10 Most Devastating Batting Performances In Cricket World Cup History

By Adam Hopkins /

1. Kevin O'Brien: 113 versus England, 2011

A potential tie-breaker question in pub quizzes for years to come, Ireland all-rounder Kevin O'Brien proudly holds the record for the fastest century in World Cup cricket - and to make it sweeter he did it against England. Chasing 328 to win in a Group B match in Bangalore, O'Brien came in with Ireland struggling at 106-4 - which soon became 111-5 after the dismissal of Gary Wilson - and went on to produce one of the most staggeringly unexpected innings in cricketing history. Reaching his ton in just 50 balls, O'Brien struck 13 fours and six sixes - including a monstrous blow off Tim Bresnan over midwicket - and ultimately helped the Irish complete a stunning three wicket victory with five balls to spare. Incredible.