Kevin O'Brien hits quickest World Cup century

Ireland's Kevin O'Brien exults after his fastest Century against England at Chinnaswamy stadium in Bangalore on Wednesday during the ICC Cricket World cup. Photo: G.P. Sampath Kumar

Ireland’s Kevin O’Brien has hit the quickest century in World Cup history to give Ireland the chance of a sensational victory over England.

O’Brien reached his hundred off just 50 balls to smash the record, set off 66 balls by Australia opener Matthew Hayden in 2007.

Ireland had looked down and out at 111-5 in reply to England’s 327-8 but O’Brien clubbed six sixes and 13 fours to reach his hundred and take his team to 272-5 with nine overs remaining.