In the unforgiving arena of T20 World Cup cricket, where momentum swings faster than a yorker at the death, consistency is a rare and priceless currency. However, a select group of batsmen defied the vicissitudes of the format to produce three consecutive fifty-plus scores on the biggest stage.
The last name to join this elite club is Sri Lanka’s Where in MandyOn February 15, 2026, he made history with 51 points against Australia. With that, he joined the select list. Mahela Jayawardene and Virat Kohli – players who turn consistency into an art form under great pressure.
A rare feat of scoring three consecutive 50-plus scores in T20 World Cups
Scoring a half-century in T20 cricket requires precision and calculated aggression. Making it through three consecutive matches in the T20 World Cup requires a lot more – mental toughness, tactical awareness and the ability to thrive in a global scrutiny environment.
Among the many editions of the tournament, only five batsmen have achieved this milestone. Their performances not only influenced match results but also shaped campaigns and defined legacies.
Action emphasizes more than just numbers. This shows his adaptability on different pitches, bowling attacks and match situations. Whether setting up finishes or chasing steep targets, these strikes are delivered when it matters most.
1) Mahela Jayawardene: Pioneer of consistency
Former Sri Lankan captain Mahela Jayawardene was the pioneer. He became the first player in T20 World Cup history to score fifty-plus knocks three times in a row during the 2010 edition.
At a time when T20 cricket was still developing and his batting approaches were largely experimental, Jayawardene’s refined batting was eye-catching. His ability to anchor the innings while accelerating at key moments has made him a reliable pillar for Sri Lanka.
The importance of his achievement cannot be underestimated. In an era when teams are still deciphering the shortest format, Jayawardene has shown that classic technique and temperament can thrive even in high-octane T20 contests. His streak set the stage for future batters to pursue similar milestones.
2) Virat Kohli: Master of big runs
When discussions turn to consistency in T20 World Cups, Virat Kohli’s name inevitably comes to the fore.
The former India captain joined Jayawardene in this elite list with three consecutive half-centuries covering the 2016 and 2021 editions. Kohli hit a double-hander in the knockout matches of India’s 2016 tournament before adding another in the opening game of the 2021 edition.
His consistency has cemented his reputation as one of the most reliable performers in ICC tournaments. Kohli’s ability to accelerate chases, spin the strike under pressure and open boundaries at crucial moments has defined his T20 World Cup legacy.
Interestingly, Kohli also holds the relevant distinction of being the first player to score three or more fifties in three separate T20 World Cups (2014, 2016 and 2022). This wider streak cements his position as the most reliable batsman in the history of the tournament.
3) Babar Azam: Pakistan’s run machine in 2021
Babar Azam added his name to this exclusive club during the T20 World Cup 2021, with three consecutive half-centuries to take Pakistan deep into the tournament.
As captain then, Babar combined leadership with impeccable batting form. His crisp cover drives, controlled aggression and calm presence at the crease anchored Pakistan’s innings time and again.
Finishing as the top run-scorer of that edition, Babar’s consistency was instrumental in shaping Pakistan’s campaign. His achievement placed him alongside the most respected names in world cricket and cemented his status as one of the best batsmen of the modern era.
4) KL Rahul: India’s graceful contributor
KL Rahul achieved this feat in 2021, becoming only the second Indian to score fifty-plus three times in a row in the fourth overall in T20 World Cup.
Opening the innings, Rahul has provided India with consistent starts during a tough campaign. His adaptability stood out, whether it was stepping up during power plays or stabilizing innings after early setbacks.
Rahul’s achievement highlighted India’s batting depth and underscored their ability to perform on cricket’s grandest stage. Although often highlighted, his consistency in this publication has earned him a well-deserved place in this elite company.
5) Kusal Mendis: The newest entrant
The T20 World Cup 2026 admitted its fifth member to this rare club – Kusal Mendis.
His third consecutive fifty-plus score came against Australia at the Pallekele International Cricket Stadium on 15 February. Chasing a competitive 181, Sri Lanka needed composure at the top and Mendis delivered.
Scoring 51 off 38 balls, he hit his half-century off just 35 deliveries, hitting six boundaries and a six. More importantly, he forged a pivotal 97-run partnership for the second wicket with Pathum Nissanka that set the tone for Sri Lanka’s chase.
Mendis now stands as the second Sri Lankan in T20 World Cup history after Jayawardene to achieve three consecutive half-centuries. His performances were central to Sri Lanka’s strong showing in the 2026 edition and are indicative of his growing stature in international cricket.
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