The T20 World Cup, known for its high-octane and fast-paced cricket, occasionally witnesses innings where batsmen adopt a more cautious approach. The 9th edition of the T20 World Cup has witnessed several low scoring encounters and slow innings, the recent being Suryakumar Yadav’s knock against the USA.
Here are the top five slowest fifties in the tournament’s history:
1. Mohammad Rizwan vs Canada, New York, 2024 – 52 Balls
Mohammad Rizwan’s fifty against Canada in 2024 is the slowest in T20 World Cup history, taking 52 balls to reach the milestone. In a rare low-scoring affair, Rizwan’s innings was a testament to his resilience and ability to anchor the innings, ensuring his team chased the low target.
2. David Miller vs Netherlands, New York, 2024 – 50 Balls
In the same 2024 tournament, David Miller took 50 balls to score his fifty against the Netherlands. Known for his explosive batting, Miller’s knock was uncharacteristically slow but crucial. His innings stabilized the South African innings after a shaky start, showcasing his versatility as a batsman.
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3. Devon Smith vs Bangladesh, Johannesburg, 2007 – 49 Balls
Devon Smith’s 49-ball fifty against Bangladesh in the inaugural T20 World Cup in 2007 remains memorable for its patience and determination. Playing in challenging conditions, Smith’s innings was pivotal for the West Indies, highlighting his ability to adapt to different match situations.
4. David Hussey vs England, Barbados, 2010 – 49 Balls
David Hussey’s fifty off 49 balls against England in the 2010 T20 World Cup was a masterclass in measured batting. Known for his aggressive style, Hussey opted for a cautious approach to steer Australia out of trouble, underlining his cricketing acumen.
5. Suryakumar Yadav vs USA, New York, 2024 – 49 Balls
Suryakumar Yadav’s 49-ball fifty against the USA in 2024 was a display of grit and perseverance. In a match where wickets tumbled, Yadav’s controlled innings provided stability to the Indian batting lineup, demonstrating his ability to play under pressure.
These innings, though slower than the typical T20 knock, underline the importance of adaptability and the ability to anchor an innings in the shortest format of the game.
