June 2025 | Global Cricket Desk – Scoring a century in a One Day International (ODI) match is a dream for any cricketer. It takes composure, patience, and immense skill to reach the three-figure mark. But some players have managed to achieve this incredible feat at an age when most are just finding their place in the professional world of cricket.
In the history of ODIs, a handful of young cricketers have not only made debuts at a tender age but have also stunned the world with their maiden centuries. These record-breaking efforts reflect fearless talent, early maturity, and the ever-evolving nature of international cricket.
Let’s dive into the list of the youngest players to score an ODI century, highlighting their ages, contexts, and career impact.
👶 Shahid Afridi – 16 Years and 217 Days (Pakistan)
Century vs Sri Lanka | 1996 | Nairobi
Arguably the most famous on this list, Shahid Afridi smashed a century just in his second ODI match, and that too in just 37 balls — a record for the fastest ODI hundred at the time. At only 16, Afridi stunned the cricket world with his audacious hitting, scoring 102 runs off 40 balls against a seasoned Sri Lankan attack.
His record stood for over 17 years and firmly established him as one of cricket’s most explosive all-rounders.
👦 Usman Ghani – 17 Years and 242 Days (Afghanistan)
Century vs Zimbabwe | 2014 | Bulawayo
Afghanistan’s cricket journey has seen many young stars, and Usman Ghani is a prominent name. At just under 18 years old, he scored 118 off 143 balls in only his fourth ODI. His classy innings came in a run chase and proved his ability to anchor innings under pressure. Ghani remains one of the brightest young talents from Afghanistan’s early ODI years.
🔥 Imran Nazir – 18 Years and 121 Days (Pakistan)
Century vs Zimbabwe | 2000 | Lahore
Imran Nazir’s flair and timing were on full display when he smashed a century against Zimbabwe at just 18. Though his career was marred by inconsistency, this innings showed the world his potential as an aggressive opener. Nazir’s youthful confidence and natural strokeplay made him an instant fan favorite.
🌟 Sachin Tendulkar – 18 Years and 186 Days (India)
Century vs Australia | 1994 | Colombo
Even before this milestone, Sachin Tendulkar was a household name. But when he finally reached his maiden ODI century — after 78 matches — at the age of 18, it was a turning point. He scored 110 off 130 balls against Australia and never looked back, eventually becoming the highest century-maker in ODI history with 49 tons.
Tendulkar’s story is not just about age, but persistence and the ability to grow into greatness.
🧨 Rahmanullah Gurbaz – 19 Years and 148 Days (Afghanistan)
Century on Debut vs Ireland | 2021 | Abu Dhabi
In 2021, Rahmanullah Gurbaz joined an elite club by scoring a century on ODI debut — a rare feat. His aggressive 127 came off 127 balls, showcasing power, flair, and fearlessness typical of the new generation. Still under 20, Gurbaz’s performance underlined Afghanistan’s strong pipeline of youth talent.
💡 Why Early Centuries Matter
These performances are more than just personal milestones. They are catalysts for change, igniting passion in young fans, giving selectors fresh hope, and forcing cricketing nations to focus on youth development. Scoring a century early in one’s career often helps players earn a longer run in the team and gain invaluable experience.
With improving infrastructure, age-group tournaments, and fitness standards, we can expect even younger talents to emerge in the coming years and break existing records.
🔭 Future Watch: Who Could Be Next?
In 2025, the likes of Yashasvi Jaiswal (India), Dunith Wellalage (Sri Lanka), Noor Ahmad (Afghanistan), and Harry Brook (England) are exciting young prospects in international cricket. With increased exposure and consistent performance in domestic leagues, the next teenage ODI centurion might be just around the corner.
🏁 Conclusion: Youth is No Barrier in Modern Cricket
The record books prove that age is just a number in cricket. Whether it’s a teenager smashing a world-class bowling attack or a prodigy shining under lights in a high-stakes ODI, young centurions bring a sense of magic to the sport.
As cricket continues to evolve with data-driven coaching, youth academies, and global exposure through leagues, fans can expect to witness more historic centuries from teenage sensations in the coming years.
