Australian fast bowler Mitchell Starc made headlines this week after reports claimed he bowled the fastest delivery in cricket history — allegedly clocking 176.5 km/h during a recent ODI. However, officials have now confirmed that the reading was a technical error, meaning Shoaib Akhtar’s legendary record remains unbroken.
The confusion began when a speed gun displayed an unusually high number during Starc’s over, shocking commentators and fans alike. Many on social media quickly claimed that the Australian had surpassed Shoaib Akhtar’s famous 161.3 km/h delivery, bowled against England in the 2003 Cricket World Cup. But soon after, cricket authorities clarified that the number was inaccurate and caused by a malfunction in the radar system.
Mitchell Starc, known for his consistent pace and deadly swing, regularly bowls in the range of 145–155 km/h, but experts agree that crossing 170 km/h is practically impossible under current conditions. Despite the false claim, fans praised Starc’s performance, noting that he remains one of the most dangerous left-arm fast bowlers in the world.
Shoaib Akhtar’s record still stands as the fastest officially recorded delivery in cricket history, a mark that has remained untouched for more than two decades. The Pakistani speedster, famously known as the “Rawalpindi Express,” has long been celebrated for his unmatched pace and aggressive bowling style.
While technology has improved over the years, accurate speed tracking still depends on radar calibration and weather conditions. The latest mix-up serves as a reminder that not all readings are reliable — and that Shoaib Akhtar’s 161.3 km/h missile remains the gold standard of fast bowling.
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