Top 10 Players in Asia Cup History to Score a Century

By Sudesh - Sep 09, 2025 02:09 PM
Last updated on Sep 09, 2025 02:26 PM

The Asia Cup has produced some of the most iconic innings in cricketing history. Scoring a century on this stage is more than just a statistic—it is a testament to a player's ability to rise under pressure, adapt to varying conditions, and lead their team in high-stakes encounters. From gritty knocks to explosive performances, these centuries have defined matches and left a lasting mark on fans. Let's take a journey from the 10th to the 1st spot, celebrating the players whose centuries lit up the Asia Cup.

The Asia Cup has given cricket fans unforgettable moments, and centuries stand out as the ultimate achievement in the tournament. A century in the Asia Cup means more than just personal glory—it represents dominance in one of Asia's most competitive cricketing stages. Let's count down from the 10th to the 1st, reliving the legendary innings and players who shaped the history of the Asia Cup.

10. Arjuna Ranatunga

Arjuna Ranatunga, the inspirational Sri Lankan captain, etched his name into Asia Cup history with his gritty batting displays. His centuries reflected his ability to lead from the front and deliver when the team was under pressure. Ranatunga was never the most stylish batsman, but his temperament and leadership gave Sri Lanka stability in crucial matches.

His centuries were symbolic of his larger role in Sri Lankan cricket: resilience and belief. Each run he scored showcased his determination, often setting the stage for victories that built Sri Lanka’s strong cricketing foundation in the tournament.

9. Gautam Gambhir

Gautam Gambhir’s centuries in the Asia Cup embodied his fighting spirit and consistency. Known for his ability to anchor innings, Gambhir was the glue in India’s batting order, ensuring that the team remained steady against tough opposition. His century-making efforts gave India a strong platform in several matches.

Beyond numbers, Gambhir’s innings reflected mental toughness. His ability to grind out runs under pressure made him one of India’s most dependable Asia Cup performers, with his centuries remaining a reminder of his reliability in big tournaments.

8. Tillakaratne Dilshan

Tillakaratne Dilshan brought innovation to ODI cricket, and his Asia Cup centuries were an extension of that brilliance. Famous for his 'Dilscoop' and fearless strokeplay, Dilshan often dismantled bowling attacks during powerplays. His centuries provided Sri Lanka with explosive starts at the top of the order.

Dilshan’s value was not just in his shot-making but also in his adaptability. He could pace his innings depending on the situation, whether anchoring or attacking, making his centuries vital in Sri Lanka’s tournament successes.

7. Shahid Afridi

Shahid Afridi’s name is synonymous with fireworks, and his Asia Cup centuries were no different. Known for his fearless and aggressive batting, Afridi’s knocks often changed the momentum of matches in a matter of overs. His explosive centuries thrilled fans and gave Pakistan much-needed breakthroughs in tense situations.

Afridi’s ability to dominate bowling attacks made him a dangerous opponent. His centuries in the Asia Cup are remembered not just for their impact on the scorecard but also for the energy and belief they injected into his team and supporters.

6. Mahela Jayawardene

Mahela Jayawardene’s centuries in the Asia Cup showcased elegance and class. A master of timing and placement, Jayawardene’s batting provided a sense of calm and assurance in Sri Lanka’s middle order. His centuries were often the backbone of Sri Lanka’s innings, guiding the team through challenging situations.

What made his contributions special was his ability to adapt his style to the needs of the game. Jayawardene could shift gears seamlessly, making his centuries match-defining and essential to Sri Lanka’s dominance in the tournament.

5. Mushfiqur Rahim

Mushfiqur Rahim has been Bangladesh’s most reliable performer in the Asia Cup, with his centuries symbolizing the nation’s rise in cricket. One of his standout knocks was his 144 against Sri Lanka in 2018, a marathon innings that carried Bangladesh almost single-handedly.

Rahim’s centuries were built on patience, grit, and exceptional shot selection. His ability to stand tall against stronger teams made him a hero for Bangladesh, and his performances highlighted how far the team had come in competing at the highest level.

4. Kumar Sangakkara

Kumar Sangakkara’s four centuries in the Asia Cup were a display of elegance and consistency. One of the finest wicketkeeper-batsmen in cricket history, Sangakkara’s batting was defined by his cover drives and flawless technique. His centuries gave Sri Lanka stability and were often match-winning efforts.

Sangakkara’s ability to craft his innings, build partnerships, and accelerate when required made him one of the most reliable performers in Asia Cup history. His centuries remain benchmarks of batting excellence in the tournament.

3. Shoaib Malik

Shoaib Malik was one of Pakistan’s most dependable batsmen in Asia Cup history, with his centuries often turning the tide in high-pressure matches. His ability to read the game and adapt his batting style made him invaluable in setting or chasing targets.

Malik’s calmness under pressure and ability to switch gears gave Pakistan crucial victories. His centuries were not just numbers; they were carefully constructed knocks that highlighted his cricketing intelligence and value as a senior pro.

2. Sanath Jayasuriya

Sanath Jayasuriya is the undisputed king of the Asia Cup, holding the record for the most centuries in the tournament’s history. His six centuries redefined batting in ODIs, as he brought an attacking flair to the opening position that few could replicate. His aggressive approach gave Sri Lanka explosive starts, often taking the game away from opponents early.

Jayasuriya’s centuries weren’t just about his power-hitting—they set the tone for Sri Lanka’s Asia Cup dominance. His performances are legendary, making him one of the greatest Asia Cup batsmen ever.

1. Virat Kohli

Virat Kohli’s name shines brightly in Asia Cup history, especially due to his iconic 183 against Pakistan in 2012. This innings is widely regarded as one of the finest in ODI cricket, showcasing Kohli’s unmatched ability to chase under pressure. His skill, focus, and determination turned an intimidating target into a comfortable win for India.

Kohli’s centuries in the Asia Cup highlight his role as the modern master of run chases. His ability to stay calm, rotate strike, and unleash powerful shots at the right time makes him the standout performer of the tournament, and arguably its greatest match-winner.

Conclusion

The Asia Cup has been graced by legends who produced unforgettable centuries. From Ranatunga’s grit to Kohli’s brilliance, these innings showcase not only individual skill but also the spirit of competition in Asian cricket. Each century remains etched in the memories of fans, contributing to the rich legacy of the Asia Cup.

Also Read: Upcoming Cricket Fixtures 2025 | Asia Cup and Key Series

« Previous Afghanistan vs Hong Kong (AFG vs HK) Head To Head Records

Next » AFG vs HK Asia Cup 2025: Pitch Report, Head-to-Head, Playing 11, AI Prediction