Pakistani · Vehari, Punjab, Pakistan · Born 16 November 1971Waqar Younis was a Pakistani fast bowler celebrated as a pioneer of reverse swing, forming a devastating new-ball partnership with Wasim Akram.
Waqar Younis Maitla was born on 16 November 1971 in Vehari, a remote district of Punjab, Pakistan, and was spotted by the legendary Imran Khan after his run-up, action, and follow-through impressed him while watching a televised bank league match. Waqar made his ODI debut against the West Indies in 1989 and his Test debut against India a month later, developing into one of the finest fast bowlers the sport has produced, particularly renowned as the master of reverse swing and the toe-crushing inswinging yorker. Waqar formed one of cricket's most feared bowling partnerships alongside compatriot Wasim Akram, and became the youngest Pakistani Test captain in history at 22 years and 15 days. He took his first 50 Test wickets in just ten matches, finishing his career with 373 Test wickets and 416 ODI wickets, holding the best strike rate of any bowler with 200-plus Test wickets until Dale Steyn later surpassed him. Waqar, nicknamed "Toe Crusher" and "the Burewala Express," led Pakistan to the 1999 Cricket World Cup final, and went on to coach both Pakistan and franchise teams including the Sunrisers Hyderabad and Kolkata Knight Riders, remaining widely regarded as one of the greatest fast bowlers in cricket history.
Pioneer of reverse swing bowling and one of the fastest bowlers to reach 400 Test wickets
How They Played
Waqar Younis was renowned for his devastating yorkers, particularly his toe-crushing deliveries at the death. He mastered the art of reverse swing with the old ball, often swinging it late and at high pace to trouble even the best batsmen. His aggressive approach and ability to take wickets in clusters made him one of the most feared fast bowlers of his era.
Lasting Impact
Waqar revolutionized fast bowling with his yorker technique and reverse swing mastery, influencing a generation of pace bowlers worldwide. His partnership with Wasim Akram is considered one of the greatest bowling combinations in cricket history.
Career Honours
- Wisden Cricketer of the Year 1992
- fastest bowler to 300 ODI wickets (at the time)
- ICC Cricket Hall of Fame
| Club | Period | Matches | Wickets |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lahore Blues | 1984–2003 | 78 | 421 |
| Surrey | 1990–2003 | 54 | 168 |
Pakistani Athletes