IPL 2024: RCB's Will Jacks broke this record of Chris Gayle today, find details here
Xtra Time Web Desk: In a spectacular display of batting prowess, Royal Challengers Bengaluru's all-rounder Will Jacks stunned the cricket world by achieving the fastest century in IPL history against Gujarat Titans . Initially slow in his innings, Jacks reached his half-century steadily before unleashing an unparalleled acceleration, reaching the century mark from just 41 deliveries.
Jacks' incredible feat shattered the previous record held by the legendary Chris Gayle, who took 13 balls to score a century after reaching his fifty back in 2013, playing for RCB against Pune Warriors India. Gayle's innings went down in history as he went on to amass an unbeaten 175 runs, marking the highest individual score in T20 cricket.
Read More: IPL 2024: Virat Kohli fires back at critics over strike rate concerns after Stellar half century
The young English cricketer's remarkable performance not only secured him the fifth-fastest century in IPL history but also earned him the distinction of achieving the fastest century by an England batter in the league's history. This feat surpassed the previous record set by Jonny Bairstow of Punjab Kings (PBKS), who reached a century against Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in a record-breaking run chase at Eden Gardens on April 26.
Stunning Partnership Sets Records in IPL:
Jacks' breathtaking century stands as a testament to his exceptional talent and adds another chapter to the rich history of the IPL, showcasing the league's ability to produce moments of sheer brilliance on the cricketing stage.
In a record-breaking partnership, Will Jacks reached his half-century with a six in the 15th over, then proceeded to hit Mohit Sharma for two more sixes and a four. Against Rashid Khan, Jacks smashed four sixes and a four in just the second ball he faced. Kohli was left stunned by Jacks' six-hitting spree as he celebrated his partner's century. Jacks' unbeaten 41-ball 100, featuring five fours and 10 sixes, fueled a remarkable 166-run partnership with Kohli, setting a new record against GT.
Jacks explains his acceleration:
“Amazing feeling right now. Faf [Du Plessis] and Virat got us off to a very good start. I struggled early on, but Virat kept his intensity up and gave me the chance to find my rhythm. Once we had the time-out, we said, "let's get two really good overs here and we win the game." Once that happened, I just kept going and amazing feeling right now. I was trying to be positive (against spin early on), was just struggling. I was trying to overhit the ball, probably little bit tensed. Once I got one away off Mohit, I relaxed, got into my innings and then just trusted myself. Next game, hopefully I do that earlier,” Jacks who was adjudged ‘Player of the match’ said in the post-match presentation.
