NEW DELHI: Lucknow Super Giants batter Nicholas Pooran continues to redefine power-hitting in the IPL, and this time he has moved past Vaibhav Sooryavanshi in one of the league’s most explosive batting records.With his breathtaking 16-ball fifty against Mumbai Indians at the Wankhede Stadium on Monday, Pooran now has five IPL half-centuries scored in fewer than 20 balls — the second-most in tournament history. Only Abhishek Sharma, with six, stands ahead of him on the elite list.

Most 50s in less than 20 balls in IPL:

Pooran’s latest blitz was more than just another quickfire innings. It felt like a statement. Batting at No. 3 for the first time this season for Lucknow Super Giants, the left-hander looked completely unleashed from the moment he walked in.

Fastest fifties for LSG (by balls)

He raced to 63 off just 21 deliveries, smashing one four and eight sixes at a staggering strike rate of 300.The landmark moment came in the 8th over when he pulled a short ball from Deepak Chahar over fine leg for six to bring up his fifty in only 16 balls. The shot itself summed up the innings — fearless, inventive, and brutally clean.The celebration also hinted at the significance of the knock. Pooran blew a kiss before raising his bat to acknowledge the crowd, almost as if sending a message to the team management that this role suits him perfectly.

On a night where even bowlers like Jasprit Bumrah struggled for control, Pooran turned the Wankhede into his personal launchpad.If this innings is any indication, Pooran at No. 3 could become one of the most dangerous tactical shifts of IPL 2026.