South African speedster Shabnim Ismail has etched her name in the annals of women’s cricket history by becoming the first bowler to breach the 130kph barrier. During the Women’s Premier League (WPL) match between Mumbai Indians and Delhi Capitals, Ismail unleashed a thunderbolt that clocked in at an astonishing 132.1kph.
This remarkable feat marks a significant milestone in the evolution of women’s cricket, as it is the first time such a high speed has been recorded since the introduction of speed guns. Ismail’s delivery was not only a testament to her exceptional pace but also a testament to the growing competitiveness and skill level in the women’s game.
Ismail’s blistering delivery came in the third over of the match, targeting Delhi Capitals captain Meg Lanning. The ball was full and straight, narrowly missing Lanning’s bat and striking her front pad. Mumbai appealed for leg before wicket (lbw), but the umpire turned down the appeal.
Despite her impressive speed, Ismail struggled to find her rhythm in the match. Her first two overs yielded 14 runs, and she was punished by Shafali Verma, who smashed consecutive sixes off her bowling. However, Ismail managed to regain her composure and eventually dismissed Verma for 28, giving her an aggressive send-off.
Ismail’s record-breaking delivery is not an isolated incident. She has consistently showcased her exceptional pace throughout her career. In international cricket, she holds the record for the fastest delivery, having bowled at 128kph against West Indies in 2016. She also breached the 127kph mark twice in the 2022 ODI World Cup.
Ismail’s achievements are a testament to her dedication, hard work, and unwavering determination. She has become an inspiration for young cricketers around the world, proving that anything is possible with passion and perseverance.
