Christchurch, Feb 20: New Zealand captain Brendon McCullum hit the fastest century in the history of Test cricket today, taking just 54 deliveries against Australia in the second Test in Christchurch. [54-ball ton! Is McCullum really retiring? it seems he has just 're-tyred']

The previous record of 56 deliveries was set by West Indies great Viv Richards against England 30 years ago and by Misbah-ul-Haq for Pakistan against Australia in 2014.

McCullum's century took 79 minutes, the fourth fastest on time behind Jack Gregory who hit 100 in 70 minutes against South Africa in 1921.

It was the 12th hundred of McCullum's career and included 17 fours and four sixes.

The 34-year-old, who is playing in his final Test before retiring, went to the middle with New Zealand 32-3 and by the time he reached his record the score had improved to 175-4.

(AFP)