Fastest Balls in Cricket History: Top 5 Speed Records Ever Bowled
Fast bowling is one of the most thrilling parts of cricket. It blends raw pace and precision to create unforgettable moments. Over the years, several bowlers have pushed the limits. They have clocked jaw-dropping speeds that redefined the game. Their feats showcased their extraordinary skill and athleticism.
Here, we take a look at the top 5 fastest deliveries ever bowled in international cricket history.
1. Shoaib Akhtar – 161.3 km/h
Topping the list is Shoaib Akhtar, famously known as the ‘Rawalpindi Express.’ The Pakistani pacer made history in the 2003 ICC World Cup. He bowled the fastest delivery ever, at 161.3 km/h (100.23 mph).
This feat came against England in Cape Town. Akhtar’s raw pace and presence left batters struggling to cope. Akhtar is a symbol of speed and aggression in cricket. His record still stands today.
2. Shaun Tait – 161.1 km/h
In 2010, Shaun Tait, an Aussie speedster, bowled the second-fastest delivery in cricket history. It was in a match against England. Tait’s ball clocked in at 161.1 km/h (100.1 mph), cementing his reputation as one of the fiercest pacers of his time.
Tait’s fiery bowling was a constant threat to batters. Known for his pace and accuracy, it was deadly in the shorter formats of the game.
3. Brett Lee – 161.1 km/h
Brett Lee, another legendary Australian pacer, shares the second-fastest record with Shaun Tait. In 2005, Lee bowled a delivery at 161.1 km/h (100.1 mph) against New Zealand, etching his name into cricketing history.
Lee’s relentless aggression and pace made him a nightmare for batters worldwide. His ability to sustain high speeds over long spells made him one of the greatest fast bowlers of all time.
4. Jeff Thomson – 160.6 km/h
Jeff Thomson is a pioneer of extreme pace bowling. He set the cricket world ablaze in 1975. In a match against the West Indies, an Australian bowler bowled a thunderous ball at 160.6 km/h (99.8 mph). It is the fourth-fastest in history.
Thomson’s strange bowling style and great speed made him feared. He is a legend in cricket.
5. Mitchell Starc – 160.4 km/h
Modern-day Australian great Mitchell Starc also finds his place in this elite list. In a thrilling 2015 match against New Zealand, Starc bowled a 160.4 km/h (99.57 mph) delivery. It was the fifth-fastest ball in international cricket.
Starc’s extreme pace and swing make him a top bowler of his generation. His lethal yorkers and fast balls are key to Australia’s success in white-ball cricket.
The fastest deliveries in cricket history show the skill and will of the bowlers who achieved them. Shoaib Akhtar’s record 161.3 km/h ball. The fiery pace of Aussie greats like Brett Lee and Shaun Tait. These moments defined eras and thrilled fans worldwide.
Fast bowling is a thrilling spectacle. These legendary deliveries are milestones in the sport’s rich history.
