IPL 2026 has got its first centurion as Sanju Samson smashed an unbeaten 115 runs. Over the years, IPL has seen many centurions, but the season’s first century always adds extra value to the league. In the first match of IPL in 2008, Brendon McCullum’s 158 opened the books of records. From 2008 to 2026, a total of 111 centuries have been smashed. In 2016, Virat Kohli smashed four centuries and created records. The 2024 IPL season has witnessed a remarkable total of 14 centuries, making it the season with the highest number of centuries recorded.
Here is the list of the first centurion of every IPL season
2008 – Brendon McCullum (KKR)
Brendon McCullum launched the IPL with a historic 158* off 73 against RCB, redefining T20 batting instantly. His explosive strokeplay, innovative shots, and fearless intent set the tournament’s tone. It remains one of the most iconic innings, showcasing power-hitting and establishing IPL as a global entertainment spectacle from day one.
2009 – AB de Villiers (Delhi Daredevils)
AB de Villiers crafted a fluent 105* off 54 against CSK, blending elegance with calculated aggression. His ability to accelerate seamlessly and dominate bowling attacks highlighted his versatility. This innings marked his early IPL influence, foreshadowing his future as one of the league’s most innovative and dependable match-winners.
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2010 – Yusuf Pathan (Rajasthan Royals)
Yusuf Pathan smashed a blistering 100 off just 37 balls against MI, one of the fastest IPL centuries. His brute force and fearless hitting nearly pulled off an improbable chase. This knock exemplified his match-changing ability and remains a benchmark for aggressive middle-order batting in high-pressure situations.
2011 – Paul Valthaty (Kings XI Punjab)
Paul Valthaty stunned CSK with a remarkable 120* off 63, anchoring a memorable chase. His composure, timing, and ability to pace the innings stood out. This unexpected performance turned him into an overnight sensation, proving IPL’s platform for emerging talents to shine against established international stars.
2012 – Ajinkya Rahane (Rajasthan Royals)
Ajinkya Rahane’s 103* off 60 against RCB showcased classical batting in T20 cricket. With elegant drives and precise placement, he anchored the innings expertly. His knock highlighted that traditional technique, when combined with intent, can be equally effective in the shortest format, bringing balance to aggressive IPL batting trends.
2013 – Shane Watson (Rajasthan Royals)
Shane Watson hammered 101 off 61 against CSK, combining power with consistency. His all-round dominance was evident as he controlled the innings with authority. This century reinforced his reputation as a dependable match-winner and a key pillar for the Rajasthan Royals during their competitive IPL campaigns.
2014 – Lendl Simmons (Mumbai Indians)
Lendl Simmons struck 100* off 61 against KXIP, delivering a composed yet impactful innings. His ability to anchor while accelerating at the right moments helped MI stay competitive. This knock underlined his reliability as a top-order batsman and his knack for stepping up in crucial situations.
2015 – Brendon McCullum (Chennai Super Kings)
Brendon McCullum returned with a commanding 100* off 56 against SRH, leading from the front for CSK. His aggressive intent and leadership were evident throughout. This innings reaffirmed his status as a T20 pioneer, capable of delivering impactful performances even years after his iconic 2008 knock.
2016 – Quinton de Kock (Delhi Daredevils)
Quinton de Kock blasted 108 off 51 against RCB, displaying fearless batting and clean striking. His innings dismantled the bowling attack with ease, highlighting his potential as a destructive opener. This knock played a crucial role in establishing him as a consistent performer in IPL seasons to come.
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2017 – Sanju Samson (Delhi Daredevils)
Sanju Samson’s 102 off 63 against Rising Pune Supergiant was a blend of flair and maturity. He paced the innings beautifully, mixing aggression with control. This century marked his emergence as a dependable top-order batsman, capable of anchoring and accelerating in high-pressure IPL encounters.
2018 – Chris Gayle (Kings XI Punjab)
Chris Gayle smashed 104* off 63 against SRH, proving his dominance despite being overlooked initially. His effortless six-hitting and calm presence turned the game decisively. This innings reaffirmed his “Universe Boss” status and demonstrated his enduring ability to change matches single-handedly.
2019 – Sanju Samson (Rajasthan Royals)
Sanju Samson delivered a stunning 102* off 55 against SRH, showcasing his improved consistency. His aggressive strokeplay and ability to dominate quality bowling stood out. This innings solidified his role as a key batsman for the Rajasthan Royals and highlighted his growth as a dependable IPL performer.
2020 – KL Rahul (Kings XI Punjab)
KL Rahul’s 132* off 69 against RCB was a masterclass in controlled aggression. He paced the innings perfectly, accelerating after a steady start. This knock remains one of the highest IPL scores, emphasising his ability to anchor innings while delivering explosive finishes.
2021 – Sanju Samson (Rajasthan Royals)
Sanju Samson scored 119 off 63 against PBKS in a thrilling chase, nearly pulling off victory. His leadership and batting brilliance were evident as he carried the team single-handedly. This innings showcased his maturity, composure, and ability to perform under immense pressure.
2022 – Jos Buttler (Rajasthan Royals)
Jos Buttler’s 100 off 68 against MI highlighted his dominance as an opener. Combining power with precision, he controlled the innings throughout. This century was part of a prolific season, establishing him as one of the most dangerous and consistent batsmen in modern IPL history.
2023 – Harry Brook (Sunrisers Hyderabad)
Harry Brook smashed 100* off 55 against KKR, silencing critics after a slow start. His aggressive approach and clean hitting demonstrated his immense potential. This innings marked his arrival in IPL, proving his capability to adapt and deliver impactful performances under scrutiny.
2024 – Virat Kohli (Royal Challengers Bengaluru)
Virat Kohli’s 113* off 72 against RR was a classic display of controlled aggression. Anchoring the innings, he combined timing with calculated risks. This knock reinforced his consistency and hunger, proving his continued dominance as one of IPL’s most reliable and prolific run-scorers.
2025 – Ishan Kishan (Sunrisers Hyderabad)
Ishan Kishan’s 100 off 67 against MI showcased his aggressive intent and adaptability. He balanced risk with smart shot selection, leading the innings effectively. This century highlighted his evolution as a top-order batsman capable of delivering match-winning performances in crucial IPL encounters.
2026 – Sanju Samson
Sanju Samson’s 115 off 67 against DC reflected his peak form and leadership. He controlled the innings with authority, mixing elegance with power. This knock emphasised his consistency across seasons and his role as a cornerstone player, capable of delivering under pressure and leading from the front.
