Who is the fastest bowler in cricket history?
Let’s delve into the annals of history and discover who are the fastest bowlers in the world of cricket, those whose sheer speed struck fear into the hearts of batsmen.
Number 10 – Shane Bond (156.4 Kph)
At number 10, we have New Zealand’s fiery fast bowler, Shane Bond. Bond was known for his exceptionally smooth action. He played international cricket for New Zealand from 2002 to 2010. He bowled his fastest delivery in the 2003 ICC World Cup, reaching a speed of 156.4 kph.
Number 9 – Mohammad Sami (156.4 Kph)
Number 9 on the list of all-time fastest bowlers is Pakistan’s right-arm fast bowler and yorker specialist, Mohammad Sami. At one point, Mohammad Sami was Imran Khan’s favorite fast bowler. He had all the qualities to become the world’s top fast bowler. He delivered his fastest ball at 156.4 kph. Sami also bowled at a speed of 163 kph against India, but the ICC did not recognize it.
Number 8 – Mitchell Johnson (156.8 Kph)
At number 8 is Australian thunderbolt Mitchell Johnson. Johnson was a late bloomer who performed to his true potential in the latter part of his career. His 150+ kph bouncers and yorkers would leave batsmen sleepless. His fastest delivery was 156.8 kph.
Number 7 – Fidel Edwards (157.7 Kph)
West Indian fast bowler Fidel Edwards ranks 7th. Known for his slingy action and ability to swing the ball, Edwards bowled his fastest delivery at 157.7 kph against South Africa in 2003.
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Number 6 – Andy Roberts (159.5 Kph)
At number 6 is another West Indian bowler, Andy Roberts. He bowled his fastest delivery at 159.5 kph against Australia in 1975. Roberts is considered one of the most complete bowlers of all time.
Number 5 – Mitchell Starc (160.4 Kph)
At number 5 is one of the best bowlers of the present era, Mitchell Starc. His in-swinging yorkers with both the new and old ball are loved by cricket fans worldwide. He bowled his fastest delivery against New Zealand in 2015, clocking 160.4 kph.
Number 4 – Jeff Thomson (160.6 Kph)
Australian legend Jeff Thomson comes in at number 4. He bowled his fastest delivery at 160.6 kph.
Now, we move to the top 3 fastest bowlers who have clicked 100 mph in cricket history.
Number 3 – Brett Lee (161.1 Kph)
At number 3 is Brett Lee. Lee was among the few bowlers who could consistently bowl at 150+ kph. Despite numerous injuries, he never compromised on his pace. His fastest delivery was recorded at 161.1 kph.
Number 2 – Shaun Tait (161.1 Kph)
At number 2 is another Australian fast bowler, who also served as Pakistan’s bowling coach. Yes, you guessed it right—Shaun Tait. His fastest delivery was 161.1 kph.
Number 1 – Shoaib Akhtar (161.3 Kph)
At number 1 is the king of fast bowling, the speed gun of Pakistan, the Rawalpindi Express, the one and only Shoaib Akhtar. Watching Akhtar take his run-up from the boundary and sprint towards the batsman was one of the most beautiful sights in cricket. Fans would buy tickets specifically to watch Shoaib Akhtar charge towards the batsman. He is considered a superstar not only in Pakistan but in the world of cricket overall. The best batsmen feared facing Shoaib Akhtar. He bowled many dangerous spells and instilled fear in the hearts of batsmen. He bowled his fastest delivery in the 2003 ICC World Cup against England, recording a speed of 161.3 kph, which remains the fastest ball in cricket history.
In conclusion, the world of cricket has witnessed some extraordinary fast bowlers whose speeds have left an indelible mark on the sport. These bowlers, with their sheer pace and skill, have thrilled fans and terrified batsmen, creating unforgettable moments in cricket history. Their legacy continues to inspire new generations of fast bowlers who aspire to match their incredible speeds and make their mark on the game.
