The Rawalpindi Express — the only bowler officially recorded at 100 mph.
Shoaib Akhtar was born in Rawalpindi, Pakistan in 1975. He is the only bowler ever officially recorded at over 100 mph — clocking 161.3 km/h (100.2 mph) at the 2003 World Cup. His pace — frightening, inconsistent and thrilling — made him the most discussed individual bowler of his era. He was banned twice for ball-tampering and for doping (nandrolone, 2006). His career was disrupted by injuries, controversies and his own personality. At his best he was genuinely unplayable. He was involved in public disputes with the PCB, teammates and coaches throughout his career.
Best Known For
World Cup runner-up 2003
Honours & Achievements
Career Honours
- World Cup runner-up 2003
- Fastest bowling spell (100 mph)
Career Journey
Timeline
1975
👶 Born in Rawalpindi, Pakistan
2011
🏁 Retired from professional sport
🏟️ Lahore Whites
🏟️ Rawalpindi
🏆 World Cup runner-up 2003
🏆 Fastest bowling spell (100 mph)