Delhi Capitals’ Jake Fraser McGurk has etched his name in the history books of the Indian Premier League (IPL) by becoming the first player to achieve three half-centuries in 20 balls or less. The Australian sensation accomplished this remarkable feat during Delhi’s match against Rajasthan Royals at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in Delhi.
McGurk’s blistering knock of 50 off 20 deliveries, adorned with seven fours and three sixes, propelled him to a strike rate of 250.00. In a single over bowled by Avesh Khan, a reserve bowler in India’s T20 World Cup squad, McGurk unleashed a barrage of boundaries, scoring 28 runs off six balls.
Prior to McGurk’s historic achievement, several other IPL stars had registered two half-centuries in 20 balls or less, including Yashasvi Jaiswal, Nicholas Pooran, KL Rahul, Ishan Kishan, Kieron Pollard, Sunil Narine, and Travis Head. However, McGurk’s three such knocks in a single season set him apart as a truly exceptional talent.
In the ongoing IPL season, McGurk has amassed 309 runs at an impressive average of 44.14 and a remarkable strike rate of 235.87. His tally includes four half-centuries, with his highest score being 84. He has also struck 30 fours and 26 sixes, showcasing his power-hitting prowess.
Within the powerplay itself, McGurk has been a force to reckon with, scoring 245 runs in just 96 balls at an average of 61.2 and a strike rate of 255.20. His powerplay exploits include 29 fours and 19 sixes.
Notably, McGurk is the only Delhi Capitals batter to have scored a half-century within the powerplay in six overs, a feat he has achieved twice, against Sunrisers Hyderabad and Mumbai Indians.
In the match against Rajasthan Royals, Delhi Capitals won the toss and elected to bat first. McGurk’s blistering knock set the tone for Delhi’s innings, which ended with a total of 220/5. Rajasthan Royals, in response, fell short by 15 runs, handing Delhi Capitals a crucial victory.
