Canada’s Yuvraj Samra Makes History as Youngest T20 World Cup Centurion in Chennai

In a tournament filled with iconic moments and powerhouse performances, Canada’s Yuvraj Samra delivered one of the most remarkable individual batting feats at the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, held in India and Sri Lanka. Facing New Zealand in a high-pressure Group D fixture at the MA Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai, the 19-year-old Canadian opener not only announced his arrival on the global stage but also redefined cricket history.

Samra’s magnificent innings of 110 runs off 65 deliveries including 11 fours and six sixes didn’t just help Canada post a competitive 173/4 total; it etched his name into the record books as the **youngest ever centurion in Men’s T20 World Cup history. At 19 years and 141 days, he surpassed previous record holders from full-member nations, making this century an unprecedented achievement for an Associate nation player at the T20WC.

The knock, filled with fearless stroke-play and intelligent shot selection, set the tone early. Samra reached his hundred in just 58 balls demonstrating both finesse and power and shared a formidable 116-run opening partnership with captain Dilpreet Bajwa (36). This stand laid a solid foundation for Canada against a seasoned New Zealand attack, giving the underdogs a chance to compete fiercely despite the eventual outcome of the match.

While Canada ultimately fell to an eight-wicket defeat with New Zealand sealing their Super 8 qualification thanks to a strong chase led by seasoned batters, Samra’s landmark century stood out as the most compelling story of the night. His innings not only showcased personal brilliance but also highlighted the growth of Canadian cricket on the international stage.

Samra’s name, inspired by Indian batting legend Yuvraj Singh, resonated fittingly throughout the stadium as he powered through boundaries and sixes with remarkable composure. Despite his team not securing victory, the knock was a watershed moment for Associate cricket, shining a spotlight on talent that often goes under-noticed outside the traditional powerhouses of the sport.

Cricket analysts and fans around the world were quick to recognise the significance of Samra’s achievement. Not only did he become the youngest centurion in a T20 World Cup, but he also recorded one of the highest individual scores by an associate nation batter against a full ICC member side, underlining the potential depth of cricketing talent beyond the established Test nations.

Samra’s performance is expected to inspire a new generation of cricketers from non-traditional cricketing nations and strengthen calls for greater support and opportunities for Associate teams on the world stage. It also emphasises the evolving landscape of international cricket, where young talents from diverse backgrounds can emerge and excel on one of the sport’s biggest platforms.

As the T20 World Cup 2026 continues to deliver thrilling contests, record-breaking feats and global attention, Canada’s young star has already left an unforgettable mark and the cricket world will be watching closely as Samra’s promising career unfolds.