Umran Malik sets his eye on the record of the fastest delivery in international cricket

The most exciting prospect for India in the latest edition of the Indian T20 League has been the tear-away pace bowler from Jammu and Kashmir, Umran Malik. He excited all the fans and experts with his ability to clock 150 kmph plus on a regular basis. Malik bowled a delivery clocking 157 kmph that was recorded as the second-fastest delivery of the tournament. The young pacer has now set his eye on the fastest delivery of international cricket. Notably, the record for the fastest delivery in international cricket currently belongs to the former Pakistani speedster, Shoaib Akhtar.

In an interview with News24, Malik stated – “I will target Shoaib Akhtar’s Fastest Delivery Record in the future. If God is willing to make it happen, I will give my best and hopefully will break the record. Also, to bowl 150 kmph I need to maintain my fitness levels and hope God gives his blessings to me.”

Notably, Malik has received his maiden call-up to the national team after his impressive show in the Indian T20 League 2022. He picked up 22 wickets in the tournament but his economy rate was a touch on the higher side. While speaking about breaking Akhtar’s record, Malik also led stress on the fact that he needs to maintain his fitness. As bowling at 150 kmph plus speed is really stressful for the body.

“My focus is not on that record right now. I want to bowl well, bowl fast, and help my country win all five matches against South Africa. If God willing, I will get that record. But right now, the focus is on maintaining the body and the strength,”- added Malik.

Speaking of the fastest delivery in international cricket, here is a list of the top three fastest deliveries.

1. Shoaib Akhtar clocked 161 kmph in 2002 against New Zealand. This is still the fastest delivery in international cricket.

2. Shaun Tait bowled a 160.7 kmph ball at Lord’s. This remains the second fastest delivery in international cricket history.

3. The third name on the list of the former Australian speedster, Brett Lee. He clocked 157.4 kmph against South Africa in 2002.