BBL 2023-24: Which players have scored a century? — Image via Getty

The Big Bash League (BBL 2023-24) has unfolded as a cricketing extravaganza, captivating fans with dazzling displays of batting brilliance. From audacious strokes to breathtaking power-hitting, the tournament has showcased the T20 format’s essence.

As the league advances into its mid-stage, a captivating and somewhat unexpected narrative has emerged – despite the jaw-dropping performances, not a single player has managed to breach the century mark.

The absence of a hundred has created an intriguing storyline, leaving fans eagerly anticipating that momentous innings. Let’s delve into the top five highest scorers of the season, exploring the near-centuries and the players who have come closest to breaking the century drought.

Players who have come closer to century in BBL 2023-24

1. Colin Munro – 99* (Brisbane Heat)

Colin Munro, the explosive New Zealand batsman, came agonizingly close to notching up the first century of BBL 2023-24. In a scintillating display against the Stars in Brisbane on December 7, Munro’s unbeaten 99 off 61 balls showcased his T20 prowess.

The innings included nine boundaries and five towering sixes, leaving fans at the edge of their seats. Munro’s innings played a crucial role in setting up a formidable total of 214 for the Heat, falling just a single run short of the elusive century.

2. Aaron Hardie – 85* (Perth Scorchers)

Another player who flirted with the idea of a century was Aaron Hardie of the Perth Scorchers. Facing the Hurricanes in Perth on December 20, Hardie’s unbeaten 85 off 45 balls was a breathtaking exhibition of power-hitting.

With a strike rate of 188.88, Hardie’s innings comprised four fours and an impressive five sixes. While falling short of a hundred, Hardie’s innings left a lasting impact, contributing significantly to the Scorchers’ triumh.

3. James Vince – 83 (Sydney Sixers)

James Vince, the English batsman representing the Sydney Sixers, brought his A-game against the Stars in Sydney on December 26. Vince’s innings of 83 off 55 balls was a masterclass in shot selection and timing. With eight boundaries and two sixes, Vince’s innings was a crucial anchor for the Sixers.

While missing out on the century, Vince’s performance showcased his ability to control an innings and build partnerships. However, the team faced defeat in that match.

4. Matthew Short – 82 (Adelaide Strikers)

Matthew Short of the Adelaide Strikers provided yet another near-century spectacle during the encounter against the Thunder in Adelaide on December 19. Short’s 82 off 41 balls featured a remarkable strike rate of 200.00, reflecting his aggressive intent at the crease.

With five boundaries and six sixes, Short’s innings was a display of raw power. Although not reaching the hundred, Short’s innings set the tone for a win for the Strikers.

5. Matthew Wade – 82 (Hobart Hurricanes)

Matthew Wade, the Hobart Hurricanes skipper, also played a crucial knock, scoring 82 off 50 balls against the Renegades in Hobart on December 23.

Wade’s innings included nine boundaries and three sixes, showcasing his ability to lead from the front. Despite missing out on a century, Wade’s innings were instrumental in steering the Hurricanes to a formidable win.

The absence of a century in BBL 2023-24 has added a layer of suspense to the tournament. The top five highest scorers have tantalizingly approached the three-figure mark, leaving fans yearning for that landmark innings.

As the season progresses, the question remains: who will be the first to break the century drought and etch their name in the annals of BBL history? The upcoming matches promise more excitement, with batsmen eager to convert their near-centuries into memorable hundreds, adding a new chapter to the captivating story of BBL 2023-24.