In an extraordinary display of power-hitting, Estonia’s Sandeep Chauhan etched his name into the record books by smashing the fastest-ever century in Men’s T20 International (T20I) history, reaching the milestone off just 27 balls. The 32-year-old’s scintillating knock of 144* off 41 deliveries led Estonia to a commanding victory over Cyprus, successfully chasing down a target of 191/7.
Chauhan’s innings was nothing short of spectacular as he tore apart the Cyprus bowling attack. The Estonia number four batsman struck 24 boundaries, including a record-breaking 18 sixes, surpassing the previous record of 16 sixes in a single Men’s T20I innings held jointly by Afghanistan’s Hazratullah Zazai and New Zealand’s Finn Allen. His extraordinary strike rate of 351.21 left spectators and opponents alike in awe.
Chauhan’s remarkable century bettered the previous fastest century record in Men’s T20I, set by Namibia’s Jan Nicol Loftie-Eaton in February of this year, by a full six deliveries. Loftie-Eaton had achieved his century in 33 balls, a record that now stands second to Chauhan’s 27-ball blitz.
The match was the second of a six-match series in Cyprus, and Chauhan’s heroics have given Estonia a 2-0 lead in the series. In the first match of Monday’s double-header, Estonia chased down a target of 196 with three balls and five wickets to spare, setting the stage for Chauhan’s historic performance in the second game.
The Estonian side’s chase of 191/7 was methodical yet aggressive, with Chauhan leading the charge from the front. His innings was a masterclass in T20 cricket, showcasing not just brute strength but also precision and timing. The Cypriot bowlers had no answers to Chauhan’s onslaught as he sent ball after ball sailing over the boundary.
This record-breaking innings has not only propelled Estonia to a series lead but has also highlighted the growing competitiveness and talent in associate nations’ cricket. Chauhan’s performance will be remembered as one of the greatest in T20I history, setting a new benchmark for future generations.
As the series continues, all eyes will be on Chauhan and his Estonian teammates to see if they can maintain their winning momentum and secure a series victory. For now, though, Chauhan’s name will be synonymous with one of the most extraordinary feats in the history of T20 cricket.
