NEW DELHI: Mumbai Indians’ Shabnim Ismail bowled the fastest delivery in women’s cricket with a 132.1 kmph ball hitting Delhi Capitals captain Meg Lanning’s pads in a Women’s Premier League (WPL) match on Tuesday.
South African Ismail struck on the second ball of the third over of the match and while the lbw appeal was dismissed, the 35-year-old still entered the record books as the first woman to break the 130km/h mark, according to the International Cricket Council.
Ismail also holds the record for the fastest delivery in women’s international cricket, hitting 128 kmph against West Indies in 2016.
Despite setting a new mark to end international cricket last year, Ismail was unhappy with her bowling total against Delhi after conceding 46 runs in four overs as Mumbai lost by 29 runs at the Arun Jaitley Stadium.
Ismail, who retired from international cricket last year, said she was initially unaware that she had bowled such a quick delivery and told broadcasters after Delhi’s innings that she was unhappy with the quality of her bowling.
“I wasn’t sure, I don’t look at the big screen when I’m bowling,” Ismail said.
“Personally, I am very disappointed with my bowling. But Delhi Capitals played really well today.”
Mumbai’s bowling coach, former India quick Jhulan Goswami, told reporters that he also didn’t realize she had set a new mark with the ball.
“I didn’t know it was 130 and up either,” he said, adding that he wasn’t too keen on Ismail’s otherwise expensive charm.
“(It’s fine) as long as she’s bowling well and hitting the right spots. She’s enjoying it at the moment, we’ll let her continue to do it.”
