Matthew Forde Sets ODI Record with Fastest Half-Century
Historic Achievement in Dublin
In a remarkable display of batting, 23-year-old West Indies pacer Matthew Forde made headlines in Dublin by achieving the fastest half-century in men's ODI history, reaching the milestone in just 16 balls. This feat places him alongside South Africa's AB de Villiers, who previously set the record against the West Indies in 2015. Known primarily for his bowling, Forde showcased his batting prowess by dismantling the Irish bowling attack during the second ODI of the series.
A Batting Onslaught
Entering the game in the 43rd over, Forde wasted no time in making an impact. He hit a six off his second ball, and then the real fireworks began. Facing Josh Little, a former player for the Gujarat Titans in the IPL, Forde struck four consecutive sixes in one over, leaving the Irish bowlers in disbelief. He continued his assault in the 46th over, hitting another six and two boundaries off Thomas Mayes.
Forde's Record-Breaking Performance
MATHEW FORDE EQUALLED AB DE VILLIERS' FASTEST ODI FIFTY RECORD.
— Mufaddal Vohra (@mufaddal_vohra) May 23, 2025
- A half century in 16 balls. 🤯pic.twitter.com/sxD2EpLX9P
By the end of the 46th over, Forde had amassed 43 runs off just 13 balls, signaling a potential record-breaking performance. Although he missed a ramp shot on the first ball of the 47th over, he quickly recovered, hitting two more sixes to complete his half-century in just 16 balls, equaling de Villiers' record.
Forde's innings was short-lived as he was dismissed in the same over, but his explosive batting propelled the West Indies to a total of 352 for 8. He scored 58 runs off only 19 balls, featuring eight sixes and two fours, with an impressive 56 runs coming solely from boundaries.
Team Performance and Match Outcome
Prior to Forde's explosive innings, Keacy Carty played a crucial role in stabilizing the innings with a solid 102 runs off 109 balls, while captain Shai Hope contributed 49 runs from 57 balls. This performance was particularly significant following a disappointing 124-run defeat in the first ODI, where the West Indies were bowled out for 179 while chasing a target of 310. Forde's late-game fireworks not only drew comparisons to past legends but also helped level the series. However, the match was ultimately abandoned without Ireland having the chance to bat.