Women’s cricket has witnessed a remarkable escalation in talent and skill over the years with players pushing boundaries and redefining the sport’s parameters. One such aspect that gathers attention and admiration is the speed at which the ball is delivered.
This listicle highlights some of the most exceptional instances where bowlers have left their mark with sheer pace and precision. From record-breaking deliveries, these moments not only showcase the individual brilliance of players but also reflect the evolution and growing competitiveness of women’s cricket on the global stage.
Here are the top 5 fastest recorded deliveries in women’s cricket
1. Shabnim Ismail – 132.1 kph
South African pacer Shabnim Ismail set the record for the fastest delivery in women’s cricket during the 2024 Women’s Premier League. In a match between Mumbai Indians and Delhi Capitals, Ismail, at 35 years old, bowled a swift 132.1 kph delivery to Delhi’s Meg Lanning. However, it didn’t alter the outcome with Mumbai players appealing for an LBW as it was turned down and eventually the Capitals won the game by 29 runs.
2. Ellyse Perry – 130.5 kph
Australian all-rounder Ellyse Perry made history as the first women’s cricketer to break the 130-kph mark during the 2023 WPL. Playing for Royal Challengers Bangalore, Perry’s record-setting delivery turned the team’s fortunes, leading them to their first win of the season after a continuous defeat of five matches. Perry was exceptional with figures of 3 wickets against 16 runs in her spell of four overs to restrict UP to 135, which Bangalore chased down in 18 overs with five wickets in hand. Despite Bangalore’s overall struggle that season, Perry’s exceptional performance solidified her status as one of the sport’s greatest.
3. Shabnim Ismail – 128.3 kph
Ismail displayed her speed in the inaugural WPL 2024 match, she recorded a fearsome 128.3 kph delivery in a match against the Delhi Capitals at M. Chinnaswamy Stadium. Despite missing subsequent games due to injury, Ismail’s performance in the season thus far has been effective, with five wickets in three innings at an excellent average of 17.60 and an economy of 7.33.
4. Shabnim Ismail – 128 kph
In 2016, Shabnim Ismail established herself as the fastest bowler of her generation with a delivery reaching at 128 kph during a series against the West Indies. Ismail’s impressive performance, including seven wickets at an average under 9, played a crucial role, by claiming back-to-back three-wicket hauls in the initial two T20Is of the series resulting in South Africa’s 2-1 series win.
5. Shabnim Ismail – 128 kph
In her penultimate career match for South Africa, Ismail showcased her speed once again during the 2023 T20 World Cup semi-final against England. Her match-winning spell included three crucial wickets, resulting in South Africa’s victory. Despite the loss in the final against Australia, Ismail concluded her prominent career as South Africa’s all-time leading wicket-taker in both T20Is and ODIs.
These deliveries not only highlight the individual brilliance of players like Shabnim Ismail and Ellyse Perry but also highlight the growing pace and skill in women’s cricket.
