The T20 World Cup has always been a stage where cricketing legends are born and unforgettable moments are created. As the ninth edition of the T20 World Cup kicks off on June 2 with 20 teams vying for supremacy in the West Indies and the USA. It’s a great time to look back at some of the most electrifying batting performances that have defined this prestigious tournament.

From Brendon McCullum’s record-breaking heroics to Chris Gayle’s explosive innings, we’ve seen it all. These unforgettable knocks have had fans on their feet, cheering and marveling as records were shattered and cricket history was made.

Here’s a look at the top five highest individual scores in ICC Men’s T20 World Cup history.

1. Brendon McCullum – 123 vs Bangladesh, 2012

Brendon McCullum’s blistering 123 against Bangladesh in Pallekele during the 2012 T20 World Cup remains the highest individual score in T20 World Cup history. McCullum’s 58-ball knock was a masterclass in destructive batting, highlighted by 11 fours and 7 sixes.

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His innings led New Zealand to a commanding total of 191/3 and set up a comfortable victory as they restricted Bangladesh to 132/8. McCullum’s ability to dominate from the outset and maintain an aggressive pace throughout was key to his success. This knock was prime example of how a single explosive performance can swing the momentum in T20 cricket.

2. Chris Gayle – 117 vs South Africa, 2007

Chris Gayle’s 117 against South Africa in the inaugural T20 World Cup in 2007 was a historic moment. This innings, the first century in T20 World Cup history, was a display of brute force and flawless execution. Gayle’s knock came off 57 balls, featuring 7 fours and 10 towering sixes.

This was the first-ever century in T20 World Cup history, and it was a high-stakes match against the host nation. Gayle’s explosive hitting helped West Indies to post 205/6. Although West Indies lost the match as South Africa successfully chased the total. Gayle’s innings set the standard for future T20 batting, emphasizing the dramatic impact of aggressive play in this format.

3. Alex Hales – 116* vs Sri Lanka, 2014

Facing Sri Lanka in a do-or-die match in Chattogram, Alex Hales produced one of the most memorable innings in T20 World Cup history. Chasing 190, England was in dire straits at 0/2. Hales, however, remained unfazed, crafting an unbeaten 116 off 64 balls.

His innings included 11 fours and 6 sixes, showcasing a controlled aggression that guided England to a thrilling victory with just four balls to spare. Hales took England from an abysmal position to overhaul Sri Lanka’s total of 189 with just four balls to spare.

This innings is often cited as one of the great T20 World Cup innings for its timing and the sheer will to carry his team across the line under immense pressure. Hales’ performance is often remembered for his sheer determination and timing, lifting England from the brink of elimination.

4. Ahmed Shehzad – 111* vs Bangladesh, 2014

Ahmed Shehzad’s unbeaten 111 against Bangladesh in Mirpur during the 2014 T20 World Cup was a blend of elegance and aggression. Pakistan needed a substantial total, and Shehzad delivered, scoring his runs off 62 balls with 10 fours and 5 sixes. His innings helped Pakistan post a daunting 191.

The innings were crucial as they not only helped Pakistan secure a significant victory by 50 runs but also boosted their net run rate. Shehzad’s innings stood out for its timing and the way he handled the spinners and pacers alike. His ability to handle both spinners and pacers with equal proficiency stood out.

5. Rilee Rossouw – 109 vs Bangladesh, 2022

In the 2022 T20 World Cup, Rilee Rossouw delivered a masterclass against Bangladesh in Sydney. His aggressive 109 off 56 balls was a spectacle of power hitting. Rossouw’s innings was studded with 7 fours and 8 sixes, propelling South Africa to a formidable score of 205/5. This explosive knock didn’t just set a high target; it demoralized the opposition and set the tone for the game.

South Africa’s bowlers capitalized on the momentum, restricting Bangladesh to just 101, securing a massive 104-run victory. Rossouw’s innings was not only about the sheer volume of runs but also rapid and decisive manner in which they were scored, leaving Bangladesh in disarray.

These top five highest individual scores not only highlight the talent and skill of the players but also the thrilling nature of T20 cricket. Each of these innings has left an indelible mark on the tournament’s history. Inspiring the future generations of cricketers to push the boundaries of what is possible in the sport.