In a spectacular display of power-hitting and elite form, South African cricket legend Faf du Plessis has set a new record in T20 cricket, surpassing Pakistan’s Babar Azam to become the T20 captain with the most centuries in the format. The veteran right-handed batsman achieved this feat during a blistering innings of 103 runs off just 53 balls while representing the Texas Super Kings in the United States’ Major League Cricket (MLC).
This innings not only cemented du Plessis’s legacy in T20 cricket but also added another milestone to his already glittering career. It was his eighth century as a T20 captain, breaking the previous record of seven centuries held by Babar Azam, the star batter and captain of Pakistan.
Du Plessis’s Record-Breaking Century: A Masterclass in T20 Batting
Du Plessis’s explosive innings came in a high-octane match against the San Francisco Unicorns, where the Texas Super Kings were looking to solidify their position in the MLC standings. Facing a potent bowling attack, du Plessis delivered a masterclass in T20 batting, scoring:
- 103 runs in just 53 balls
- 9 towering sixes
- 5 crisp fours
- A strike rate of over 194
This was not just a routine century—it was a statement. From his first boundary to the last six that sealed the deal, du Plessis demonstrated timing, power, precision, and leadership—hallmarks of his cricketing career.
The Rise of Major League Cricket and Du Plessis’s Role
The United States’ Major League Cricket is gaining traction as one of the fastest-growing T20 leagues in the world, attracting star cricketers from across the globe. Du Plessis, now 40 years old, is among the league’s marquee players. His presence not only boosts the quality of cricket but also brings experience and leadership to the developing T20 market in North America.
This century marks du Plessis’s second hundred in the ongoing MLC season, making him the first cricketer to score two T20 centuries after the age of 40—a testament to his fitness, adaptability, and relentless drive.
Du Plessis vs. Babar Azam: The Battle of T20 Captains
The record-breaking innings puts du Plessis ahead of Babar Azam, one of the most consistent performers in T20 cricket. Babar, who recently became the first Pakistani to cross 10,000 T20 runs, has seven centuries as a T20 captain and over 5,200 T20 runs scored while leading the side.
Here’s a comparative snapshot of the two captains:
| Statistic | Faf du Plessis | Babar Azam |
|---|---|---|
| T20 Centuries as Captain | 8 | 7 |
| Total T20 Runs (as captain) | 4,800+ | 5,200+ |
| T20 Strike Rate | ~130 | ~128 |
| T20 Matches as Captain | 150+ | 110+ |
| Age | 40 | 30 |
Both cricketers have led by example, often anchoring their team’s innings while also showcasing flair and attacking brilliance when required. However, du Plessis’s record, achieved well into his 40s, adds a new dimension to his legacy—longevity at the highest level.
Why Du Plessis’s Feat is Extraordinary
Faf du Plessis’s century is significant for several reasons:
- Consistency After 40: Scoring not one, but two centuries in a single T20 league season at the age of 40 is a rare achievement in modern-day cricket.
- Captaincy Pressure: Leading a team in T20 is no easy task. Balancing leadership responsibilities while scoring runs under pressure shows his cricketing maturity.
- Global Impact: His record has global implications, as it places him above younger and current-generation cricketers like Babar Azam in one of T20’s key metrics.
- Promoting T20 in the U.S.: His performances are helping to popularize cricket in the United States, potentially attracting more viewership and investments to Major League Cricket.
A Look at Faf du Plessis’s T20 Career
Faf du Plessis has had a prolific T20 career that spans across international cricket and major T20 leagues like the IPL, CPL, PSL, and now the MLC. Known for his elegant yet aggressive stroke play, du Plessis has played for:
- South Africa (National Team)
- Chennai Super Kings (IPL)
- St Kitts and Nevis Patriots (CPL)
- Comilla Victorians (BPL)
- Quetta Gladiators (PSL)
- Texas Super Kings (MLC)
As a batsman, he has often been praised for:
- Handling pace and spin with equal ease
- Leadership acumen in high-pressure matches
- Adaptability across different playing conditions
- Fitness levels that rival younger players
Babar Azam’s Achievements in T20 Cricket
While du Plessis has claimed the record for most T20 centuries as captain, Babar Azam remains one of the most prolific T20 batsmen globally. He recently became:
- The fastest Asian to 10,000 T20 runs
- The only Pakistani captain with over 5,200 T20 runs
- A mainstay in T20 leagues such as PSL and BPL
Known for his elegant cover drives and consistent scoring, Babar continues to set high standards, especially as a top-order batter. His calm demeanor, leadership consistency, and batting finesse make him a formidable captain in modern T20 cricket.
Reactions from the Cricket World
Du Plessis’s record-breaking innings has drawn praise from cricket legends, analysts, and fans around the world. On social media, hashtags like #FafDuPlessis, #MLC2025, and #T20GOAT began trending soon after his innings.
Former South African cricketer AB de Villiers tweeted:
“Age is just a number when you’re as fit and focused as @faf1307. What a knock! A true legend of the shortest format.”
Pakistani fans and analysts also acknowledged du Plessis’s achievement, while also highlighting Babar Azam’s consistent performances and contribution to Pakistan’s T20 success.
What’s Next for Faf du Plessis and T20 Cricket?
With the ongoing popularity of franchise leagues like MLC, IPL, and CPL, du Plessis is likely to remain a sought-after T20 commodity despite his age. His leadership, fitness, and hunger for records make him a vital asset to any team.
For du Plessis, the next logical step could include:
- Coaching or mentoring roles in T20 leagues
- Continued franchise appearances in T20 leagues around the world
- Pushing for more individual and team records before retirement
Conclusion: A Record for the Ages
Faf du Plessis’s eighth T20 century as captain marks a historic milestone in the evolution of T20 cricket. Surpassing Babar Azam—one of the modern greats—is no small feat, and doing so while still performing at an elite level post-40 underscores his greatness.
As cricket continues to grow globally, especially with leagues emerging in newer markets like the United States, players like du Plessis are setting benchmarks for professionalism, longevity, and excellence. This record not only celebrates a personal achievement but also inspires younger generations to pursue greatness, regardless of age.
