Anrich Nortje Targets To Break Shoaib Akhtar's Record Of Fastest Delivery

South Africa fast bowler Anrich Nortje has been a sensation for Delhi Capitals in IPL 2020. His exceptional pace has made it difficult for the batsmen to pick him as he continues to damage the opposition with his brilliance. Nortje, after bowling the fastest IPL delivery, has also set his sight on Shoaib Akhtar’s record.

Nortje raked up a speed of 156.22 kmph against Rajasthan Royals on Wednesday. He also bowled the second and third fastest deliveries in IPL history — at 155.21 and 154.74 respectively. But he is not done with it and wants to hit above the 160kmph on the speed gun.

It’s definitely something I’ve wanted to do: Anrich Nortje

Nortje said that breaking Shoaib Akhtar’s record for the fastest delivery is something he always had in his mind. He also added that maybe on a good wicket, where the comination is right, he can do it in the IPL or in future.

“Hopefully it’s something I’ve got in me and it’s definitely something I’ve wanted to do,” Nortje told his IPL team-mate R Ashwin on the latter’s YouTube channel.

“Maybe a good wicket, some adrenaline, the right combination and I can do it this IPL or maybe in the future,” he added.

The fastest delivery record (161.3km/h) is currently held by former Pakistan pacer Shoaib Akhtar during the 2003 World Cup match against England. It has been over 15 years that the record still remains intact. Although, international cricket has over the years seen some talents who looked in contention of surpassing the feat.