Percy Fender's 1920 Century in 35 Minutes Remains First-Class Cricket's Fastest

In 1920, English cricketer Percy Fender scored a first-class century in just 35 minutes while representing Surrey against Northamptonshire, setting a record that has endured for over a century. The feat is recognised as the fastest authentic hundred in first-class cricket history. Although other batsmen have reached three figures in similarly quick time, those innings have not met the competitive standards required to be considered legitimate challengers. The absence of a truly competitive context in those attempts has meant Fender's record remains officially unchallenged. More than 106 years on, his remarkable achievement continues to stand as the ultimate benchmark for batting speed in the sport.