Cricket may be known for its finesse and tactics, but there’s something undeniably thrilling about watching a bowler hurl a ball at lightning speed. Over the years, some bowlers have etched their names in the record books with deliveries that pushed the boundaries of human capability.
Let’s take a look at the Top 10 Fastest Bowlers in Cricket History — those who made batsmen tremble and fans go wild!
Know the top 5 Fastest Bowlers in Cricket History
- Shoaib Akhtar (Pakistan) – 161.3 km/h (100.23 mph)
Year: 2003
Match: Pakistan vs England (World Cup)
Nickname: Rawalpindi Express
Shoaib Akhtar holds the official record for the fastest delivery in cricket history. His 161.3 km/h thunderbolt during the 2003 World Cup still remains unbeaten.
- Shaun Tait (Australia) – 161.1 km/h
Year: 2010
Match: Australia vs England
Known for his slingy action and fierce pace, Tait came incredibly close to breaking Akhtar’s record. His consistency in high-speed bowling made him a spectacle to watch.
- Brett Lee (Australia) – 161.1 km/h
Year: 2005
Match: Australia vs New Zealand
One of the most feared bowlers of his era, Brett Lee’s raw pace was matched only by his aggression. He consistently clocked over 150 km/h throughout his career.
- Jeff Thomson (Australia) – 160.6 km/h
Era: 1970s
Notable for: Early speed gun era estimates
Thomson’s action and pace were revolutionary. Even without modern technology, he terrified batsmen in the ‘70s and is often cited as one of the fastest ever.
- Mitchell Starc (Australia) – 160.4 km/h
Year: 2015
Match: Australia vs New Zealand
Left-arm pacer Starc is a modern-day speedster, delivering lethal yorkers and bouncers with grace and ferocity.
These fast bowlers didn’t just bowl fast — they changed the dynamics of the game. Whether it was Shoaib Akhtar breaking the 100 mph barrier or Jofra Archer’s modern-day menace, pace bowling remains one of the most thrilling aspects of cricket.
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