Mumbai: Quinton de Kock scripted history in the Indian Premier League 2026 season by smashing a magnificent unbeaten century and achieving multiple milestones, surpassing legends like MS Dhoni and Rohit Sharma in the record books.
Playing his first match of the season for Mumbai Indians, the South African wicketkeeper-batter delivered a sensational 112 not out off 60 balls, leading a remarkable recovery after his side slumped to 15/2 in the early overs.
Breaks Dhoni’s record among wicketkeepers
With his latest knock, de Kock moved ahead of MS Dhoni in the list of most 50-plus scores by designated wicketkeepers in IPL history. He now has 25 such scores, overtaking Dhoni’s tally of 24.
Only KL Rahul remains ahead on the elite list with 31 fifty-plus scores, underlining de Kock’s consistency as a top-order wicketkeeper-batter in the league.
This achievement further cements his reputation as one of the most prolific overseas performers in IPL history.
First overseas player with centuries for three teams
De Kock also became the first foreign player to score IPL centuries for three different franchises—Delhi Capitals, Lucknow Super Giants, and Mumbai Indians.
He joins an exclusive club of players who have achieved this rare feat, alongside Indian stars KL Rahul and Sanju Samson, highlighting his adaptability across teams and conditions.
Record innings for Mumbai Indians
The unbeaten 112 is now the highest individual score by a Mumbai Indians batter in the first innings of an IPL match, surpassing Rohit Sharma’s 109 against Kolkata Knight Riders in 2012.
While Sanath Jayasuriya still holds the overall franchise record with 114 not out, de Kock’s innings stands out for its impact under pressure.
His knock, which included eight fours and seven sixes, showcased a blend of power hitting and precise strokeplay, particularly dominating the leg side while maintaining control on the off side.
Crucial partnership with Naman Dhir
De Kock found solid support in Naman Dhir, who scored a composed 50. The duo stitched together a vital 132-run partnership for the third wicket, stabilising the innings and setting a platform for a competitive total of 195/6.
Coming in at a time when Mumbai Indians were under immense pressure, the partnership not only revived the innings but also shifted momentum back in their favour.
Early blows and recovery
Mumbai Indians had a shaky start, losing wickets early in the powerplay. Arshdeep Singh struck twice with the new ball, dismissing Ryan Rickelton and Suryakumar Yadav cheaply.
With Tilak Varma also failing to make an impact, Mumbai Indians promoted Naman Dhir up the order—a move that paid dividends.
Dhir, though fortunate with a couple of reprieves, showed resilience and complemented de Kock effectively with his aggressive strokeplay.
Missed opportunities and fielding lapses
Punjab Kings had their chances to break the partnership but failed to capitalise. Yuzvendra Chahal dropped a straightforward catch, while a missed run-out opportunity by Shreyas Iyer allowed de Kock to continue his innings.
These lapses proved costly as de Kock went on to convert his innings into a match-defining century.
Conclusion
Quinton de Kock’s sensational knock not only rescued Mumbai Indians from a precarious position but also etched his name in IPL history with multiple records. His ability to deliver under pressure once again highlighted his value as a world-class performer.
While the team’s overall performance may still be under scrutiny, de Kock’s innings stands as a reminder of individual brilliance that can redefine matches and rewrite record books in the IPL.