The yorker is widely regarded as one of cricket’s most potent deliveries, typically directed at the batsman’s toes to limit their scoring options. It is particularly effective during the latter stages of matches, especially when opposing batsmen are aggressively seeking boundaries.
Lasith Malinga gained immense renown for his mastery of the yorker. Known for his precision, Malinga often swung matches in favor of Sri Lanka by dismissing key batsmen with this delivery. His unforgettable achievement of claiming four wickets in four consecutive balls against South Africa during the 2007 World Cup solidified his status as one of cricket’s premier talents, leaving an enduring mark on the sport.
99 World Cup, Shoaib Akhtar – Dale Steyn
When Iceland Cricket asked on X (formerly Twitter) about the best yorker in history, Dale Steyn replied with former Pakistan fast bowler Shoaib Akhtar. Iceland Cricket agreed and mentioned Akhtar’s delivery to Stephen Fleming during that tournament.
“Which bowler has had the best yorker in history?” Iceland Cricket asked on X (formerly known as Twitter).
“99 World Cup, Shoaib Akhtar,” Dale Steyn replied.
“Oh yes, especially that ball to Stephen Fleming!” Iceland Cricket wrote in response.
Shoaib Akhtar Bowled Fastest Delivery In International Cricket
Shoaib Akhtar had a remarkable international cricket career representing the Pakistan National Team for 14 years. Known as the ‘Rawalpindi Express’, he featured in 46 Test matches, 163 ODIs, and 15 T20 Internationals. Akhtar’s bowling prowess saw him capture 178 Test wickets, 247 ODI wickets, and 19 T20I wickets throughout his tenure.
He gained significant recognition for being the first bowler to achieve the milestone of bowling at 100 miles per hour, achieving this feat on two occasions. Notably, during the 2003 World Cup, he bowled at 161.3 kmph against England’s Nick Knight, highlighting his exceptional speed and skill.
Aside from his cricketing achievements, Shoaib Akhtar also attracted attention for his controversies, both on and off the field. His autobiography, titled ‘Controversially Yours’, delves into his eventful journey in cricket and beyond.
Dale Steyn made his Test debut for South Africa against England in December 2004 in Gqeberha, where he had a challenging start, taking two wickets for 117 runs in the first innings and one wicket for 29 runs in the second innings. Despite his efforts, England emerged victorious by seven wickets in that match.
Throughout his illustrious career, Steyn played 93 Test matches for South Africa, establishing himself as a formidable right-arm fast bowler. He accumulated 439 wickets at an impressive average of 22.95, which included 26 instances of claiming five wickets in an innings and five ten-wicket match hauls.
In his final Test appearance against Sri Lanka in Gqeberha in February 2019, Steyn went without a wicket as South Africa suffered an eight-wicket defeat. His retirement marked the end of an era for South African cricket, leaving behind a legacy of skill, resilience, and unmatched contribution to the game.
