IPL 2026: 5 pacers who can clock 150 kmph

Raw pace has always been one of the biggest attractions in the Indian Premier League and in fast paced T20 cricket. While big sixes and innovative strokeplay grab headlines, nothing excites fans quite like a fast bowler steaming in and breaching the coveted 150 kmph mark. 

Over the years, the league has witnessed some of the quickest bowlers in world cricket, consistently troubling batters with sheer speed and aggression. With IPL 2026 around the corner, several pacers are once again expected to light up the speed gun and make life difficult for even the best in the business.

Here are 5 speedsters who can clock 150+ kmph in IPL 2026:

5. Anrich Nortje (LSG)

One of the fastest bowlers in modern-day cricket, Nortje has consistently touched the 150 kmph mark across formats. Known for his skiddy pace and sharp bouncers, the South African quick can be a real handful on any surface. If he finds rhythm early in the tournament, he could once again be among the fastest bowlers this season.

This year, he will represent Rishabh Pant’s Lucknow Super Giants after being bought for INR 2.00 crore at the IPL 2026 auction. A fully fit Nortje can even clock 160 kmph deliveries on a given day.

4. Mitchell Starc (DC)

A seasoned campaigner, Mitchell Starc combines pace with lethal swing, making him a dangerous proposition with the new ball. While injuries have interrupted his IPL journey in the past, the left-arm pacer still has the ability to bowl a ball up beyond 145-150 kmph when needed. His experience and ability to deliver in crunch moments make him a key asset.  

The left-arm pacer from Australia will be donning the Delhi Capitals jersey for the upcoming season, and having breached the coveted 160kmph mark in international cricket previously, Starc can easily clock in 150+ deliveries at will.

3. Umran Malik (KKR)

Often referred to as India’s pace sensation, Umran made headlines for regularly breaching the 150 kmph barrier. His raw speed is his biggest weapon, and on his day, he can rattle any batting lineup. Consistency remains the key, but if he gets it right, he could once again dominate the speed charts. He will be representing the three-time IPL champions Kolkata Knight Riders this season, and all the limelight will be on his fitness after a string of injuries.

If fit, Umran can easily breach the 150 km/h mark. He had clocked the fourth fastest delivery in IPL history in 2022, when he bowled a 157 km/h delivery.

2. Lockie Ferguson (PBKS)

Ferguson has built a reputation as one of the quickest bowlers in T20 cricket. With a smooth action and the ability to generate steep bounce, he has frequently clocked speeds in excess of 150 kmph. His variations, coupled with pace, make him a wicket-taking option throughout the innings.

The New Zealand pacer will represent Punjab Kings in the 2026 IPL season and can be a potent bowling option for them. If anyone can breach the 150 km/h mark this IPL, Lockie can be the frontrunner in that list. Having previously bowled the third fastest ball in the IPL ever in 2022, he still processes the same speed.

1. Mayank Yadav (LSG)

The young Indian pacer has quickly risen to prominence with his express pace. Mayank Yadav, who entered the IPL arena in 2024, stunned everyone by consistently hitting the 150 kmph mark, showcasing both speed and control. If he stays fit, he could be the fastest bowler of IPL 2026 and a genuine game-changer for his side.

Coming after lengthy layoffs due to injuries, it will be interesting to see whether he still carries the same zip and speed he once had before the injuries.