The Indian Premier League (IPL) has long been a stage where raw talent is polished into brilliance, offering players the chance to shine under the spotlight. It has consistently unearthed exceptional cricketers, underlining the league's immense impact on the sport. Whether it’s a bowler or a batter, every emerging player aims to make a mark, hoping to fulfill the dream of representing their country at the international level.

Over the years, the IPL has given rise to some of the finest batters the game has seen. Their talent, skill, and ability to perform under pressure have not only elevated the league’s standard but also captured the imagination of cricket fans worldwide. With their creative strokes and distinct playing styles, these batters have significantly influenced the modern game. In this article, we take a look at the top 5 fastest century-makers in IPL history—players who turned the game on its head with their explosive performances.

Read More: Who is Priyansh Arya, fastest uncapped Indian to score IPL century

5. Priyansh Arya

The young and dynamic batter from Punjab Kings delivered a stunning 39-ball century against Chennai Super Kings, standing firm against a challenging bowling attack. In his explosive knock, Priyansh hit 7 fours and an impressive 9 massive sixes. After a few quiet outings earlier in the tournament, the pressure was mounting on him to perform — and he responded in style. This powerful inning was well worth the wait, as he took on seasoned spinners and handled the pacers with confidence, proving that he’s ready for the big stage. His performance has instilled hope and shown that he can be a dependable batter for the team.

4. Travis Head

Australian opener Travis Head is renowned for his explosive batting style, often clearing the boundary with ease. In a memorable match last year against Royal Challengers Bangalore at the Chinnaswamy Stadium, he delivered one of his most destructive performances. After Sunrisers Hyderabad won the toss and opted to bat first, Head unleashed a brutal assault on the RCB bowlers, sending the ball to all parts of the ground. His powerful knock included 9 fours and 8 sixes, culminating in a blistering 39-ball century that left RCB reeling and completely shifted the momentum in SRH’s favour.

3. David Miller

South African left-handed batter David Miller is widely known for his explosive and game-changing batting. In a 2013 clash between Punjab Kings and Royal Challengers Bangalore, RCB posted a challenging total of 190 while batting first. Punjab’s chase seemed shaky after losing a few early wickets, but Miller turned the tide with his fearless stroke play. While others struggled to time the ball, Miller dominated the bowling attack with ease. He took control of the chase and powered his way to victory with 8 boundaries and 7 towering sixes, finishing the match in style that once appeared out of reach for Punjab.

2. Yusuf Pathan

Yusuf Pathan, known for his explosive right-handed batting, played a memorable knock for the Rajasthan Royals in 2010 during a high-scoring encounter against the Mumbai Indians. MI had set a formidable target of 212 runs, thanks to strong performances from their top-order batters. Rajasthan’s chase started on a shaky note, losing early wickets and finding themselves in a tough spot. However, Yusuf Pathan turned the game on its head with a blistering counterattack. He launched into the MI bowlers with fearless hitting, smashing 8 sixes and 9 boundaries on his way to a 37-ball century. Although Rajasthan Royals narrowly lost the match by just 4 runs, Pathan’s explosive innings remain one of the standout performances in IPL history.

1. Chris Gayle

West Indies powerhouse Chris Gayle delivered one of the most iconic innings in IPL history during a match between Royal Challengers Bangalore and Pune Warriors India. After winning the toss, Bangalore opted to bat first, and what followed was pure carnage. Gayle unleashed a brutal assault on the opposition bowlers, scoring an unbeaten 175 runs — a record that still stands today. His innings included a staggering 17 sixes and 13 fours, leaving the Pune bowlers with no answers. It remains one of the most unforgettable knocks in T20 cricket.