Milestone Men – Most centuries by a player in IPL

As the commencement of IPL 2020 is nearing with every passing day, the excitement of fans is also notching up. We are all eager to witness the T20 extravaganza in the UAE this year. Over the years, the batting department always has had an upper hand in the cash-rich league. Many overseas, as well as Indian stars, have set the stadium ablaze with their scintillating knocks.

Since the inception of the IPL, the tournament has witnessed many tons. Let’s have a look at five stalwarts to have delivered an exemplary performance in the league by smashing centuries for fun.

5. AB de Villiers

Fondly known as ‘Mr 360’, there’s hardly anything which the South African batsman can’t pull off on a cricket field. AB de Villiers, ever since paving his way into the international stage, has enthralled the audience with his batting antics. Be it his snail-like Test innings at Adelaide or the fastest ODI century in Johannesburg, the right-hander never fails to surprise the crowd.

Along with skipper Virat Kohli, the South African stalwart has been an integral part of Royal Challengers Bangalore. In 154 IPL games, De Villiers has smashed 4395 runs including three centuries, with his most famous knock coming against Mumbai Indians in 2015 where he struck unbeaten 133.

4. Shane Watson

Australia veteran Shane Watson has been that sort of player who delivers in both the departments when his side is in danger of a defeat. His IPL 2019 final knock with a bleeding knee showcased his dedication and valour.

Currently a part of Chennai Super Kings, Watson previously had also donned the jersey for Rajasthan Royals and Royal Challengers Bangalore. In 134 IPL matches, Watson has gathered 3575 runs at an average of 31.08. The right-hander also has four centuries to his name in the IPL, with the most iconic one coming against SRH in 2018 IPL final. His 57-ball 117 steered Chennai to their third IPL trophy.

‘Watto’ Century #CSKvRR pic.twitter.com/Tb1U12UNtp

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3. David Warner

David Warner has been an integral part of Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) since 2014. The left-hander steered them to their maiden IPL title in 2016 where the Orange Army defeated Virat Kohli-led Royal Challengers Bangalore in the final of the league.

Known as one of the most consistent batsmen in the league, Warner has amassed 4706 runs in 126 IPL games at an impressive average of 43.17. Tied with Watson, Warner also has 4 IPL tons under his belt. His highest score came against Kolkata Knight Riders in 2017 where he decimated their bowling force by smashing a 59-ball 126.

2. Virat Kohli

Not many fans would be surprised by seeing Virat Kohli’s name in this list. Regarded as one of the most prolific batsmen of the modern era, Kohli has been an indispensable part of the RCB squad. He is also the top run-scorer of the IPL with 5412 runs to his name.

In 177 games, Kohli has played several impressive knocks for RCB at an average of 37.84. The skipper has five centuries and 36 half-centuries under his belt. No fan can forget Kohli’s destruction against Gujarat Lions in IPL 2016 where he smashed 113 off just 50 deliveries to set the stage on fire.

1. Chris Gayle

The Caribbean giant, Chris Gayle hasn’t let his age come between his batting heroics. The veteran, at the age of 40, holds the ability to clear the stands with his sheer power. The left-hander has been a vital part of the IPL since its inception and has mustered many iconic knocks to date.

In 125 IPL games, Gayle has amassed 4484 runs at an impressive average of 41.13. He stands head and shoulders above the other batsmen with six IPL centuries to his name. One of the best knocks in the IPL came off Gayle’s willow in 2013 where he shattered Pune Warriors India by smashing a 66-ball 175. The unbeaten 175-run knock still remains the highest score in the history of the IPL.