Shepherd’s 14-Ball Fifty Stuns CSK in IPL 2025

BENGALURU, India – Romario Shepherd of the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) made history on Saturday night by scoring a rapid half-century in just 14 balls against the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium.

The explosive innings took place during their IPL 2025 match, where Shepherd’s performance turned the game’s momentum in a crucial moment. After a modest start, RCB’s score was only 159 for 5 as they headed into the 19th over. That’s when Shepherd unleashed his full power, hitting a total of 33 runs off Khaleel Ahmed in that over, which would later become the most expensive over of the season.

Shepherd’s onslaught included three sixes and a four off Khaleel, who struggled to contain the West Indian’s powerful batting. The unfortunate bowler conceded a no-ball during the over, allowing Shepherd a free hit. Although that free hit resulted in a dot ball, it did not hinder Shepherd’s aggression as he followed it with another boundary.

“It was pretty incredible to watch. I actually didn’t think he middled a lot of balls, but that just shows the man’s power,” said Jacob Bethell, who also scored a half-century earlier in the match.

With his impressive innings, Shepherd tied the second-joint fastest 50 in IPL history, joining KL Rahul and Pat Cummins. The record for the fastest fifty, of just 13 balls, remains with Yashasvi Jaiswal.

Shepherd’s performance came at a turning point for RCB, which had struggled after an explosive start. They had a commanding score of 71 for no loss at one point, but that quickly faded as they managed only 88 runs in the following 12 overs before Shepherd’s fireworks.

Shepherd’s quick assault left a lasting mark not only on the match but on the IPL record books as well. Following the innings, RCB fans celebrated his contribution, marking a memorable night in the tournament.