Top 10 Fastest Balls in Cricket History of All Time

Cricket is more than just a battle between bat and ball—it’s a thrilling showcase of skill, precision, and raw pace. Among its most electrifying elements is fast bowling, where bowlers unleash deliveries at lightning speeds, pushing the limits of human performance. From searing yorkers to intimidating bouncers, the fastest ball in cricket history has left both fans and batsmen in awe.

But what is the fastest ball in cricket history? Who is the fastest bowler in the world? What makes these deliveries so unique? In this blog, we dive deep into the world of speed as we explore the top 10 fastest ball in cricket history, featuring iconic names like Shoaib Akhtar, Brett Lee, and Shaun Tait—legends who’ve redefined the art of fast bowling.

We’ll break down:

• The speediest ball in cricket history and how it was clocked
• The top speed ball in cricket and what makes it nearly unplayable
• The fastest ball in ODI, and how match formats affect pace
• How pitch conditions, weather, and training regimens contribute to those jaw-dropping speeds
• The impact of high speed bowling on modern batting techniques

Whether you’re a seasoned cricket lover or just curious about the world’s fastest ball, this blog will give you an adrenaline-filled tour of the fastest ball delivery in cricket history and the bowlers who made it happen. So, if you’ve ever wondered who bowled the fastest ball in world cricket or what the highest speed of a ball in cricket is, you’re in the right place.

Let’s gear up and witness the fury of the fastest ball bawlers in cricket history!

List of Top 10 Fastest Balls in Cricket History

In the history of cricket, there have been several bowlers known for their incredible pace and the ability to deliver lightning-fast deliveries. Let’s take a look at the top 10 fastest balls ever recorded in cricket:

These bowlers have left a lasting impact on the game with their incredible speed and accuracy. Let’s explore each bowler’s record-breaking delivery in more detail.

1. Shoaib Akhtar – 161.3 km/h

Shoaib Akhtar, also known as the “Rawalpindi Express,” holds the record for the fastest ball in world cricket ever . During the 2003 ICC World Cup, Akhtar bowled a delivery that clocked at an astonishing speed of 161.3 km/h (100.23 mph). This feat solidified his reputation as the fastest bowler of all time.

Akhtar’s blistering pace and aggressive bowling style made him a force to be reckoned with on the cricket field. He had the ability to intimidate even the best batsmen with his sheer speed and accuracy. His record-breaking delivery against England in the World Cup showcased his exceptional talent and cemented his place in cricket history as one of the greatest fast bowlers to have ever played the game.

2. Brett Lee – 161.1 km/h

Brett Lee, the former Australian fast bowler, is known for his explosive pace and aggressive style of play. He delivered the second-fastest ball in cricket history, reaching a speed of 161.1 km/h (100.14 mph) during a match against New Zealand in 2005.

Lee’s thunderbolt delivery showcased his ability to generate immense speed and his skill in troubling even the most experienced batsmen. His contributions to the Australian cricket team, particularly during the Cricket World Cup, were instrumental in their success. Lee’s ability to consistently bowl at high speeds and his aggressive approach made him one of the most feared bowlers in the world.

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3. Shaun Tait – 161.1 km/h

Shaun Tait, the former Australian fast bowler, was known for his explosive pace and accuracy. He bowled the third-fastest ball in cricket history, reaching a speed of 161.1 km/h (100.14 mph) during a match against England in 2010.

Tait’s blazing fast ball was a testament to his natural talent and exceptional cricket ball speed. His ability to consistently bowl at such high speeds made him a formidable opponent for any batsman. Tait’s contributions to the Australian cricket team, particularly during the World Cup, were invaluable, and he remains one of the fastest bowlers in cricket history.

4. Jeff Thomson – 160.6 km/h

Jeff Thomson, the former Australian fast bowler, was known for his fearsome pace and aggressive bowling style. He bowled the fourth-fastest ball ever recorded in cricket, reaching a speed of 160.6 km/h (99.66 mph) during a match against the West Indies in 1975.

Thomson’s unique slingy action and raw pace made him a nightmare for batsmen to face. His ability to consistently generate such high speeds was unmatched during his time. Thomson’s contributions to Australian cricket and his impact on the game as one of the fastest bowlers in history are truly remarkable.

5. Mitchell Starc – 160.4 km/h

Mitchell Starc, the Australian left-arm fast bowler, is known for his searing pace and ability to swing the ball. He bowled the fifth-fastest ball in cricket history, reaching a speed of 160.4 km/h (99.57 mph) during a match against New Zealand in 2015.

Starc’s speedy spell showcased his ability to generate immense pace and movement with the ball. His left-arm swing combined with his blistering speed made him a formidable bowler in all formats of the game. Starc’s contributions to the Australian cricket team and his consistent performances in world cricket have solidified his place as one of the best fast bowlers of his generation.

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6. Andy Roberts – 159.5 km/h

Andy Roberts, the former West Indian fast bowler, was one of the quickest bowlers of his time. He bowled the sixth-fastest ball ever recorded in cricket, reaching a speed of 159.5 km/h (99.12 mph) during a match against Australia in 1975.

Roberts’ lethal bouncers and searing pace made him a force to be reckoned with on the cricket field. His ability to consistently bowl at such high speeds and maintain accuracy was a key factor in the success of the West Indies cricket team during his era. Roberts remains one of the legends of fast bowling in the history of the sport.

7. Fidel Edwards – 157.7 km/h

Fidel Edwards, the former West Indian fast bowler, was known for his fiery pace and accurate bowling. He bowled the seventh-fastest ball in cricket history, reaching a speed of 157.7 km/h (97.94 mph) during a match against South Africa in 2003.

Edwards’ rapid ball showcased his ability to generate immense speed and his skill in troubling even the best batsmen. His contributions to the West Indies cricket team, particularly during his prime, were significant. Edwards’ ability to consistently bowl at high speeds and his accuracy made him a valuable asset for his team.

8. Mitchell Johnson – 156.8 km/h

Mitchell Johnson, the former Australian fast bowler, was known for his incredible speed and accuracy. He bowled the eight-fastest delivery in cricket history, reaching a speed of 156.8 km/h (97.04 mph) during a match against England in 2013.

Johnson’s speed rush showcased his ability to generate immense pace and his skill in troubling batsmen. His contributions to the Australian cricket team, particularly during his prime, were exceptional. Johnson’s ability to consistently bowl at high speeds and his accuracy made him one of the greatest fast bowlers of his generation.

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9. Mohammad Sami – 156.4 km/h

Mohd. Sami, Pakistan’s fast bowler, has made a name for himself with his high-velocity deliveries. He bowled the ninth-fastest delivery in cricket history, reaching a speed of 156.4 km/h (97.1 mph) during a match against Zimbabwe in 2003.

Sami’s high-velocity ball showcased his ability to generate immense speed and his skill in troubling batsmen. His contributions to Pakistan’s cricket team, particularly during his early career, have been impressive. Sami’s ability to consistently bowl at high speeds and his accuracy make him a valuable asset for his team.

10. Shane Bond – 156.4 km/h

Shane Bond, the former New Zealand fast bowler, was known for his explosive pace and accuracy. He bowled the eighth-fastest delivery in cricket history, reaching a speed of 156.4 km/h (97.18 mph) during a match against India in 2003.

Bond’s lightning-fast delivery showcased his ability to generate immense speed and his skill in troubling batsmen. His contributions to the New Zealand cricket team, particularly during his career, were significant. Bond’s ability to consistently bowl at high speeds made him a formidable opponent for any batsman.

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Top 5 Fastest Deliveries in IPL History (2008-2025)

1. Shaun Tait (Rajasthan Royals) – 157.71 km/h (98 mph) in 2011

Shaun Tait’s name is synonymous with pace. Hailing from Australia, Tait was a key figure for Rajasthan Royals during his stint in the IPL. Known for his explosive speed and unconventional action, Tait bowled the fastest ball in IPL history in 2011. His delivery, clocked at a staggering 157.71 km/h (98 mph), remains unmatched in IPL history.

Tait’s raw pace was always his standout attribute. He didn’t rely much on swing or seam movement but instead focused on out-and-out speed, making him a nightmare for batsmen. His action, which had a sling-shot effect, made it difficult for batsmen to pick up the ball early, adding to the difficulty of facing him.

While Tait’s career was plagued by injuries, his brief appearances in the IPL left a lasting impression. His ability to consistently bowl over 150 km/h, combined with his aggressive approach, made him one of the most feared bowlers during his peak.

2. Lockie Ferguson (Kolkata Knight Riders) – 157.3 km/h (97.7 mph) in 2022

Lockie Ferguson, the New Zealand fast bowler, has become a significant force in T20 cricket over the past few years. Representing Kolkata Knight Riders in the IPL, Ferguson bowled a thunderbolt at 157.3 km/h (97.7 mph) in the 2022 season, placing him among the elite group of fastest bowlers in the tournament’s history.

Ferguson’s delivery was not just about pace but also precision. His ability to combine speed with accuracy makes him a versatile bowler in T20 cricket. Ferguson doesn’t just rely on brute force; he varies his length and occasionally uses slower balls, making him difficult to predict.

Ferguson’s rapid rise in the ranks of fast bowlers can be attributed to his rigorous fitness regimen and his ability to maintain his pace across long spells. His presence on the field brings an aura of aggression, and his fast, well-directed bouncers and yorkers have troubled even the most technically sound batsmen.

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3. Umran Malik (Sunrisers Hyderabad) – 157 km/h (97.6 mph) in 2022

Umran Malik, the young pace sensation from India, burst onto the scene during the IPL 2021 season with Sunrisers Hyderabad. What set Umran apart from many of his peers was his incredible speed, which consistently clocked over 150 km/h. In the 2022 IPL season, he bowled a delivery at 157 km/h (97.6 mph), making him one of the fastest Indian bowlers in IPL history.

Umran’s rise is a classic story of raw talent being discovered and honed on the big stage. His ability to generate extreme pace without compromising accuracy is a rare skill. He bowls a skiddy line that hurries batsmen, giving them little time to react.

In an era where India has produced many medium-fast bowlers who rely on swing, Umran brings a breath of fresh air with his sheer speed. His journey from playing tennis ball cricket in Jammu to delivering some of the fastest balls in the IPL shows the potential he holds. His presence in the Sunrisers’ squad has added an extra dimension to their bowling attack, and if nurtured well, Umran has the potential to become one of the great fast bowlers in international cricket.

4. Anrich Nortje (Delhi Capitals) – 156.22 km/h (97 mph) in 2020

Anrich Nortje, the South African speedster, has been a revelation in the IPL since his debut for Delhi Capitals. In the 2020 IPL season, Nortje bowled one of the fastest deliveries recorded in the tournament’s history, clocking at 156.22 km/h (97 mph).

Nortje’s pace is complemented by his sharp line and length. He often bowls full and straight, aiming for the stumps, making it difficult for batsmen to play aggressive shots. His lethal combination of pace and precision makes him a valuable asset in the T20 format, especially during the powerplay and death overs.

Nortje’s bowling action is smooth, allowing him to generate high speeds without putting excessive strain on his body. He forms a formidable pace duo with compatriot Kagiso Rabada at Delhi Capitals, and their partnership has played a key role in the team’s strong performances in recent IPL seasons.

5. Dale Steyn (Sunrisers Hyderabad) – 154.40 km/h (95.9 mph) in 2012

Dale Steyn, often regarded as one of the greatest fast bowlers of all time, was a dominant force in the IPL. Representing Sunrisers Hyderabad in 2012, Steyn bowled one of the fastest deliveries in IPL history at 154.40 km/h (95.9 mph).

Steyn’s speed was not his only weapon; his ability to swing the ball both ways at such a high pace made him one of the most difficult bowlers to face. He had an uncanny knack for breaking partnerships and picking up crucial wickets when his team needed them the most. His fiery demeanour on the field and his steely-eyed focus made him an intimidating bowler.

What set Steyn apart was his consistency. He wasn’t just fast; he was consistently fast and accurate. His control over line and length, coupled with his explosive pace, allowed him to dominate the IPL for many years. Steyn’s contributions to the tournament go beyond just his speed; he was also a mentor to many young fast bowlers and inspired a generation of pacers with his performances.

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Top 5 Fastest Bowlers in India

• In recent years, India has produced a new generation of fast bowlers who have made their mark on the international stage.
• Umran Malik, hailing from Hyderabad, has gained attention as India’s fastest bowler.
• During the Indian T20 League 2022, he consistently bowled above 150 km/h and claimed the title of India’s fastest bowler.
• Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Shami are also known for their pace and accuracy, making them key assets in the Indian cricket team.
• These bowlers have showcased their skills not only in international cricket but also in high-profile matches such as the Indian T20 League.

Insights into the Mechanics of Fast Bowling

The mechanics of fast bowling involve a combination of technique, strength, and agility. Fast bowlers generate their speed through a combination of a powerful run-up, a strong delivery stride, and a coordinated action that maximizes the transfer of energy from their bodies to the ball. This transfer of energy is crucial in achieving high speeds. Additionally, factors such as the grip on the ball, body positioning, and follow-through play a significant role in the effectiveness of fast bowling.

Understanding the Physics Behind Speed in Cricket

The ability to bowl at high speeds is a coveted skill in cricket. Fast bowlers aim to achieve raw pace by utilizing the principles of physics. The speed of the ball is influenced by factors such as the force applied by the bowler, the release angle, and the biomechanics involved in the bowling action. These factors contribute to the ball’s velocity and the subsequent challenges faced by batsmen in reacting to fast deliveries. Raw pace has become a defining characteristic of fast bowlers in international cricket, as it can give them a significant advantage over opposing batsmen.

The Role of Weather and Pitch Conditions

Weather and pitch conditions play a crucial role in the performance of fast bowlers. Atmospheric conditions such as temperature, humidity, and wind speed can affect the movement of the ball through the air. Additionally, pitch conditions, including its hardness, grass cover, and moisture content, can impact the pace and bounce of the ball. Fast bowlers often strategize and adapt their tactics based on these external factors to maximize their effectiveness in different conditions. Understanding the nuances of weather and pitch conditions is essential for fast bowlers to make informed decisions and exploit any advantages that may be present in the game.

Impact of Speed on Batting Techniques

The high speed of fast deliveries poses unique challenges for batsmen. To adapt to fast bowling, batsmen employ various techniques and strategies. They work on improving their footwork and reflexes to react quickly to the rapid pace of the ball. Additionally, they utilize protective gear such as helmets, chest guards, and arm guards to minimize the risk of injury. The ability to face fast deliveries effectively requires batsmen to develop a combination of technical skills, mental focus, and physical resilience.

How Batsmen Adapt to Face Fast Deliveries?

Batsmen employ various techniques to adapt to the challenge of facing fast deliveries. They focus on having quick footwork to get into the right position and react to the ball effectively. Batsmen also work on developing their hand-eye coordination to pick up the line and length of the ball quickly. Protective gear, such as helmets and chest guards, provide a layer of safety, allowing batsmen to face fast bowling with confidence. The ability to remain calm under pressure and make split-second decisions is crucial in facing fast deliveries, and batsmen train rigorously to hone these skills.

Protective Gear for Handling Extreme Pace

Protective gear plays a vital role in ensuring the safety of batsmen when facing extreme pace. Helmets are the most crucial piece of protective gear, offering protection to the head and face. Batsmen also wear chest guards and arm guards to shield themselves from potential injuries caused by fast deliveries. These protective measures allow batsmen to focus on their batting technique and react to the ball without fear of injury. The advancements in protective gear technology have significantly enhanced player safety and confidence, enabling batsmen to face fast bowling with greater assurance.

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Conclusion

Shoaib Akhtar, the “Rawalpindi Express,” holds the record for the fastest ball in cricket history/ fastest bowler in the world at 161.3 km/h during the 2003 World Cup. He leads a legendary list of speedsters like Brett Lee, Shaun Tait, and Mitchell Starc. Fast bowling is a thrilling blend of power, technique, and agility, constantly evolving as each generation strives to break speed barriers in cricket.

Frequently Asked Questions About Fastest Ball in Cricket History

Q1. What is the Official Record for the Fastest Ball in Cricket?

The official record for the fastest ball in cricket is held by Shoaib Akhtar, who bowled at a speed of 161.3 km/h (100.23 mph) during the 2003 ICC World Cup. This record has stood for over two decades, highlighting Akhtar’s incredible pace and skill.

Q2. How Do Bowlers Increase Their Bowling Speed?

Bowlers increase their bowling speed through a combination of training, technique, and fitness. They focus on building strength, improving their bowling action, and developing explosive power. Regular practice, specific drills, and maintaining peak physical fitness are crucial for increasing bowling speed.

Q3. Can Fast Bowling Lead to Long-Term Injuries?

Fast bowling can put a significant strain on the body and potentially lead to long-term injuries if not managed properly. Bowlers need to prioritize safety, proper technique, and regular rest and recovery to minimize the risk of injuries and maintain their physical well-being.

Q4. Who are the fastest bowlers in the world?

Based on official records, Shoaib Akhtar is the fastest bowler in the world, with the fastest bowling speed in cricket history. Other notable names in the list of world’s fastest bowlers in cricket include Brett Lee, Shaun Tait, and Mitchell Starc, all known for bowling at speeds over 150 km/h.

Q5. Who is the Indian fastest bowler?

Currently, Umran Malik holds the title of the Indian fastest bowler, having consistently bowled over 150 km/h in the Indian T20 League. He has recorded the fastest ball thrown in cricket by an Indian pacer, earning his spot among the top speed ball in cricket from India.