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Chris Gayle equalled the world record for the fastest Twenty20 half century during theMelbourne Renegades’ loss to the Adelaide Strikers.

Gayle pulverised the Strikers’ bowlers to all corners of the ground, reaching his 50 from just 12 deliveries, equalling the record set by Yuvraj Singh against England in Durban in 2007.

The Jamaican veteran’s score line read: 2.6666266(free hit)416

Gayle’s innings smashed the previous record for the fastest Big Bash League 50 — 18 deliveries, jointly held by Tim Ludeman and Chris Lynn.

He was eventually dismissed for 56 from 17 deliveries after 26 minutes of pulsating action, skying a catch off the bowling of Travis Head.

Gayle already holds the record for the fastest Twenty20 century, raising a ton from an incredible 30 deliveries for Royal Challengers Bangalore against Pune Warriors in 2013.

The left-handed took to the crease aware he could be playing his last ever innings in the BBL.

Cricket Australia is reportedly considering blocking Gayle from future tournaments after his infamous “Don’t blush, baby” interview with Channel 10 presenter Mel McLaughlin.

Gayle declined a post-innings interview with the host broadcaster, choosing to sign autographs for kids on the fence instead.

Gayle has amassed an unparalleled 8,623 runs from 233 Twenty20 matches at an average in excess of 43 and a strike rate approaching 150.

He has scored 260 runs at 32.50 for the Renegades this season.

Gayle is representing his third Australian domestic T20 side, having enjoyed stints with Western Australia and the Sydney Thunder before signing with the Renegades.