OTD 2002: Shoaib Akhtar became the first man to break the 100mph barrier

Shoaib Akhtar is one of the most intimidating fast bowlers to have played the game of cricket. He had a long run-up, often starting near the boundary ropes and gradually accelerating like a sprinting cheetah. Akhtar was well-built, which made him look all the more terrifying for batters when he charged towards them to bowl at speeds consistently over 90 mph.

Akhtar also had a high, explosive leap just before the crease, and the hyper-extension in his elbow, which was a natural structural abnormality, allowed his arm to act like a whip, sending the ball at serious pace. There were days when he was a bit wayward, but when on song, he would run through some of the finest batting line-ups in his time.

Akhtar, nicknamed the “Rawalpindi Express,” is recognised as the first bowler to break the 100 mph barrier, achieving this feat in an ODI against New Zealand at the Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore on April 27, 2002. This record-breaking delivery was bowled to Craig McMillan. It was a 100.04 mph (161 kph) thunderbolt that captivated the cricket fraternity.

Pakistan were defending a 279-run target in that game. Akhtar bowled four overs and conceded 23 runs. While his pace was consistently in the 150s, he failed to pick up a wicket. However, Pakistan went on to win the match by 66 runs, dismissing the visiting side for 212 in 45.4 overs.

Also, Akhtar holds the record for the fastest ball officially recorded in cricket history. During the Pakistan versus England match at the Newlands Stadium, Cape Town, in the 2003 ODI World Cup on February 22, Akhtar bowled a delivery at 161.3 kph (100.23 mph). Nick Knight was the batter who faced that ball. It was the last ball of the fourth over, steaming in towards middle and leg stump. Knight managed to get his bat down in time and drop it towards square leg. The Three Lions scored 246/8, batting first. Akhtar conceded 63 runs in nine overs and picked up the wicket of Michael Vaughan. In reply, the Asian giants were rolled over for 112. 

Akhtar played 46 Tests, 163 ODIs, and 15 T20Is during his international career. He finished with 178, 247, and 19 wickets across the three formats, respectively. He also played three games in the Indian Premier League, picking up five wickets, including a heroic effort against the Delhi Daredevils (Now Delhi Capitals) in the inaugural season in 2008. He retired from international cricket following the 2011 ODI World Cup. Akhtar, who is 50 years old, has written a book, hosted shows, and also has a YouTube channel, where he analyses matches and interacts with his fans.

Disclaimer: This Exclusive News is based on the author’s understanding, analysis, and instinct. As you review this information, consider the points mentioned and form your own conclusions.

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