Kusal Perera Creates History with Fastest T20I Century for Sri Lanka
Nelson witnessed a cricketing spectacle as Sri Lanka’s Kusal Perera smashed a 44-ball century in the third T20I against New Zealand, marking the fastest T20I ton by a Sri Lankan player. The match, held on January 2, 2025, was a thrilling encounter that saw Sri Lanka triumph by seven runs, denying New Zealand a clean sweep in the series.
Perera’s magnificent innings, comprising 13 fours and 4 sixes, left fans and experts in awe. His strike rate of 219.56 powered Sri Lanka to an imposing total of 218/5 in 20 overs. This century not only marked his maiden T20I ton but also broke Tillakaratne Dilshan’s 14-year record of the fastest T20I century for Sri Lanka, previously set in 2011 against Australia (55 balls).
Match Highlights:
- Sri Lanka’s Innings: Kusal Perera led the charge with 101 off 44 balls, while skipper Charith Asalanka contributed a brisk 46 off 24 balls.
- New Zealand’s Chase: Despite a valiant 69 off 39 balls by Rachin Ravindra, New Zealand fell short by seven runs. Their middle order struggled against disciplined Sri Lankan bowling.
Historical Records Set by Kusal Perera:
- Fastest T20I Century for Sri Lanka:
- 44 balls – Kusal Perera (vs New Zealand) – Nelson, 2025
- 55 balls – Tillakaratne Dilshan (vs Australia) – Pallekele, 2011
- Fastest T20I Century Against New Zealand:
- 44 balls – Kusal Perera (Sri Lanka) – Nelson, 2025
- 45 balls – Richard Levi (South Africa) – Hamilton, 2012
- Most Fifty-Plus Scores for Sri Lanka in T20Is:
- 16 – Kusal Perera (15 fifties, 1 century)
- 15 – Kusal Mendis
The Match’s Significance:
This victory is a major morale booster for Sri Lanka, who had struggled in the series. Kusal Perera’s blazing knock not only helped Sri Lanka avoid a whitewash but also etched his name in the record books as one of the most explosive batters in T20I history.
The thrilling contest also highlighted Rachin Ravindra’s heroics for New Zealand, whose lone battle kept the chase alive. Despite the series loss, the Sri Lankan team can draw inspiration from this performance as they look ahead to upcoming challenges.
