PRETORIA, South Africa (AP):Adam Gilchrist hit the fastest half-century in Twenty20 cricket yesterday to steer the Deccan Chargers into the Indian Premier League final following a six-wicket victory over Delhi Daredevils.

Gilchrist scored 85 after reaching his 50 from 17 balls to justify his decision to bowl first as Deccan chased down Delhi's 153-8 with 14 balls to spare at Centurion Park. The former Australia wicketkeeper belted 10 boundaries and five sixes in 35 balls before being dismissed by leg-spinner Amit Mishra in the 10th over.

"It's been a great experience to come back after a year off," Gilchrist said. "Our plans on this ground worked well for us. The guys played extremely well."