Mumbai Indians’ pacer Shabnim Ismail made history by delivering the fastest recorded ball in women’s cricket during the Women’s Premier League (WPL) 2024 match against Delhi Capitals.
The former South African speedster achieved a speed of 132.1 kmph in the third over, surpassing the 130 kmph barrier for the first time since bowling speeds have been measured.
The fastest delivery struck Meg Lanning’s pad, prompting Mumbai Indians players to appeal for an LBW decision. The on-field umpire ruled it not out, and despite a brief mid-pitch discussion, Mumbai opted not to review the decision.
Ismail acknowledged her achievement during the mid-innings interview, mentioning that she hadn’t noticed it while bowling.
“I don’t actually look at things like that. Honestly, the wicket was a bit quicker than what I thought, it was in between at the start, wasn’t too sure but Delhi played well on that track. We never actually thought about the score we’re going to restrict them, we just wanted to bowl well but they capitalized on things,” Ismail said.
Ismail had a strong beginning to her season for the defending champions, securing three wickets in the initial two matches before a minor injury sidelined her. She missed the playing XI for the rest of the Bengaluru leg but returned to action in the 29-run defeat against DC, marking the start of the second half of the WPL 2024 season.
Ismail experienced a challenging encounter against Meg Lanning’s team, concluding with figures of 1-46 in her four overs. Shafali Verma launched an aggressive attack at the beginning of Ismail’s spell, reigniting their ongoing rivalry.
Ismail had the last word for the second time this season, dismissing Verma. She delivered a spirited send-off, influenced by Verma being dropped by Saika Ishaque earlier. MI, however, dropped to the third spot in the points table after their second loss in the WPL 2024 season.
Shabnim Ismail also owns the record for the fastest delivery in women’s international cricket
Shabnim Ismail was on the verge of surpassing the 130 kmph mark during her international career. She holds the record for the fastest delivery in women’s international cricket, recording a speed of 128 kmph against West Indies in 2016.
Shabnim Ismail, aged 35, reached a speed of 127 kmph twice during her final international assignment at the 2022 T20 World Cup in South Africa.
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