Meghalaya’s Akash Kumar Breaks World Record with Fastest Fifty in Ranji Trophy News24 –

Akash Kumar of Meghalaya created a furore in the Ranji Trophy on Day 2 of the match between Meghalaya and Arunachal Pradesh with a record-smashing blitz. Coming to bat following the fall of Rahul Dalal (144) at 576/6, Akash went on a rampage, slamming eight massive sixes to attain his half-century in just 11 balls-the fastest ever fifty in first-class cricket. His whirlwind knock managed to get Meghalaya declaring at 628/6 against Arunachal Pradesh, having crossed the 600-run barrier with ease.

The 52-run partnership between Akash and Swastic Chettri came off just a handful of deliveries as the right-hander maintained a strike rate of over 300.

His fearless hitting left the Arunachal’s bowlers hapless as he tore into the attack without restraint. The previous record for the fastest fifty in first-class cricket was held by Wayne White, who reached the mark in 12 balls playing for Leicestershire against Essex back in 2012.

Akash’s sensational knock followed his unbeaten 60 in Meghalaya’s Ranji encounter earlier against Bihar, having helped the side post 407/7 before declaring. The dominance of Meghalaya in this outing, however, began right from the word go as opener Arpit Bhatewara struck a brilliant double century, while skipper Kishan Lyngdoh notched up a composed 119 and Dalal’s fine 144 set things up perfectly for Akash’s fireworks to finish the innings in style.