Table of Contents
India’s dominance at the youth level in cricket has often been defined by fearless batting and explosive talent. Over the years, the Under-19 setup has produced world-class players, many of whom went on to become prominent names. Among the most thrilling moments in Youth ODIs are lightning-fast fifties — innings that completely alter the course of a match within a few overs.
Here are the top 5 fastest fifties by Indians in Youth ODIs:
1. Rishabh Pant – 18 balls vs Nepal U-19
Before becoming India’s Test match-winner, Rishabh Pant was already turning heads in youth cricket. During the ICC Under-19 World Cup 2016 in Bangladesh, Pant smashed a brilliant half-century off just 18 balls against Nepal U19 in Mirpur. The innings was a perfect example of controlled aggression — he cleared the ropes with ease and sent the Nepal bowling attack into disarray. That knock not only helped India chase down a modest total with ease but also announced Pant’s arrival on the big stage.
2. Vaibhav Suryavanshi – 20 balls vs England U-19
In 2025, 14-year-old sensation Vaibhav Suryavanshi once again delivered with a 20-ball fifty against England U19 in Northampton. Showcasing exceptional composure for someone so young, Vaibhav launched into the English attack from the get-go, hammering 9 sixes and 6 fours. It was the second-fastest fifty by an Indian in Youth ODIs and arguably one of the best given the quality of the opposition. In a match-winning performance, Vaibhav scored a total of 86 runs in just 31 deliveries taking his side home.
3. Tilak Varma – 23 balls vs England U-19
Another exciting left-handed talent, Tilak Varma, joined the elite list in 2023 with a blistering 23-ball fifty against England U19. Known for his aggressive middle-order approach, Tilak wasted no time imposing himself on the bowlers. The knock came at a crucial juncture in the series and helped India post a formidable total. Varma’s performance further solidified his reputation as a dependable yet aggressive batter in pressure situations.
Also READ: Top 5 highest successful chases by England in Test cricket
4. Vaibhav Suryavanshi – 24 balls vs Sri Lanka U-19
A year before his fireworks against England, Vaibhav had already made headlines with a 24-ball fifty against Sri Lanka U19. This innings, though slightly slower than his recent one, was no less impactful. Batting in Sharjah, he dominated spin and pace alike, often advancing down the track and clearing the boundary with ease. This performance laid the foundation for his rise as one of the most exciting names in India’s Youth circuit.
5. Yuvraj Singh – 25 balls vs Australia – U19
Before he became a national hero in the 2007 and 2011 World Cups, Yuvraj Singh had already shown glimpses of his talent in the youth circuit. In the 2000 U-19 World Cup, he thrashed a rapid 25-ball fifty against Australia U19, setting the tone for India’s dominance in the tournament. Yuvraj’s strokeplay was elegant yet powerful, combining timing and intent to perfection. That knock remains one of the most memorable moments from his early years and set the platform for a stellar international career.
Also READ: Top 5 highest ever team totals in County Cricket history ft. Surrey
