In a gripping and historic moment that unfolded during the 12th match of the Women’s Premier League (WPL) 2024, the Mumbai Indians’ (MI) fast bowler, Shabnim Ismail, etched her name into the illustrious annals of cricketing history.
With adrenaline pulsing through her veins, the 35-year-old speedster accomplished an extraordinary feat by unleashing a delivery that soared with unprecedented velocity, setting a new benchmark for pace in women’s cricket.
This remarkable achievement not only highlights Ismail’s exceptional skill and talent but also serves as a testament to the relentless pursuit of excellence within the sport. Her record-breaking performance reverberates as a milestone moment, inspiring generations of aspiring cricketers and cementing her legacy as a trailblazer in the realm of fast bowling.
Breaking Barriers
Facing off against Delhi Capitals (DC), Shabnim Ismail unleashed her lightning pace, clocking an astonishing speed of 132.1 kilometers per hour. This remarkable feat not only secured her a place in the record books but also surpassed the previous benchmark of 130 kilometers per hour set by Australia’s Elise Perry.
Momentous Delivery
The historic moment occurred in the second ball of the third over, with Shabnim Ismail charging in to bowl against Delhi’s captain, Meg Lanning. With sheer determination and skill, Ismail delivered a thunderbolt that left spectators in awe and opponents astounded.
Remarkable Journey
Hailing from South Africa, Shabnim Ismail has had a illustrious career in international cricket before retiring. Prior to this feat, her fastest delivery stood at 128.3 kilometers per hour. When asked about her monumental achievement, Ismail humbly remarked, “I don’t look at the screen while bowling,” emphasizing her focus and dedication on the field.
Unfolding Match
While Ismail’s record-breaking moment stole the spotlight, the match itself was a captivating contest between MI and DC. Opting to bowl first, MI found themselves facing a formidable target set by DC, with former Australian captain Meg Lanning showcasing her prowess with a spirited innings of 53 runs. However, MI’s response fell short as they could only manage 163 runs in their allotted 20 overs, handing DC a convincing victory by 29 runs.
Summary
Shabnim Ismail’s remarkable achievement serves as a testament to the evolving landscape of women’s cricket, where boundaries are shattered and records are rewritten with each passing game. As her name reverberates across the cricketing world, Ismail’s legacy as a trailblazer and pioneer in the sport is cemented, inspiring generations of aspiring cricketers to aim for greatness.
