Matthew Forde Equals AB De Villiers’ World Record Of Fastest 50 In ODIs
West Indies Batter Shatters Historic Record in ODI Match
Matthew Forde has become the latest cricketer to break the world record for the fastest half-century in One Day Internationals (ODIs). The 23-year-old West Indies batter equalled the achievement set by legendary South African player AB de Villiers during a crucial match between Ireland and West Indies on Friday, May 23, 2025.
Forde, who played at the No. 8 position in the innings, reached 50 runs in just 16 balls. His explosive performance included hitting two four runs and eight sixes, showcasing his aggressive batting style. This achievement not only marked a personal milestone for Forde but also secured a significant place in the history of cricket.
Historical Context of the Record
The record for the fastest half-century in ODIs was previously held by AB de Villiers, who scored 149 runs off 44 balls in a match against the West Indies in Johannesburg on January 18, 2015. Forde’s 58 runs from 19 balls in the recent match bring the two records to the same number of balls: 16.
Forde’s feat is particularly notable as it was the first time a West Indies player has matched this milestone. Before Forde, the record for the fastest 50 in ODIs by a West Indies batter was held by Chris Gayle, who achieved it in 19 balls during an ODI against England in Gros Islet in 2019.
Forde’s Impact on the Match and Team Performance
Forde’s innings was a key factor in the West Indies’ total of 352 runs in the second ODI. He partnered with Justin Greaves, who scored 44 runs from 36 balls, to add 68 runs for the seventh wicket in just 25 balls. This partnership helped the team maintain a strong position in the innings.
The West Indies’ batting lineup was bolstered by Keacy Carty, who scored 102 runs from 109 balls at the No. 3 position. Carty’s performance, combined with Forde’s, highlighted the team’s strong batting capabilities against Ireland in the match.
Record Breakers in ODI History
The following table outlines the fastest half-centuries in ODIs, highlighting the players, teams, and venues where these records were set:
Player Team Balls Opposition Venue Date AB de Villiers South Africa 16 West Indies Johannesburg January 18, 2015 Matthew Forde West Indies 16 Ireland Dublin May 23, 2025 Sanath Jayasuriya Sri Lanka 17 Pakistan Singapore April 7, 1996 Kusal Perera Sri Lanka 17 Pakistan Pallekele July 15, 2015 Martin Guptill New Zealand 17 Sri Lanka Christchurch December 12, 2015 Liam Livingstone England 17 Netherlands Amstelveen June 17, 2022
West Indies’ Fastest 50s in ODIs
- Matthew Forde – 16 balls vs Ireland, 2025
- Chris Gayle – 19 balls vs England, 2019
- Daren Sammy – 20 balls vs South Africa, 2010
- Brian Lara – 23 balls vs Canada, 2003
- Kieron Pollard – 23 balls vs Netherlands, 2011
Forde’s Historic Achievement and Its Significance
Forde’s achievement not only marks a personal success but also highlights the growing talent in the West Indies cricket team. His performance in the ODI against Ireland is a testament to his skill and determination. This record-breaking innings has secured his place in the history of the game.
The match, which took place in Dublin, was a significant event for cricket fans around the world. Forde’s performance has been widely praised, and his record now stands as a benchmark for future cricketers.