File photo of record-breaker Sahil Chauhan
In a historic moment for T20 cricket, Sahil Chauhan, an Indian-origin player representing Estonia, shattered records with an astonishing 27-ball century. This feat, accomplished against Cyprus in Episkopi, not only eclipsed the previous fastest T20I hundred but also redefined the benchmarks of power-hitting in the format.
Fastest Century in T20 History
Chauhan’s record-breaking performance came just months after Namibia’s Jan-Nicol Loftie Eaton set the bar with a 33-ball ton. On Monday, Chauhan’s blistering innings outpaced this milestone, overshadowing the 30-ball century set by Chris Gayle in the IPL 2013. Chauhan’s remarkable century included an incredible 18 sixes, setting a new record for the most sixes in a men’s T20I innings.
Two matches were played on the opening day of the six-match bilateral series, with Estonia triumphing in both. Despite a shaky start in the first game, where Chauhan was dismissed for a first-ball duck, Estonia managed to chase down Cyprus’ 195 for 7. In the second match, Cyprus set a target of 191 for 7, but Estonia, led by Chauhan’s extraordinary innings, chased it down in just 13 overs.
Chauhan’s Explosive Innings
Chauhan walked in with Estonia at a precarious 9 for 2. He immediately took control, dismantling the Cyprus bowling attack with ease. His 144* off just 41 balls came at an astounding strike rate of 351.21. This knock included six boundaries and 18 massive sixes, a feat that outshined previous records held by Afghanistan’s Hazratullah Zazai and New Zealand’s Finn Allen, who had each hit 16 sixes in an innings.
Chauhan’s historic knock was a display of sheer power and precision. His ability to clear the boundaries with such regularity left the opposition in disarray and cricket fans in awe. The innings not only set new records but also highlighted Chauhan’s potential as a formidable force in T20 cricket.
Estonia Leads the Series
The bilateral series between Estonia and Cyprus saw Estonia taking a commanding 2-0 lead. In the first game of the double-header, Estonia chased down a target of 196 with three balls and five wickets to spare. Despite his earlier golden duck, Chauhan’s second-game heroics ensured Estonia’s dominance in the series.
The series now heads into its third match, with Estonia looking to maintain their winning streak and Cyprus aiming to bounce back. Chauhan’s record-breaking performance has set the stage for an exciting series, drawing attention to emerging talents in international cricket.
A New Era of T20 Cricket
Chauhan’s 27-ball century has not only etched his name in the record books but also signaled a new era in T20 cricket. His ability to accelerate from the onset and maintain an extraordinary strike rate throughout his innings has redefined the expectations of a T20 batsman. This performance will undoubtedly inspire upcoming cricketers to push the boundaries and strive for excellence in the shortest format of the game.
As the series progresses, all eyes will be on Sahil Chauhan and his ability to replicate such performances. His record-breaking innings serves as a testament to the evolving nature of T20 cricket, where boundaries are redefined, and records are meant to be broken.
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