The Indian Premier League (IPL) is not just a cricket league; it’s a phenomenon. Over the years, it has become a platform for young talents to showcase their prowess and make a mark on the international stage. One of the most thrilling aspects of the game is the sheer pace with which some bowlers deliver the ball. Here, we will go through the top 10 fastest deliveries in IPL history, analyzing the bowlers behind these lightning-fast speeds.
Top 10 Fastest Deliveries in IPL History
| Rank | Bowler | Speed (kmph) | Year | Team | Team Against |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Shaun Tait | 157.71 | 2011 | Rajasthan Royals | Delhi Capitals |
| 2 | Lockie Ferguson | 157.3 | 2022 | Kolkata Knight Riders | Rajasthan Royals |
| 3 | Umran Malik | 157 | 2022 | Sunrisers Hyderabad | Delhi Capitals |
| 4 | Anrich Nortje | 156.22 | 2020 | Delhi Capitals | Rajasthan Royals |
| 5 | Umran Malik | 156 | 2022 | Sunrisers Hyderabad | Delhi Capitals |
| 6 | Anrich Nortje | 155.1 | 2020 | Delhi Capitals | Rajasthan Royals |
| 7 | Umran Malik | 154.8 | 2022 | Sunrisers Hyderabad | Delhi Capitals |
| 8 | Anrich Nortje | 154.7 | 2020 | Delhi Capitals | Rajasthan Royals |
| 9 | Dale Steyn | 154.4 | 2012 | Deccan Chargers | No info available |
| 10 | Kagiso Rabada | 154.2 | 2019 | Punjab Kings | Kolkata Knight Rider |
Top 10 Fastest Deliveries in IPL: Important Details
Shaun Tait
Holding the record for the fastest ball in IPL, Shaun Tait delivered a ball at a staggering speed of 157.71 kph in 2011. Playing for the Rajasthan Royals, Tait, known for his incredible pace, made a significant impact in the 21 games he played, taking 23 wickets. However, injuries cut short what could have been an even more illustrious career.
Lockie Ferguson
Close on Tait’s heels is Lockie Ferguson, who bowled at 157.3 kmph during the IPL 2022 championship game against the Rajasthan Royals. Known for his rapid deliveries, Ferguson showcased his talent multiple times during the IPL 2022 season. He continues to be a crucial player for the Kolkata Knight Riders.
Umran Malik
Emerging as one of India’s fastest bowlers, Umran Malik made headlines with his delivery, second only to Ferguson’s, clocking at 157 kph in IPL 2022. Post the IPL, Malik continued to impress, delivering commendable performances against Bangladesh and Ireland. With a bit more focus on his line and length, Malik is poised for a bright future with the Indian cricket team.
Anrich Nortje
The South African pacer consistently bowled over 150 kmph during IPL 2020. One of his deliveries, clocked at 156.22 kmph against the Rajasthan Royals, stands as the fourth-fastest in IPL history. Nortje’s pace played a pivotal role in taking the Delhi Capitals to the IPL 2020 championship final.
Umran Malik (again)
Malik features again on this list, with another delivery in IPL 2022 against the Delhi Capitals, clocking at 156 kmph. His raw pace was a challenge for many batsmen during the games.
Anrich Nortje (again)
Nortje’s delivery for the Delhi Capitals against the Rajasthan Royals in IPL 2020, clocked at 155.1 kmph, making it the sixth-fastest ball in IPL history. His consistent performances made him one of the most feared bowlers of the season.
Umran Malik (yet again)
Malik’s consistency in bowling fast is evident as he features for the third time. In IPL 2022, playing for Sunrisers Hyderabad against Delhi Capitals, he delivered a ball at 154.8 kmph.
Anrich Nortje (third entry)
Nortje makes his third appearance with a delivery clocked at 154.7 kmph against the Rajasthan Royals in IPL 2020. This season was undoubtedly his best.
Dale Steyn
The South African legend, despite injuries in the latter part of his career, showcased his prime form in IPL 2012. Playing for the Deccan Chargers, Steyn delivered a ball at 154.40 kph, making it one of the fastest in IPL history. With 18 wickets in the season, Steyn proved why he’s considered one of the best bowlers of all time.
Kagiso Rabada
Another South African speedster, Rabada, has been a consistent performer in the IPL. In IPL 2019, he bowled a delivery at 154.23 kmph against Kolkata Knight Riders, making it one of the fastest in the league’s history. With 25 wickets in just 12 games during the season, Rabada showcased his prowess as a top-tier fast bowler.
Final Words
The Indian Premier League (IPL) has been a stage where speedsters have consistently showcased their prowess. The raw pace, often exceeding 150 kmph, poses a formidable challenge for batsmen, requiring them to react within a fraction of a second. Bowlers like Umran Malik, with his dominant presence on the list, signify the future of fast bowling in the IPL. International bowlers like Anrich Nortje, Jofra Archer, and Lockie Ferguson have also made their mark, and it wouldn’t be surprising to see them, or even Malik, surpass the current record set by Shaun Tait. As the IPL continues to evolve, the quest for speed remains a thrilling aspect of the game, with bowlers pushing their limits to etch their names in the record books.
