Australian Will Malajczuk sets new U19 WC record during AUS U-19 vs JPN U-19 in ICC U19 Cricket World Cup 2026

Australian teenager Will Malajczuk created a new record in the ICC U19 Cricket World Cup history while he played a smashing knock during their group stage match against Japan U19 in the ongoing 2026 edition. 

Will Malajczuk slammed 51-ball century

After Japan chose to bat first, they scored 201/8 in 50 overs. In reply, Australia U19 chased down the target in just 29.1 overs after losing only two wickets, as the opener Will Malajczuk smashed a record-breaking 51-ball century. 

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Will Malajczuk recorded fastest century in ICC U19 Cricket World Cup

The Aussie openers Will Malajczuk and Nitesh Samuel had a 135-run partnership in 15.3 overs. With the help of 12 fours and five sixes, Will recorded a 51-ball century, as the 18-year-old left-handed batter scored 102 off 55 balls before losing his wicket. It was the new record for the fastest century in the history of the ICC U19 Cricket World Cup. Nitesh also remained not out for 60 off 73 balls with four fours, as the defending champions comfortably won the match and qualified for the Super Six. 

Will started the chase with two back-to-back fours, which he continued before losing his wicket in the 16th over. He completed his half-century in 23 balls with eight fours and two sixes, and took 28 more balls to reach the three-figure mark. It was the 13.5 overs when Will completed the fastest-ever century in the U19 World Cup history.

Hugo Tani-Kelly, who scored an unbeaten century against Sri Lanka U19 in their tournament opener, also scored 79 not out against the defending champions, which helped Japan manage 200+ total. Opener Nihar Parmar was the other 30+ scorer in that innings, scoring 33 runs. Among the Aussie bowlers, Naden Cooray (3/31) and Will Byrom (2/32) managed to claim more than one wicket.