A technical glitch in the speed gun recorded Indian fast bowler Mohammed Siraj delivering a ball at an astonishing 181.6 km/h during Day 1 of the Pink-ball Test against Australia in Adelaide on Friday, December 6.
The error occurred during the 24th over of Australia’s innings when Siraj’s final delivery was mistakenly shown at an unrealistic speed. For context, the fastest delivery ever officially recorded in cricket history is 161.3 km/h, bowled by Pakistan’s Shoaib Akhtar. The incident sparked widespread discussion on social media, with a video of the moment quickly going viral.
Fast bowling is one of cricket’s most exhilarating aspects, where speed and accuracy combine to produce unforgettable moments of pure excitement. Over the years, some exceptional bowlers have redefined the limits of pace, delivering the fastest deliveries in cricket history.
Their extraordinary achievements have left an enduring impact on the game, reflecting their exceptional skill and athleticism. Here is a look at the top 10 fastest balls ever bowled in international cricket.
1. Shoaib Akhtar – 161.3 km/h (100.23 mph)
Nicknamed the Rawalpindi Express, Pakistan’s Shoaib Akhtar holds the record for the fastest ball in cricket. He achieved this feat during the 2003 ICC World Cup against England, clocking an incredible speed of 161.3 km/h.
2. Shaun Tait – 161.1 km/h (100.14 mph)
Australian pacer Shaun Tait delivered the second-fastest ball in cricket history, reaching 161.1 km/h in a 2010 match against England. His fiery pace and aggressive style made him a force to reckon with.
3. Brett Lee – 161.1 km/h (100.14 mph)
Brett Lee, another Australian speedster, matched Tait’s record by bowling a 161.1 km/h delivery against New Zealand in 2005. Known for his relentless speed, Lee remains one of the game’s all-time greats.
4. Jeff Thomson – 160.6 km/h (99.66 mph)
Legendary Australian bowler Jeff Thomson bowled the fourth-fastest ball in cricket history at 160.6 km/h during a match against the West Indies in 1975. His intimidating bowling style earned him a fearsome reputation.
5. Mitchell Starc – 160.4 km/h (99.57 mph)
Mitchell Starc, an Australian left-arm pacer, delivered a 160.4 km/h ball against New Zealand in 2015. His deadly combination of speed and swing makes him a consistent threat to batsmen worldwide.
6. Andy Roberts – 159.5 km/h (99.12 mph)
West Indies fast-bowling legend Andy Roberts recorded a 159.5 km/h delivery against Australia in 1975. Known for his devastating pace and bouncers, Roberts was a pioneer of West Indian fast bowling dominance.
7. Fidel Edwards – 157.7 km/h (97.94 mph)
Fidel Edwards, another West Indies pacer, bowled a 157.7 km/h delivery against South Africa in 2003. His fiery speed and sharp accuracy made him a key player for his team.
8. Mitchell Johnson – 156.8 km/h (97.49 mph)
Mitchell Johnson, a fearsome Australian left-arm bowler, recorded a 156.8 km/h ball in a 2013 match against England. His ability to combine speed with swing terrorized batsmen throughout his career.
9. Mohammad Sami – 156.4 km/h (97.18 mph)
Pakistani fast bowler Mohammad Sami delivered a 156.4 km/h ball against Zimbabwe in 2003. Known for his blistering speed, Sami remains one of the fastest bowlers in cricket history.
10. Shane Bond – 156.4 km/h (97.18 mph)
New Zealand’s Shane Bond matched Sami’s speed with a 156.4 km/h delivery against India in 2003. Renowned for his explosive pace and pinpoint accuracy, Bond was a standout performer during his car.
These bowlers have set new benchmarks in cricket, combining raw speed and skill to challenge the best batsmen. Their incredible feats continue to inspire and thrill cricket fans around the world.
