Fast bowling is one of the most challenging aspects of cricket, demanding immense physical strength, endurance, and skill. Fast bowlers often push their limits to deliver thunderous speeds, making them some of the most thrilling players to watch. However, their aggressive pace also puts them at high risk of injuries. Over the years, several speedsters have left their mark on the game with their blistering deliveries.
Here’s a look at the top 10 fastest bowlers in modern-day cricket, based on their recorded speeds:
1. Mitchell Starc – 160.4 km/h
Country: Australia
Mitchell Starc is one of the most feared fast bowlers in contemporary cricket. Known for his lethal yorkers and swing, the left-arm pacer has been a key player for Australia in all formats. His fastest delivery of 160.4 km/h came against New Zealand in 2015. A two-time ODI World Cup winner, Starc remains a match-winner with his ability to dismantle batting line-ups.
2. Haris Rauf – 159 km/h
Country: Pakistan
Haris Rauf is Pakistan’s premier fast bowler, known for his raw pace and aggressive bowling. He delivered his fastest ball (159 km/h) during the T20 World Cup 2022 final against England. Despite Pakistan’s loss, Rauf’s fiery spell was a standout performance.
3. Lockie Ferguson – 157.9 km/h
Country: New Zealand
Lockie Ferguson is one of the most consistent express pacers in white-ball cricket. His ability to consistently bowl over 150 km/h makes him a nightmare for batters. As a member of the Gujarat Titans, he recorded his fastest delivery (157.9 km/h) during the IPL 2022 final.
4. Umran Malik – 157 km/h
Country: India
Nicknamed the “Jammu Express,” Umran Malik burst onto the scene with his extreme pace during IPL 2022. His fastest delivery (157 km/h) made him one of the quickest Indian bowlers ever. Though he has struggled to maintain consistency, his raw speed remains unmatched.
5. Mayank Yadav – 156.7 km/h
Country: India
During the 2024 Indian Premier League, Mayank Yadav caused a stir with his lightning-fast pace and scorching deliveries. His fastest ball (156.7 km/h) came against Royal Challengers Bangalore, announcing his arrival as India’s newest speed sensation.
6. Kagiso Rabada – 154.23 km/h
Country: South Africa
One of the most comprehensive fast bowlers of this generation is Kagiso Rabada. He has been South Africa’s top bowling option, with 327 Test wickets at an average of 22. His fastest delivery (154.23 km/h) was recorded during IPL 2019.
7. Anrich Nortje – 156.2 km/h
Country: South Africa
Anrich Nortje is among the quickest bowlers in the world, consistently hitting 150+ km/h. His fastest ball (156.2 km/h) came in IPL 2020, where he famously clean-bowled Jos Buttler with a searing yorker.
8. Jasprit Bumrah – 153.26 km/h
Country: India
In every format, India’s pace leader is Jasprit Bumrah. Known for his unorthodox action and pinpoint accuracy, he bowled his fastest delivery (153.26 km/h) against Australia in 2018. His legacy was further solidified by his achievements in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy and the 2024 T20 World Cup.
9. Mohammed Shami – 153.2 km/h
Country: India
In Test matches and One-Day Internationals, Mohammed Shami has been India’s preferred bowler, particularly during World Cups. His fastest ball (153.2 km/h) was recorded during India’s 2014 tour of Australia. Shami’s seam movement and pace make him a lethal weapon.
10. Matheesha Pathirana – 150.9 km/h
Country: Sri Lanka
Pathirana, who has made an impression in the IPL with the Chennai Super Kings, is known as “Baby Malinga” for his slingy motion. In the IPL 2023, he made his fastest delivery (150.9 km/h), demonstrating his promise as a future Sri Lankan star.
Conclusion
Fast bowlers bring excitement and intensity to cricket with their sheer pace. While some, like Mitchell Starc and Kagiso Rabada, have established themselves as legends, young talents like Mayank Yadav and Matheesha Pathirana are carrying the torch forward. As cricket evolves, the quest for speed continues, with bowlers pushing the limits to breach the 160 km/h mark.
