Fast bowling is widely regarded as the most difficult aspect of the game to master. Bowling at high speed with precision can be a very difficult job. Many fast bowlers have made a name for themselves with a few of their weapons in the past. In this article, we will discuss some of the fastest balls delivered in cricket history.
#3. Shaun Tait– 161.1 kmph
Shaun Tait’s physique was muscular and beefy, with broad shoulders and a slinging action that complemented his short run-up. Tait, known for his erratic bowling, did not have enough international success for Australia. However, he was one of the quickest bowlers during the 2010s. He bowled his fastest delivery against England in 2010.
The ball was delivered at a speed of 161.1 km/hr. Later in his career, the right-arm pacer also broke the 100mph barrier against Pakistan in a T20I game in Melbourne. Despite his brief career, Shaun Tait will be remembered as one of cricket’s fastest bowlers.
#2. Brett Lee– 161.1 kmph
Brett Lee was the fastest Australian bowler in history and the world’s second-fastest bowler. Aside from his accuracy, most batters were troubled by his fast pace. In 2005, at Napier, he broke the 100-mile barrier with a delivery of 161.1 km/hr against New Zealand.
The pacer had every trick under his belt, from a slower ball to a fearsome yorker. His lethal bouncers and blistering pace, combined with devious eye contact with batters, made him the complete fast-bowling package. Lee was instrumental in Australia’s World Cup victories in 2003 and 2007.
#1. Shoaib Akhtar– 161.3 kmph
Shoaib Akhtar, also known as the ‘Rawalpindi Express,’ is the fastest bowler in cricket. He had an unmatched runup, frequently running from the boundary line and bowling his delivery. Akhtar had a natural pace and bounce thanks to his slinging action, which was greatly aided by his rugged build.
During the Cricket World Cup 2003, Pakistan’s right-arm pacer bowled the fastest delivery in international cricket. Akhtar, who has always enjoyed bowling fast, struck 161.3 km/h against England in Capetown (South Africa). With this delivery, he became the first player in cricket history to break the 100-mile mark.