Remembering: Shoaib Akhtar Broke 100mph Barrier In 2002 ODI
On this day in 2002, Shoaib Akhtar remarkably clocked 100.04mph in a historic ODI record.
oyce Joyson is a sports, beauty, and lifestyle writer with over a year of experience creating engaging content. She holds a triple majors bachelor’s degree in History, Political Science, and Geography from IIS University and a Master’s in Mass Communication and Journalism from Kristu Jayanti College.
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In 2002, a moment etched into cricket history unfolded at Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore. Shoaib Akhtar, affectionately known as the Rawalpindi Express, recorded a delivery at 100.04 mph (161 kph) during an ODI against New Zealand. This historic feat not only challenged the limits of pace bowling but also cemented Akhtar’s reputation as one of the fastest and most intimidating bowlers the game has ever seen.
In an era when pace and power were becoming the hallmarks of modern cricket, Akhtar’s delivery was a bold statement. It pushed the boundaries of what was thought possible in the sport and set a benchmark for future fast bowlers.
The moment occurred during an ODI against New Zealand, where every ball was watched by millions. As cameras captured his every move, Akhtar’s run-up, delivery stride, and the sheer speed of his arm combined to create an unforgettable spectacle. The measurement of his bowling speed ignited conversations in locker rooms, sports bars, and among cricket pundits around the globe.
Legacy Of Speed
Shoaib Akhtar’s record-breaking delivery remains a frequently revisited topic in cricketing discussions even two decades later. For many, his expression—a mix of fierce determination and an unmistakable passion for the game – encapsulates the spirit of competitive cricket. His career, filled with highs and lows, has been marked by moments that both thrilled fans and spurred debates among experts.
Aside from his speed, Shoaib’s aggressive style and no-nonsense attitude on the field earned him both admirers and critics. His willingness to push limits resonated especially with fans of Pakistani cricket. Supporters proudly recall how his blistering pace was something to behold and how it instilled fear in batters across the world. Even now, contests and commemorative articles often refer back to that iconic day when a bowler redefined what it meant to be fast.
Looking back, it is clear that milestones like these do more than set records—they ignite passion, fuel debate, and remind us why we love the game. Shoaib Akhtar’s blazing speed on that memorable day at Gaddafi Stadium is an enduring symbol of excellence and a legacy that will forever resonate in the annals of cricket.
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