cup history.

10. Brad Hodge 82 balls vs. Netherlands St.Kitts, 2007

<a href="https://media.crictracker.com/media/attachments/2015/01/Clarke-Hodge.jpg"><img loading="lazy" class="wp-image-9293 " src="https://media.crictracker.com/media/attachments/Clarke-Hodge.jpg" alt="(Photo Source: AFP)" width="387" height="485" sizes="(max-width: 387px) 100vw, 387px"></a><figcaption id="caption-attachment-9293" class="wp-caption-text">Hodge hit 7 huge sixes and 6 fours in his whirlwind innings. (Photo Source: AFP)</figcaption>

Australia played Netherlands in a group match and batted first on a flat pitch. Australia made a mammoth 358 runs thanks to a century off 82 balls by Brad Hodge. Hodge hit 7 huge sixes and 6 fours in his whirlwind innings. He was ably supported by Michael Clarke who made an unbeaten 93 runs.

Netherlands managed just 129 runs in reply and lost the match by 229 runs.

9. Clive Lloyd 82 balls vs. Australia Lord’s, 1975

<a href="https://media.crictracker.com/media/attachments/2015/01/Clive-Lloyd.jpeg"><img loading="lazy" class="wp-image-9739 " src="https://media.crictracker.com/media/attachments/Clive-Lloyd.jpeg" alt="(Photo Source: ICC)" width="286" height="421" sizes="(max-width: 286px) 100vw, 286px"></a><figcaption id="caption-attachment-9739" class="wp-caption-text">Lloyd was dominating the Aussie bowlers. West Indies scored 291 in their allotted 60 overs. (Photo Source: ICC)</figcaption>

Clive Lloyd decided to make the final of the first ever World cup in 1975 should begin with a bang. He did it himself by scoring a scorching century in the final off just 82 deliveries. He was supported by Rohan Kanhai who scored 55 runs and at one point of time, didn’t score a run for 8 overs as Lloyd was dominating the Aussie bowlers. West Indies scored 291 in their allotted 60 overs.

Australia replied in kind and scored 274 runs losing by just 17 runs. The major factor in their loss was the crucial run outs of Greg Chappell, Ian Chappell and Alan Turner by Viv Richards.

8. Virender Sehwag 81 balls vs. Bermuda Trinidad, 2007

<a href="https://media.crictracker.com/media/attachments/2015/01/Virender-Sehwag.jpg"><img loading="lazy" class="wp-image-9456 " src="https://media.crictracker.com/media/attachments/Virender-Sehwag.jpg" alt="(Photo Source: AFP)" width="280" height="559" sizes="(max-width: 280px) 100vw, 280px"></a><figcaption id="caption-attachment-9456" class="wp-caption-text">The main contribution came from Virender Sehwag who scored 114 with his century coming from just 81 balls. (Photo Source: AFP)</figcaption>

India had a disastrous 2007 World cup getting eliminated in the group stages itself after loses to Sri Lanka and Bangladesh. But they did score 413/5; the highest ever score in World Cup history against Bermuda.

The main contribution came from Virender Sehwag who scored 114 with his century coming from just 81 balls. Bermuda was no match for the Indian bowlers and were bowled out for just 156 runs and lost the match by 257 runs.

7. Adam Gilchrist 72 balls vs. Sri Lanka Barbados, 2007

<a href="https://media.crictracker.com/media/attachments/2014/11/Adam-Gilchrist.jpeg"><img loading="lazy" class="wp-image-7021 " src="https://media.crictracker.com/media/attachments/Adam-Gilchrist.jpeg" alt="(Photo Source : AFP )" width="367" height="251" sizes="(max-width: 367px) 100vw, 367px"></a><figcaption id="caption-attachment-7021" class="wp-caption-text">He smoked a century in just 72 balls and made 149 runs off 101 balls in the final taking Australia to 281 runs. (Photo Source : AFP )</figcaption>

Adam Gilchrist who had a quite World Cup 2007, decided to explode in the final of the tournament against Sri Lanka. He said that wearing a half cut gold ball in his right glove gave him the much-needed extra grip.

He smoked a century in just 72 balls and made 149 runs off 101 balls in the final taking Australia to 281 runs. Sri Lanka demoralised by the assault on them, they were also hampered by rain and bad light. With no reserve day to continue the final, play was extended well into darkness to finish the match.

Australia won by 53 runs via Duckworth Lewis method and they lifted their 3rd straight World Cup.

6. Kapil Dev 72 balls vs. Zimbabwe Tunbridge Wells, 1983

<a href="https://media.crictracker.com/media/attachments/2014/11/Kapil-Dev.jpeg"><img loading="lazy" class="wp-image-7024 " src="https://media.crictracker.com/media/attachments/Kapil-Dev.jpeg" alt="(Photo Source: Getty Images)" width="393" height="477" sizes="(max-width: 393px) 100vw, 393px"></a><figcaption id="caption-attachment-7024" class="wp-caption-text">India was reduced to 17/5 and in walked Indian captain Kapil Dev. (Photo Source: Getty Images)</figcaption>

This is probably the most famous innings to not have any video footage due to BBC cameramen being on strike on the match day. India met Zimbabwe in a must win match to proceed to the semifinals.

India was reduced to 17/5 and in walked Indian captain Kapil Dev. Kapil went on to play probably the most important innings in India’s World cup history. He scored an unbeaten 175 runs, India’s first ODI century and took India to a more respectable 266 runs with help from Syed Kirmani and Roger Binny. He hit 6 sixes and 16 fours. His century came from just 72 runs.

Zimbabwe couldn’t chase the score and was bundled out for 235 with Kevin Curran scoring 73 runs. India won the match and went on to defeat the mighty West Indies in the final to lift the 1983 World Cup.

5. John Davison 67 balls vs. West Indies Centurion, 2003

<a href="https://media.crictracker.com/media/attachments/2015/01/John-Davison.jpg"><img loading="lazy" class="wp-image-9843 " src="https://media.crictracker.com/media/attachments/John-Davison.jpg" alt="(Photo Source: Associated Press)" width="347" height="501" sizes="(max-width: 347px) 100vw, 347px"></a><figcaption id="caption-attachment-9843" class="wp-caption-text">Davison hit the West Indian fast bowlers to all parts of the ground, inventing, innovating shots. He hit 6 sixes and 8 fours in his 111 runs. (Photo Source: Associated Press)</figcaption>

A surprise entry in the list is that of Canadian John Davison. He played first class cricket in Australia and was the only native professional cricketer in the Canadian team. Canada played West Indies in the 2003 World cup.

Canada batted first and John Davison decided to throw caution to the wind and hit the then fastest World cup century in just 67 balls. Davison hit the West Indian fast bowlers to all parts of the ground, inventing, innovating shots. He hit 6 sixes and 8 fours in his 111 runs. Unfortunately, none of the other batsmen supported him and Canada could only manage 202 runs.

West Indies overhauled that total in just 20 overs with Brian Lara and Wavell Hinds scoring 50s in just 23 and 24 balls respectively.

4. Matthew Hayden 66 balls vs. South Africa St Kitts, 2007

<a href="https://media.crictracker.com/media/attachments/2015/01/Matthew-Hayden.jpg"><img loading="lazy" class="wp-image-9216 " src="https://media.crictracker.com/media/attachments/Matthew-Hayden.jpg" alt="(Photo Source: AFP)" width="336" height="470" sizes="(max-width: 336px) 100vw, 336px"></a><figcaption id="caption-attachment-9216" class="wp-caption-text">Hayden along with Gilchrist tore apart the South African bowling. (Photo Source: AFP)</figcaption>

Matthew Hayden was given the duty of handling the experienced South African pace man Shaun Pollock in this important group match between Australia and South Africa in 2007 World cup.

And he did handle Pollock. Hayden along with Gilchrist tore apart the South African bowling. Both went on ultra-attack mode with Hayden being pretty severe on Shaun Pollock. Matthew Hayden went on to score the fastest World Cup hundred off just 66 balls and with Ricky Ponting’s 91 and Michael Clarke’s 92, took Australia to 377 runs of 50 overs.

South Africa tried to chase the total with De Villiers scoring 92, but in the end they fell short by 83 runs. Shaun Pollock went for 83 runs off his 10 overs and didn’t take a wicket.

3. AB de Villiers 55 balls vs West Indies Sydney, 2015

<a href="https://media.crictracker.com/media/attachments/2014/08/Ab-De-Villiers.jpg"><img loading="lazy" class=" wp-image-7175" src="https://media.crictracker.com/media/attachments/Ab-De-Villiers.jpg" alt="AB de Villiers is the man on fire, a few weeks ago he scored the fastest ODI half-century and also the fastest ODI hundred against the West Indies. (Photo Source: Getty Images)" width="364" height="482" sizes="(max-width: 364px) 100vw, 364px"></a><figcaption id="caption-attachment-7175" class="wp-caption-text">AB de Villiers is the man on fire, a few weeks ago he scored the fastest ODI half-century and also the fastest ODI hundred against the West Indies. (Photo Source: Getty Images)</figcaption>

AB de Villiers is the man on fire, a few weeks ago he scored the fastest ODI half-century and also the fastest ODI hundred against the West Indies. And as South Africa and West Indies locked horns in the ICC Cricket World Cup 2015 he displayed his mettle once again recording the second fastest hundred in world cup history. South Africa were in pain following the heavy defeat they were handed over by India.

A hurt AB de Villiers walked out with clear intentions to ensure after they had batted the West Indies had no chance in the game. At the end of 50 over&#8217;s South Africa had 408-5 on board, with de Villiers contributing 162 off them from just 66 balls. One of the best innings in world cup this saw de Villiers strike 17 boundaries and 8 sixes. He struck the ball at the strike-rate of 245.45, and played only 7 dot balls in his stay which also saw him get dropped twice.

O’Brien smashed the fastest century in World Cup record by making a 100 in just 50 balls. He was finally run out for 113 runs which were laced with 6 huge sixes and 13 fours. Alex Cusack and John Mooney took Ireland past the finish line in what is termed as the greatest chase in World Cup history.

2. Glen Maxwell 51 balls vs Sri Lanka Sydney, 2015

<a href="https://media.crictracker.com/media/attachments/2015/01/Glenn-Maxwell.jpg"><img loading="lazy" class=" wp-image-9399" src="https://media.crictracker.com/media/attachments/Glenn-Maxwell-300x256.jpg" alt="Glenn Maxwell now has the 2nd fastest World Cup hundred.(Photo Source: Getty Images)" width="352" height="300" sizes="(max-width: 352px) 100vw, 352px"></a><figcaption id="caption-attachment-9399" class="wp-caption-text">Glenn Maxwell now has the 2nd fastest World Cup hundred.(Photo Source: Getty Images)</figcaption>

Glen Maxwell has made it into the 90s in ODIs about 5 times but never reached hundred to his dismay. But against Sri Lanka, he not only got a hundred, he got the second fastest hundred in World Cup history. He hit 10 fours and 4 sixes in his blistering century. His way of playing has meant that he mostly got out before reaching the 3 figure mark.

He almost missed the opportunity to record the fastest century because of a leg bye, but he got to his hundred the next ball of Prasanna and celebrated with elan on getting his first ODI hundred.

1. Kevin O’Brien 50 balls vs England Bangalore, 2011

<a href="https://media.crictracker.com/media/attachments/2014/12/Kevin-OBrien-became-the-Hero-of-Ireland-Win.jpg"><img loading="lazy" class="wp-image-8423 " src="https://media.crictracker.com/media/attachments/Kevin-OBrien-became-the-Hero-of-Ireland-Win.jpg" alt="(Photo Source: Getty Images)" width="398" height="262" sizes="(max-width: 398px) 100vw, 398px"></a><figcaption id="caption-attachment-8423" class="wp-caption-text">Ireland was 111 for 5 wickets in 24 overs when Kevin O’Brien walked out to bat. (Photo Source: Getty Images)</figcaption>

England met Ireland in a match that will go down in the history of World Cup as one the most exciting matches of all time.

England batted first and with the help of half centuries from Kevin Pietersen, Jonathan Trott and Ian Bell scored a decent 327 runs at the end of 50 overs. Now this total is hard enough to chase for a top team and no one expected Ireland to chase it, but the Irish gave it their all-knowing they had nothing to lose. Ireland was 111 for 5 wickets in 24 overs when Kevin O’Brien walked out to bat. In the next 60 balls, he single-handedly change the complexion of the match and turned the tide in Ireland’s favor.

O’Brien smashed the fastest century in World Cup record by making a 100 in just 50 balls. He was finally run out for 113 runs which were laced with 6 huge sixes and 13 fours. Alex Cusack and John Mooney took Ireland past the finish line in what is termed as the greatest chase in World Cup history.

<a title="Top 10 Batsman with most centuries in World Cup history" href="http://www.crictracker.com/top-10-batsman-with-most-centuries-in-world-cup-history/" target="_blank">(Also read Most Hundreds in WC)</a>

*All stats updated till 8th March 2015.

10 Fastest centuries in ICC World Cup history: World cup is so tough on the players sometimes that even the best of international players fall to the pressure and struggle to perform at the biggest stage in cricket the<a title="Top 10 players to watch out for in ICC World Cup 2015" href="http://www.crictracker.com/top-10-players-to-watch-out-for-in-icc-world-cup-2015/" target="_blank"> ICC cricket world cup.</a> As ODI cricket with the field restrictions and bowling rules is considered to favour the batsmen thus also referred as the batsmen’s game requires them to be at their very best in every game. All it takes is a one good delivery to get the wicket whereas the batsman has to be at his best all the while he is on the field. Here we have the ten best batsmen who have the record under their name for the 10 fastest hundreds in cricket world cup history.
<h2>10. Brad Hodge 82 balls vs. Netherlands St.Kitts, 2007</h2>
<figure id="attachment_9293" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-9293" class="wp-caption aligncenter" style="max-width: 100%; margin: 0;"><a href="https://media.crictracker.com/media/attachments/2015/01/Clarke-Hodge.jpg"><amp-img class="wp-image-9293 " src="https://media.crictracker.com/media/attachments/Clarke-Hodge.jpg" alt="(Photo Source: AFP)" width="387" height="485" layout="responsive" style="max-width: 100%; margin: 0;"></amp-img></a><figcaption id="caption-attachment-9293" class="wp-caption-text">Hodge hit 7 huge sixes and 6 fours in his whirlwind innings. (Photo Source: AFP)</figcaption></figure>
Australia played Netherlands in a group match and batted first on a flat pitch. Australia made a mammoth 358 runs thanks to a century off 82 balls by Brad Hodge. Hodge hit 7 huge sixes and 6 fours in his whirlwind innings. He was ably supported by Michael Clarke who made an unbeaten 93 runs.
Netherlands managed just 129 runs in reply and lost the match by 229 runs.
<h2>9. Clive Lloyd 82 balls vs. Australia Lord’s, 1975</h2>
<figure id="attachment_9739" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-9739" class="wp-caption aligncenter" style="max-width: 100%; margin: 0;"><a href="https://media.crictracker.com/media/attachments/2015/01/Clive-Lloyd.jpeg"><amp-img class="wp-image-9739 " src="https://media.crictracker.com/media/attachments/Clive-Lloyd.jpeg" alt="(Photo Source: ICC)" width="286" height="421" layout="responsive" style="max-width: 100%; margin: 0;"></amp-img></a><figcaption id="caption-attachment-9739" class="wp-caption-text">Lloyd was dominating the Aussie bowlers. West Indies scored 291 in their allotted 60 overs. (Photo Source: ICC)</figcaption></figure>
Clive Lloyd decided to make the final of the first ever World cup in 1975 should begin with a bang. He did it himself by scoring a scorching century in the final off just 82 deliveries. He was supported by Rohan Kanhai who scored 55 runs and at one point of time, didn’t score a run for 8 overs as Lloyd was dominating the Aussie bowlers. West Indies scored 291 in their allotted 60 overs.
Australia replied in kind and scored 274 runs losing by just 17 runs. The major factor in their loss was the crucial run outs of Greg Chappell, Ian Chappell and Alan Turner by Viv Richards.
<h2>8. Virender Sehwag 81 balls vs. Bermuda Trinidad, 2007</h2>
<figure id="attachment_9456" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-9456" class="wp-caption aligncenter" style="max-width: 100%; margin: 0;"><a href="https://media.crictracker.com/media/attachments/2015/01/Virender-Sehwag.jpg"><amp-img class="wp-image-9456 " src="https://media.crictracker.com/media/attachments/Virender-Sehwag.jpg" alt="(Photo Source: AFP)" width="280" height="559" layout="responsive" style="max-width: 100%; margin: 0;"></amp-img></a><figcaption id="caption-attachment-9456" class="wp-caption-text">The main contribution came from Virender Sehwag who scored 114 with his century coming from just 81 balls. (Photo Source: AFP)</figcaption></figure>
India had a disastrous 2007 World cup getting eliminated in the group stages itself after loses to Sri Lanka and Bangladesh. But they did score 413/5; the highest ever score in World Cup history against Bermuda.
The main contribution came from Virender Sehwag who scored 114 with his century coming from just 81 balls. Bermuda was no match for the Indian bowlers and were bowled out for just 156 runs and lost the match by 257 runs.
<h2>7. Adam Gilchrist 72 balls vs. Sri Lanka Barbados, 2007</h2>
<figure id="attachment_7021" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-7021" class="wp-caption aligncenter" style="max-width: 100%; margin: 0;"><a href="https://media.crictracker.com/media/attachments/2014/11/Adam-Gilchrist.jpeg"><amp-img class="wp-image-7021 " src="https://media.crictracker.com/media/attachments/Adam-Gilchrist.jpeg" alt="(Photo Source : AFP )" width="367" height="251" layout="responsive" style="max-width: 100%; margin: 0;"></amp-img></a><figcaption id="caption-attachment-7021" class="wp-caption-text">He smoked a century in just 72 balls and made 149 runs off 101 balls in the final taking Australia to 281 runs. (Photo Source : AFP )</figcaption></figure>
Adam Gilchrist who had a quite World Cup 2007, decided to explode in the final of the tournament against Sri Lanka. He said that wearing a half cut gold ball in his right glove gave him the much-needed extra grip.
He smoked a century in just 72 balls and made 149 runs off 101 balls in the final taking Australia to 281 runs. Sri Lanka demoralised by the assault on them, they were also hampered by rain and bad light. With no reserve day to continue the final, play was extended well into darkness to finish the match.
Australia won by 53 runs via Duckworth Lewis method and they lifted their 3rd straight World Cup.
<h2>6. Kapil Dev 72 balls vs. Zimbabwe Tunbridge Wells, 1983</h2>
<figure id="attachment_7024" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-7024" class="wp-caption aligncenter" style="max-width: 100%; margin: 0;"><a href="https://media.crictracker.com/media/attachments/2014/11/Kapil-Dev.jpeg"><amp-img class="wp-image-7024 " src="https://media.crictracker.com/media/attachments/Kapil-Dev.jpeg" alt="(Photo Source: Getty Images)" width="393" height="477" layout="responsive" style="max-width: 100%; margin: 0;"></amp-img></a><figcaption id="caption-attachment-7024" class="wp-caption-text">India was reduced to 17/5 and in walked Indian captain Kapil Dev. (Photo Source: Getty Images)</figcaption></figure>
This is probably the most famous innings to not have any video footage due to BBC cameramen being on strike on the match day. India met Zimbabwe in a must win match to proceed to the semifinals.
India was reduced to 17/5 and in walked Indian captain Kapil Dev. Kapil went on to play probably the most important innings in India’s World cup history. He scored an unbeaten 175 runs, India’s first ODI century and took India to a more respectable 266 runs with help from Syed Kirmani and Roger Binny. He hit 6 sixes and 16 fours. His century came from just 72 runs.
Zimbabwe couldn’t chase the score and was bundled out for 235 with Kevin Curran scoring 73 runs. India won the match and went on to defeat the mighty West Indies in the final to lift the 1983 World Cup.
<h2>5. John Davison 67 balls vs. West Indies Centurion, 2003</h2>
<figure id="attachment_9843" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-9843" class="wp-caption aligncenter" style="max-width: 100%; margin: 0;"><a href="https://media.crictracker.com/media/attachments/2015/01/John-Davison.jpg"><amp-img class="wp-image-9843 " src="https://media.crictracker.com/media/attachments/John-Davison.jpg" alt="(Photo Source: Associated Press)" width="347" height="501" layout="responsive" style="max-width: 100%; margin: 0;"></amp-img></a><figcaption id="caption-attachment-9843" class="wp-caption-text">Davison hit the West Indian fast bowlers to all parts of the ground, inventing, innovating shots. He hit 6 sixes and 8 fours in his 111 runs. (Photo Source: Associated Press)</figcaption></figure>
A surprise entry in the list is that of Canadian John Davison. He played first class cricket in Australia and was the only native professional cricketer in the Canadian team. Canada played West Indies in the 2003 World cup.
Canada batted first and John Davison decided to throw caution to the wind and hit the then fastest World cup century in just 67 balls. Davison hit the West Indian fast bowlers to all parts of the ground, inventing, innovating shots. He hit 6 sixes and 8 fours in his 111 runs. Unfortunately, none of the other batsmen supported him and Canada could only manage 202 runs.
West Indies overhauled that total in just 20 overs with Brian Lara and Wavell Hinds scoring 50s in just 23 and 24 balls respectively.
<h2>4. Matthew Hayden 66 balls vs. South Africa St Kitts, 2007</h2>
<figure id="attachment_9216" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-9216" class="wp-caption aligncenter" style="max-width: 100%; margin: 0;"><a href="https://media.crictracker.com/media/attachments/2015/01/Matthew-Hayden.jpg"><amp-img class="wp-image-9216 " src="https://media.crictracker.com/media/attachments/Matthew-Hayden.jpg" alt="(Photo Source: AFP)" width="336" height="470" layout="responsive" style="max-width: 100%; margin: 0;"></amp-img></a><figcaption id="caption-attachment-9216" class="wp-caption-text">Hayden along with Gilchrist tore apart the South African bowling. (Photo Source: AFP)</figcaption></figure>
Matthew Hayden was given the duty of handling the experienced South African pace man Shaun Pollock in this important group match between Australia and South Africa in 2007 World cup.
And he did handle Pollock. Hayden along with Gilchrist tore apart the South African bowling. Both went on ultra-attack mode with Hayden being pretty severe on Shaun Pollock. Matthew Hayden went on to score the fastest World Cup hundred off just 66 balls and with Ricky Ponting’s 91 and Michael Clarke’s 92, took Australia to 377 runs of 50 overs.
South Africa tried to chase the total with De Villiers scoring 92, but in the end they fell short by 83 runs. Shaun Pollock went for 83 runs off his 10 overs and didn’t take a wicket.

3. AB de Villiers 55 balls vs West Indies Sydney, 2015 

<figure id="attachment_7175" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-7175" class="wp-caption aligncenter" style="max-width: 100%; margin: 0;"><a href="https://media.crictracker.com/media/attachments/2014/08/Ab-De-Villiers.jpg"><amp-img class=" wp-image-7175" src="https://media.crictracker.com/media/attachments/Ab-De-Villiers.jpg" alt="AB de Villiers is the man on fire, a few weeks ago he scored the fastest ODI half-century and also the fastest ODI hundred against the West Indies. (Photo Source: Getty Images)" width="364" height="482" layout="responsive" style="max-width: 100%; margin: 0;"></amp-img></a><figcaption id="caption-attachment-7175" class="wp-caption-text">AB de Villiers is the man on fire, a few weeks ago he scored the fastest ODI half-century and also the fastest ODI hundred against the West Indies. (Photo Source: Getty Images)</figcaption></figure>
AB de Villiers is the man on fire, a few weeks ago he scored the fastest ODI half-century and also the fastest ODI hundred against the West Indies. And as South Africa and West Indies locked horns in the ICC Cricket World Cup 2015 he displayed his mettle once again recording the second fastest hundred in world cup history. South Africa were in pain following the heavy defeat they were handed over by India.
A hurt AB de Villiers walked out with clear intentions to ensure after they had batted the West Indies had no chance in the game. At the end of 50 over’s South Africa had 408-5 on board, with de Villiers contributing 162 off them from just 66 balls. One of the best innings in world cup this saw de Villiers strike 17 boundaries and 8 sixes. He struck the ball at the strike-rate of 245.45, and played only 7 dot balls in his stay which also saw him get dropped twice.
&nbsp;
O’Brien smashed the fastest century in World Cup record by making a 100 in just 50 balls. He was finally run out for 113 runs which were laced with 6 huge sixes and 13 fours. Alex Cusack and John Mooney took Ireland past the finish line in what is termed as the greatest chase in World Cup history. 

2. Glen Maxwell 51 balls vs Sri Lanka Sydney, 2015 

<figure id="attachment_9399" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-9399" class="wp-caption aligncenter" style="max-width: 100%; margin: 0;"><a href="https://media.crictracker.com/media/attachments/2015/01/Glenn-Maxwell.jpg"><amp-img class=" wp-image-9399" src="https://media.crictracker.com/media/attachments/Glenn-Maxwell-300x256.jpg" alt="Glenn Maxwell now has the 2nd fastest World Cup hundred.(Photo Source: Getty Images)" width="352" height="300" layout="responsive" style="max-width: 100%; margin: 0;"></amp-img></a><figcaption id="caption-attachment-9399" class="wp-caption-text">Glenn Maxwell now has the 2nd fastest World Cup hundred.(Photo Source: Getty Images)</figcaption></figure>
Glen Maxwell has made it into the 90s in ODIs about 5 times but never reached hundred to his dismay. But against Sri Lanka, he not only got a hundred, he got the second fastest hundred in World Cup history. He hit 10 fours and 4 sixes in his blistering century. His way of playing has meant that he mostly got out before reaching the 3 figure mark.
He almost missed the opportunity to record the fastest century because of a leg bye, but he got to his hundred the next ball of Prasanna and celebrated with elan on getting his first ODI hundred. 

<h2>1. Kevin O’Brien 50 balls vs England Bangalore, 2011</h2>
<figure id="attachment_8423" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-8423" class="wp-caption aligncenter" style="max-width: 100%; margin: 0;"><a href="https://media.crictracker.com/media/attachments/2014/12/Kevin-OBrien-became-the-Hero-of-Ireland-Win.jpg"><amp-img class="wp-image-8423 " src="https://media.crictracker.com/media/attachments/Kevin-OBrien-became-the-Hero-of-Ireland-Win.jpg" alt="(Photo Source: Getty Images)" width="398" height="262" layout="responsive" style="max-width: 100%; margin: 0;"></amp-img></a><figcaption id="caption-attachment-8423" class="wp-caption-text">Ireland was 111 for 5 wickets in 24 overs when Kevin O’Brien walked out to bat. (Photo Source: Getty Images)</figcaption></figure>
England met Ireland in a match that will go down in the history of World Cup as one the most exciting matches of all time.
England batted first and with the help of half centuries from Kevin Pietersen, Jonathan Trott and Ian Bell scored a decent 327 runs at the end of 50 overs. Now this total is hard enough to chase for a top team and no one expected Ireland to chase it, but the Irish gave it their all-knowing they had nothing to lose. 
Ireland was 111 for 5 wickets in 24 overs when Kevin O’Brien walked out to bat. In the next 60 balls, he single-handedly change the complexion of the match and turned the tide in Ireland’s favor.
O’Brien smashed the fastest century in World Cup record by making a 100 in just 50 balls. He was finally run out for 113 runs which were laced with 6 huge sixes and 13 fours. Alex Cusack and John Mooney took Ireland past the finish line in what is termed as the greatest chase in World Cup history.
<a title="Top 10 Batsman with most centuries in World Cup history" href="http://www.crictracker.com/top-10-batsman-with-most-centuries-in-world-cup-history/" target="_blank">(Also read Most Hundreds in WC)</a>
*All stats updated till 8th March 2015.

10 Fastest centuries in ICC World Cup history: World cup is so tough on the players sometimes that even the best of international players fall to the pressure and struggle to perform at the biggest stage in cricket the<a title="Top 10 players to watch out for in ICC World Cup 2015" href="http://www.crictracker.com/top-10-players-to-watch-out-for-in-icc-world-cup-2015/" target="_blank"> ICC cricket world cup.</a> As ODI cricket with the field restrictions and bowling rules is considered to favour the batsmen thus also referred as the batsmen&#8217;s game requires them to be at their very best in every game. All it takes is a one good delivery to get the wicket whereas the batsman has to be at his best all the while he is on the field. Here we have the ten best batsmen who have the record under their name for the 10 fastest hundreds in cricket world cup history.
<h2>10. Brad Hodge 82 balls vs. Netherlands St.Kitts, 2007</h2>
<figure id="attachment_9293" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-9293" style="width: 387px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><a href="https://media.crictracker.com/media/attachments/2015/01/Clarke-Hodge.jpg"><img loading="lazy" class="wp-image-9293 " src="https://media.crictracker.com/media/attachments/Clarke-Hodge.jpg" alt="(Photo Source: AFP)" width="387" height="485" sizes="(max-width: 387px) 100vw, 387px"></a><figcaption id="caption-attachment-9293" class="wp-caption-text">Hodge hit 7 huge sixes and 6 fours in his whirlwind innings. (Photo Source: AFP)</figcaption></figure>
Australia played Netherlands in a group match and batted first on a flat pitch. Australia made a mammoth 358 runs thanks to a century off 82 balls by Brad Hodge. Hodge hit 7 huge sixes and 6 fours in his whirlwind innings. He was ably supported by Michael Clarke who made an unbeaten 93 runs.
Netherlands managed just 129 runs in reply and lost the match by 229 runs.
<h2>9. Clive Lloyd 82 balls vs. Australia Lord’s, 1975</h2>
<figure id="attachment_9739" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-9739" style="width: 286px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><a href="https://media.crictracker.com/media/attachments/2015/01/Clive-Lloyd.jpeg"><img loading="lazy" class="wp-image-9739 " src="https://media.crictracker.com/media/attachments/Clive-Lloyd.jpeg" alt="(Photo Source: ICC)" width="286" height="421" sizes="(max-width: 286px) 100vw, 286px"></a><figcaption id="caption-attachment-9739" class="wp-caption-text">Lloyd was dominating the Aussie bowlers. West Indies scored 291 in their allotted 60 overs. (Photo Source: ICC)</figcaption></figure>
Clive Lloyd decided to make the final of the first ever World cup in 1975 should begin with a bang. He did it himself by scoring a scorching century in the final off just 82 deliveries. He was supported by Rohan Kanhai who scored 55 runs and at one point of time, didn’t score a run for 8 overs as Lloyd was dominating the Aussie bowlers. West Indies scored 291 in their allotted 60 overs.
Australia replied in kind and scored 274 runs losing by just 17 runs. The major factor in their loss was the crucial run outs of Greg Chappell, Ian Chappell and Alan Turner by Viv Richards.
<h2>8. Virender Sehwag 81 balls vs. Bermuda Trinidad, 2007</h2>
<figure id="attachment_9456" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-9456" style="width: 280px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><a href="https://media.crictracker.com/media/attachments/2015/01/Virender-Sehwag.jpg"><img loading="lazy" class="wp-image-9456 " src="https://media.crictracker.com/media/attachments/Virender-Sehwag.jpg" alt="(Photo Source: AFP)" width="280" height="559" sizes="(max-width: 280px) 100vw, 280px"></a><figcaption id="caption-attachment-9456" class="wp-caption-text">The main contribution came from Virender Sehwag who scored 114 with his century coming from just 81 balls. (Photo Source: AFP)</figcaption></figure>
India had a disastrous 2007 World cup getting eliminated in the group stages itself after loses to Sri Lanka and Bangladesh. But they did score 413/5; the highest ever score in World Cup history against Bermuda.
The main contribution came from Virender Sehwag who scored 114 with his century coming from just 81 balls. Bermuda was no match for the Indian bowlers and were bowled out for just 156 runs and lost the match by 257 runs.
<h2>7. Adam Gilchrist 72 balls vs. Sri Lanka Barbados, 2007</h2>
<figure id="attachment_7021" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-7021" style="width: 367px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><a href="https://media.crictracker.com/media/attachments/2014/11/Adam-Gilchrist.jpeg"><img loading="lazy" class="wp-image-7021 " src="https://media.crictracker.com/media/attachments/Adam-Gilchrist.jpeg" alt="(Photo Source : AFP )" width="367" height="251" sizes="(max-width: 367px) 100vw, 367px"></a><figcaption id="caption-attachment-7021" class="wp-caption-text">He smoked a century in just 72 balls and made 149 runs off 101 balls in the final taking Australia to 281 runs. (Photo Source : AFP )</figcaption></figure>
Adam Gilchrist who had a quite World Cup 2007, decided to explode in the final of the tournament against Sri Lanka. He said that wearing a half cut gold ball in his right glove gave him the much-needed extra grip.
He smoked a century in just 72 balls and made 149 runs off 101 balls in the final taking Australia to 281 runs. Sri Lanka demoralised by the assault on them, they were also hampered by rain and bad light. With no reserve day to continue the final, play was extended well into darkness to finish the match.
Australia won by 53 runs via Duckworth Lewis method and they lifted their 3rd straight World Cup.
<h2>6. Kapil Dev 72 balls vs. Zimbabwe Tunbridge Wells, 1983</h2>
<figure id="attachment_7024" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-7024" style="width: 393px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><a href="https://media.crictracker.com/media/attachments/2014/11/Kapil-Dev.jpeg"><img loading="lazy" class="wp-image-7024 " src="https://media.crictracker.com/media/attachments/Kapil-Dev.jpeg" alt="(Photo Source: Getty Images)" width="393" height="477" sizes="(max-width: 393px) 100vw, 393px"></a><figcaption id="caption-attachment-7024" class="wp-caption-text">India was reduced to 17/5 and in walked Indian captain Kapil Dev. (Photo Source: Getty Images)</figcaption></figure>
This is probably the most famous innings to not have any video footage due to BBC cameramen being on strike on the match day. India met Zimbabwe in a must win match to proceed to the semifinals.
India was reduced to 17/5 and in walked Indian captain Kapil Dev. Kapil went on to play probably the most important innings in India’s World cup history. He scored an unbeaten 175 runs, India’s first ODI century and took India to a more respectable 266 runs with help from Syed Kirmani and Roger Binny. He hit 6 sixes and 16 fours. His century came from just 72 runs.
Zimbabwe couldn’t chase the score and was bundled out for 235 with Kevin Curran scoring 73 runs. India won the match and went on to defeat the mighty West Indies in the final to lift the 1983 World Cup.
<h2>5. John Davison 67 balls vs. West Indies Centurion, 2003</h2>
<figure id="attachment_9843" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-9843" style="width: 347px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><a href="https://media.crictracker.com/media/attachments/2015/01/John-Davison.jpg"><img loading="lazy" class="wp-image-9843 " src="https://media.crictracker.com/media/attachments/John-Davison.jpg" alt="(Photo Source: Associated Press)" width="347" height="501" sizes="(max-width: 347px) 100vw, 347px"></a><figcaption id="caption-attachment-9843" class="wp-caption-text">Davison hit the West Indian fast bowlers to all parts of the ground, inventing, innovating shots. He hit 6 sixes and 8 fours in his 111 runs. (Photo Source: Associated Press)</figcaption></figure>
A surprise entry in the list is that of Canadian John Davison. He played first class cricket in Australia and was the only native professional cricketer in the Canadian team. Canada played West Indies in the 2003 World cup.
Canada batted first and John Davison decided to throw caution to the wind and hit the then fastest World cup century in just 67 balls. Davison hit the West Indian fast bowlers to all parts of the ground, inventing, innovating shots. He hit 6 sixes and 8 fours in his 111 runs. Unfortunately, none of the other batsmen supported him and Canada could only manage 202 runs.
West Indies overhauled that total in just 20 overs with Brian Lara and Wavell Hinds scoring 50s in just 23 and 24 balls respectively.
<h2>4. Matthew Hayden 66 balls vs. South Africa St Kitts, 2007</h2>
<figure id="attachment_9216" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-9216" style="width: 336px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><a href="https://media.crictracker.com/media/attachments/2015/01/Matthew-Hayden.jpg"><img loading="lazy" class="wp-image-9216 " src="https://media.crictracker.com/media/attachments/Matthew-Hayden.jpg" alt="(Photo Source: AFP)" width="336" height="470" sizes="(max-width: 336px) 100vw, 336px"></a><figcaption id="caption-attachment-9216" class="wp-caption-text">Hayden along with Gilchrist tore apart the South African bowling. (Photo Source: AFP)</figcaption></figure>
Matthew Hayden was given the duty of handling the experienced South African pace man Shaun Pollock in this important group match between Australia and South Africa in 2007 World cup.
And he did handle Pollock. Hayden along with Gilchrist tore apart the South African bowling. Both went on ultra-attack mode with Hayden being pretty severe on Shaun Pollock. Matthew Hayden went on to score the fastest World Cup hundred off just 66 balls and with Ricky Ponting’s 91 and Michael Clarke’s 92, took Australia to 377 runs of 50 overs.
South Africa tried to chase the total with De Villiers scoring 92, but in the end they fell short by 83 runs. Shaun Pollock went for 83 runs off his 10 overs and didn’t take a wicket.

3. AB de Villiers 55 balls vs West Indies Sydney, 2015 

<figure id="attachment_7175" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-7175" style="width: 364px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><a href="https://media.crictracker.com/media/attachments/2014/08/Ab-De-Villiers.jpg"><img loading="lazy" class=" wp-image-7175" src="https://media.crictracker.com/media/attachments/Ab-De-Villiers.jpg" alt="AB de Villiers is the man on fire, a few weeks ago he scored the fastest ODI half-century and also the fastest ODI hundred against the West Indies. (Photo Source: Getty Images)" width="364" height="482" sizes="(max-width: 364px) 100vw, 364px"></a><figcaption id="caption-attachment-7175" class="wp-caption-text">AB de Villiers is the man on fire, a few weeks ago he scored the fastest ODI half-century and also the fastest ODI hundred against the West Indies. (Photo Source: Getty Images)</figcaption></figure>
AB de Villiers is the man on fire, a few weeks ago he scored the fastest ODI half-century and also the fastest ODI hundred against the West Indies. And as South Africa and West Indies locked horns in the ICC Cricket World Cup 2015 he displayed his mettle once again recording the second fastest hundred in world cup history. South Africa were in pain following the heavy defeat they were handed over by India.
A hurt AB de Villiers walked out with clear intentions to ensure after they had batted the West Indies had no chance in the game. At the end of 50 over&#8217;s South Africa had 408-5 on board, with de Villiers contributing 162 off them from just 66 balls. One of the best innings in world cup this saw de Villiers strike 17 boundaries and 8 sixes. He struck the ball at the strike-rate of 245.45, and played only 7 dot balls in his stay which also saw him get dropped twice.
&nbsp;
O’Brien smashed the fastest century in World Cup record by making a 100 in just 50 balls. He was finally run out for 113 runs which were laced with 6 huge sixes and 13 fours. Alex Cusack and John Mooney took Ireland past the finish line in what is termed as the greatest chase in World Cup history. 

2. Glen Maxwell 51 balls vs Sri Lanka Sydney, 2015 

<figure id="attachment_9399" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-9399" style="width: 352px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><a href="https://media.crictracker.com/media/attachments/2015/01/Glenn-Maxwell.jpg"><img loading="lazy" class=" wp-image-9399" src="https://media.crictracker.com/media/attachments/Glenn-Maxwell-300x256.jpg" alt="Glenn Maxwell now has the 2nd fastest World Cup hundred.(Photo Source: Getty Images)" width="352" height="300" sizes="(max-width: 352px) 100vw, 352px"></a><figcaption id="caption-attachment-9399" class="wp-caption-text">Glenn Maxwell now has the 2nd fastest World Cup hundred.(Photo Source: Getty Images)</figcaption></figure>
Glen Maxwell has made it into the 90s in ODIs about 5 times but never reached hundred to his dismay. But against Sri Lanka, he not only got a hundred, he got the second fastest hundred in World Cup history. He hit 10 fours and 4 sixes in his blistering century. His way of playing has meant that he mostly got out before reaching the 3 figure mark.
He almost missed the opportunity to record the fastest century because of a leg bye, but he got to his hundred the next ball of Prasanna and celebrated with elan on getting his first ODI hundred. 

<h2>1. Kevin O’Brien 50 balls vs England Bangalore, 2011</h2>
<figure id="attachment_8423" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-8423" style="width: 398px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><a href="https://media.crictracker.com/media/attachments/2014/12/Kevin-OBrien-became-the-Hero-of-Ireland-Win.jpg"><img loading="lazy" class="wp-image-8423 " src="https://media.crictracker.com/media/attachments/Kevin-OBrien-became-the-Hero-of-Ireland-Win.jpg" alt="(Photo Source: Getty Images)" width="398" height="262" sizes="(max-width: 398px) 100vw, 398px"></a><figcaption id="caption-attachment-8423" class="wp-caption-text">Ireland was 111 for 5 wickets in 24 overs when Kevin O’Brien walked out to bat. (Photo Source: Getty Images)</figcaption></figure>
England met Ireland in a match that will go down in the history of World Cup as one the most exciting matches of all time.
England batted first and with the help of half centuries from Kevin Pietersen, Jonathan Trott and Ian Bell scored a decent 327 runs at the end of 50 overs. Now this total is hard enough to chase for a top team and no one expected Ireland to chase it, but the Irish gave it their all-knowing they had nothing to lose. 
Ireland was 111 for 5 wickets in 24 overs when Kevin O’Brien walked out to bat. In the next 60 balls, he single-handedly change the complexion of the match and turned the tide in Ireland’s favor.
O’Brien smashed the fastest century in World Cup record by making a 100 in just 50 balls. He was finally run out for 113 runs which were laced with 6 huge sixes and 13 fours. Alex Cusack and John Mooney took Ireland past the finish line in what is termed as the greatest chase in World Cup history.
<a title="Top 10 Batsman with most centuries in World Cup history" href="http://www.crictracker.com/top-10-batsman-with-most-centuries-in-world-cup-history/" target="_blank">(Also read Most Hundreds in WC)</a>
*All stats updated till 8th March 2015.

10 Fastest centuries in ICC World Cup history

10 Fastest centuries in ICC World Cup history: World cup is so tough on the players sometimes that even the best of international players fall to the pressure and struggle to perform at the biggest stage in cricket the ICC cricket world cup.