Whose Bat Did Shahid Afridi Use to Score His Fastest Century? The Story Behind the Iconic Knock

Shahid Afridi’s fastest century is embedded in cricket history. Fans often ask, whose bat did Shahid Afridi use to score his fastest century? The real story adds a layer of intrigue to an already legendary achievement. Let’s explore the fascinating truth behind this unforgettable moment.

Shahid Afridi with bat after fastest century – whose bat did Shahid Afridi use to score his fastest century?

The Record-Breaking Innings: How History Was Made

In October 1996, a young Shahid Afridi was given a surprise chance to play for Pakistan in the Coca-Cola Tri-Nation Series. At just 16, Afridi stunned cricket lovers by scoring a hundred off just 37 balls against Sri Lanka. This remained the fastest century in ODI cricket for many years.

But here’s the twist — whose bat did Shahid Afridi use to score his fastest century? Surprisingly, it was not his own.

The Surprising Origin of Afridi’s Historic Bat

Few know that Afridi used a bat that belonged to India’s cricket legend Sachin Tendulkar. How did this happen? According to multiple sources, including Jagran English’s detailed piece, Tendulkar had gifted the bat to Pakistan’s Waqar Younis as a friendly gesture. Before Afridi’s famous knock, Waqar handed over Sachin’s bat to the young all-rounder, thinking it could give him confidence for the big game.

Afridi made history that day, smashing 11 sixes and 6 fours. The story of his hundred is remarkable not only for the speed, but also for the spirit of camaraderie it highlights — crossing national boundaries through a simple act of generosity.

Sporting Irony: An Indian Legend’s Bat Powers a Pakistani Record

Cricket is filled with rivalries, especially between India and Pakistan. Yet, Afridi’s fastest century, scored using Sachin Tendulkar’s bat, shows how unexpectedly the spirit of sportsmanship can win. This unforgettable story is now part of cricket folklore, as highlighted in this comprehensive article about Afridi’s fastest century.

What Happened to the Record and the Bat?

Afridi's 37-ball century stood as the fastest in ODI history until 2014, when Corey Anderson of New Zealand broke the record. AB de Villiers surpassed it yet again in 2015. Still, the tale of Afridi’s achievement with Sachin's gifted bat remains iconic. Cricket lovers continue to remember this story for the unity it symbolizes.

Conclusion: An Unforgettable Moment in Cricket

So, whose bat did Shahid Afridi use to score his fastest century? The answer: Sachin Tendulkar’s. It’s a story that unites two cricketing nations and demonstrates how the smallest actions can have lasting impact on sports history. If you wish to dive deeper into this tale, don’t miss reading the full scoop with rare details.

Cricket fans cherish Afridi's explosive innings, but knowing the backstory makes it even more special. The next time someone asks, "Whose bat did Shahid Afridi use to score his fastest century?", you can share this unique piece of cricket history!