Matthew Forde Smashes 16-Ball Fifty to Equal AB de Villiers’ Fastest ODI Record

West Indies all-rounder Matthew Forde etched his name in the record books by equalling AB de Villiers’ record for the fastest fifty in ODI cricket, hammering a half-century off just 16 balls against Ireland. Coming in at No. 8, Forde unleashed a breathtaking 58 off 19 deliveries, propelling the West Indies to a formidable total of 352/8. His whirlwind innings matched de Villiers’ iconic 2015 feat — also achieved against Ireland.

Matthew Forde Equals Fastest Fifty Record in Second ODI vs Ireland

West Indies all-rounder Matthew Forde etched his name in the record books by equalling the fastest fifty in ODI history, smashing a 16-ball half-century against Ireland on May 23 during the second ODI at Castle Avenue, Dublin. This feat ties the record set by AB de Villiers in 2015, also against the same opposition.

After Ireland elected to bowl first, West Indies stumbled early, with Brandon King scoring just 8 and Evin Lewis 20. But Keacy Carty’s brilliant century (102) and a steady 49 from captain Shai Hope revived the innings.

Then came Forde, batting at No. 8, who launched a stunning counterattack. In just 19 balls, he blasted 58 runs, including eight sixes and two fours, powering West Indies to an imposing 352/8. His explosive cameo not only changed the momentum of the innings but also cemented his place in ODI history.

Matthew Forde equals AB de Villiers’ record for fastest fifty

Matthew Forde’s stunning 16-ball half-century saw him equal AB de Villiers’ record for the fastest fifty in ODI cricket. De Villiers had set the benchmark back in January 2015, blasting 149 off just 44 balls against the West Indies. Now, a decade later, Forde joins him at the top of the list with his explosive effort against Ireland.

Fastest Fifties in ODI Cricket (Top 6):

1. AB de Villiers (SA) – 16 balls vs West Indies, 2015
2. Matthew Forde (WI) – 16 balls vs Ireland, 2025
3. Sanath Jayasuriya (SL) – 17 balls vs Pakistan, 1996
4. Kusal Perera (SL) – 17 balls vs Pakistan, 2015
5. Martin Guptill (NZ) – 17 balls vs Sri Lanka, 2015
6. Liam Livingstone (ENG) – 17 balls vs Netherlands, 2022

Forde’s whirlwind 58 off 19 balls propelled the West Indies to a commanding total of 352/8. For Ireland, Liam McCarthy picked up three wickets, while Barry McCarthy and Joshua Little chipped in with two apiece. Despite their bowling efforts, Ireland couldn’t contain the West Indies’ aggressive batting.

The match began with a rain delay, and is part of a three-match series, with Ireland currently leading 1-0 after a 124-run win in the opening game.

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