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Fastest Ball In Cricket: When Shoaib Akhtar Scripted History With A 161.3 KPH Corker

Debashis Sarangi

Shoaib Akhtar bowled the fastest ball in cricket history [Source: @shoaib100mph/X]Shoaib Akhtar bowled the fastest ball in cricket history [Source: @shoaib100mph/X]

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In a dramatic turn of events, India's experienced pacer Mohammed Siraj stunned everyone on Saturday, as one of his deliveries clocked 181.6 KPH during the ongoing Test match against Australia. However, as things panned out, it turned out to be a technical error, with Siraj making headlines due to the bizarre incident. 

Nevertheless, as Siraj's name started to trend following the event, fans became curious about the fastest deliveries in the history of cricket. For the unversed, Pakistan's legendary fast bowler Shoaib Akhtar currently holds the record for the fastest ball in cricket, having clocked a 161.3 kph thunderbolt. 

When Did Shoaib Akhtar Bowled Fastest Ball In Cricket?

The iconic fast bowler achieved the milestone during Pakistan's 2003 World Cup encounter against England in Cape Town. The batter on strike was England's former opening batter Nick Knight, who defended Akhtar's record-breaking delivery. 

From over the wicket, Akhtar bowled a good-length delivery around the off-stump, as Knight tucked it firmly off his back foot. The ball was fielded by the square-leg fielder and didn't result in any run. 

Hailed for his ability to operate at a searing pace, Shoaib Akhtar has breached the 150kph bar so many times during his playing days. His run-up and action used to terrorise the batters, and his 'nose or toes' strategy worked wonders for Pakistan. 

The fact that he continues to top the chart even after 21 years of delivering the fastest ball signifies his legacy, placing himself among one of the most fearsome fast bowlers of all time.