Yuvraj Samra Becomes Youngest T20 World Cup Centurion in Chennai

Canada opener Yuvraj Samra etched his name into cricket history by becoming the youngest player to score a century in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup. The 19-year-old achieved the milestone during Canada’s Group D clash against New Zealand at the M. A. Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai.

Samra reached the landmark in just 58 deliveries, showcasing remarkable composure and attacking intent against an experienced New Zealand bowling attack.

Youngest Centurion in Tournament History

At 19 years and 141 days, Samra broke the previous record held by Pakistan batter Ahmed Shehzad, who was 22 years and 127 days old when he scored a T20 World Cup century. Samra also became the first cricketer from an Associate nation to register a century in the tournament’s history.

The achievement places him among the youngest centurions in the competition, alongside notable names from previous editions.

Strong Opening Partnership Sets the Platform

Samra laid the foundation early, bringing up his half-century in 36 balls before accelerating the scoring rate. He shared a crucial 116-run opening stand with captain Dilpreet Bajwa, whose steady 36 runs helped stabilize the innings and build early momentum.

The partnership gave Canada a solid start and put pressure on New Zealand in a must-win fixture.

Aggressive Strokeplay Against Quality Pace Attack

Facing pace bowlers Matt Henry and Kyle Jamieson, Samra combined patience with calculated aggression. His innings featured 11 boundaries and six sixes, reflecting both control and power.

He eventually scored a commanding 110 off 65 balls, marking his maiden international century and his first hundred across formats.

Samra survived a chance on 103 when a catch was dropped in the deep, allowing him to add valuable runs before being dismissed later in the innings.

Crucial Knock Lifts Canada to Competitive Total

Samra’s century powered Canada to 173 for 4, providing a competitive total and boosting their hopes in the tournament. Canada, placed at the bottom of the group before the match, needed a standout performance, and the young opener delivered on the biggest stage.

His innings also made him only the second batter to score a century in the 2026 edition of the tournament.

Rising Star Signals Growth of Associate Cricket

Samra’s record-breaking performance highlights the growing competitiveness of Associate nations in global cricket. His fearless approach and maturity under pressure have drawn attention from fans and analysts alike.

As Canada continues its campaign, the historic century stands as a defining moment — not only for the team but also for the expanding global footprint of the sport.