Surat, India: Cricket fans witnessed history on Sunday as Meghalaya’s Akash Kumar Choudhary delivered a once-in-a-lifetime performance, blasting the fastest fifty in First-Class cricket history — a jaw-dropping 11-ball half-century during the Ranji Trophy 2025 Plate Group match against Arunachal Pradesh.
The 25-year-old right-hander not only broke records but redefined power-hitting in red-ball cricket. He surpassed the previous world record held by England’s Wayne White, who scored a 12-ball fifty for Leicestershire in 2012.
A Record-Breaking Blitz in Surat
Coming in at No. 8 with Meghalaya already dominating at 576/6, Akash Kumar Choudhary wasted no time in rewriting cricket history. He hammered eight consecutive sixes, including six in a single over off bowler Limar Dabi, sending the crowd — and social media — into a frenzy.
By the time Meghalaya declared at 628/6, Akash stood unbeaten on 50 off just 14 balls, turning a routine innings into an unforgettable spectacle. This remarkable knock now stands as the fastest fifty ever in Ranji Trophy and First-Class cricket worldwide.
Breaking Indian and Global Records
Before Akash’s heroics, the Indian record for the fastest fifty belonged to Bandeep Singh of Jammu & Kashmir, who reached the mark in 15 balls. Globally, no player in First-Class cricket had ever achieved a fifty in fewer than 12 deliveries — until Akash Kumar Choudhary’s breathtaking performance.
This historic feat not only brought attention to the Ranji Trophy Plate Group, but also highlighted the growing depth and talent emerging from India’s domestic cricket structure.
From Struggles to Stardom
Akash, who made his First-Class debut in 2019 against Nagaland, has played across formats for Meghalaya. His journey has seen highs and lows — before this match, he had just two fifties in his last ten innings and had struggled for form, failing to cross 20 runs in five consecutive games.
However, his recent fifty against Bihar hinted at a comeback. Sunday’s record-breaking innings confirmed it in emphatic style, proving that form is temporary, but class is permanent.
A Dream Day for a Rising Star
To make the day even more memorable, Akash also opened the bowling and struck early, showcasing his all-round skills. As Arunachal Pradesh trailed by 593 runs, the spotlight firmly stayed on the man who turned 11 balls into a chapter of cricketing folklore.
With this historic knock, Akash Kumar Choudhary has not only etched his name into the record books but also brought Meghalaya cricket into the global spotlight.
