In the world of cricket, scoring a century in One Day Internationals (ODIs) is a significant achievement, showcasing a player’s skill, temperament, and ability to perform under pressure. While many cricketers achieve this milestone, doing so at a young age is particularly impressive. In this article, we will explore the youngest players to score an ODI hundred, highlighting their achievements and contributions to the game.
Achieving an ODI hundred requires a blend of technical skill, mental toughness, and the ability to handle pressure. When young cricketers accomplish this feat, it signifies their exceptional talent and potential for a bright future in cricket. Let’s delve into the stories of these young prodigies who have made history by scoring ODI centuries at a tender age.
Top 5 Youngest Players to Score an ODI Hundred
1. Shahid Afridi (Pakistan)
Age: 16 years and 217 days
Achievement Date: October 4, 1996
Against: Sri Lanka
Shahid Afridi, famously known as “Boom Boom Afridi,” holds the record for the youngest player to score an ODI hundred. At just 16 years and 217 days old, Afridi smashed a scintillating 102 runs off 37 balls against Sri Lanka. His explosive innings included 11 sixes, setting a new record for the fastest ODI century at that time.
2. Usman Ghani (Afghanistan)
Age: 17 years and 242 days
Achievement Date: July 14, 2014
Against: Zimbabwe
Usman Ghani of Afghanistan is the second youngest player to score an ODI century. At 17 years and 242 days old, he scored 118 runs against Zimbabwe. Ghani’s innings was a testament to his composure and skill, helping Afghanistan secure a memorable victory.
3. Imran Nazir (Pakistan)
Age: 18 years and 121 days
Achievement Date: April 21, 2000
Against: Sri Lanka
Imran Nazir, known for his aggressive batting style, scored his first ODI hundred at the age of 18 years and 121 days. He achieved this milestone against Sri Lanka, scoring 105 runs. Nazir’s innings was characterized by powerful strokes and fearless batting.
4. Sachin Tendulkar (India)
Age: 18 years and 186 days
Achievement Date: September 9, 1994
Against: Australia
Sachin Tendulkar, widely regarded as one of the greatest cricketers of all time, scored his first ODI century at 18 years and 186 days. His unbeaten 110 against Australia in Colombo marked the beginning of a legendary career that saw him become the highest run-scorer in ODIs.
5. Saleem Elahi (Pakistan)
Age: 18 years and 312 days
Achievement Date: September 29, 1995
Against: Sri Lanka
Saleem Elahi made an unforgettable debut by scoring an ODI century at the age of 18 years and 312 days. He scored 102* against Sri Lanka, becoming the youngest player to score a century on debut. His composed innings helped Pakistan secure a victory in that match.
Read More About-Fastest Players to Score 5000 ODI Runs
Youngest Players to Score an ODI Hundred
|
Rank |
Player |
Country |
Age (Years) |
Achievement Date |
Opponent |
Runs Scored |
|
1 |
Shahid Afridi |
Pakistan |
16 years, 217 days |
October 4, 1996 |
Sri Lanka |
102 (37 balls) |
|
2 |
Usman Ghani |
Afghanistan |
17 years, 242 days |
July 14, 2014 |
Zimbabwe |
118 |
|
3 |
Imran Nazir |
Pakistan |
18 years, 121 days |
April 21, 2000 |
Sri Lanka |
105 |
|
4 |
Sachin Tendulkar |
India |
18 years, 186 days |
September 9, 1994 |
Australia |
110* |
|
5 |
Saleem Elahi |
Pakistan |
18 years, 312 days |
September 29, 1995 |
Sri Lanka |
102* |
The youngest players to score ODI hundreds have demonstrated exceptional talent and potential. Their achievements at such young ages highlight their dedication, skill, and passion for the game. As they continue to evolve and mature, these players are likely to make even greater contributions to cricket. Their stories inspire aspiring cricketers to aim high and believe in their abilities.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q.1 Who is the youngest player to score an ODI hundred?
Shahid Afridi is the youngest player to score an ODI hundred, achieving this milestone at 16 years and 217 days old.
Q.2 How many players have scored an ODI century before turning 18?
As of now, three players (Shahid Afridi, Usman Ghani, and Imran Nazir) have scored an ODI century before turning 18.
Q.3 Which Indian player is among the youngest to score an ODI hundred?
Sachin Tendulkar is the youngest Indian player to score an ODI hundred, achieving it at 18 years and 186 days.
Q.4 Who is the youngest player to score a century on their ODI debut?
Saleem Elahi is the youngest player to score a century on his ODI debut, scoring 102* at 18 years and 312 days.
