When I was tasked with naming my all-time greatest fast bowlers, I quickly listed my choices in under two minutes.
Afterward, I reflected on who I might have overlooked!
Some legendary names were missing.
Players like Courtney Walsh, Stuart Broad, Richard Hadlee, and Bob Willis could all have been included on my list.
However, my selections are subjective and based on my own experiences—those whom I faced and those I observed.
Here’s my list…
15 – SYLVESTER CLARKE (West Indies, 1978-82)
This might be an unconventional pick as he only played 11 Tests, but make no mistake, his speed was impressive.
He was a key figure for Surrey and one of the fastest I ever encountered in county cricket.
14 – SHOAIB AKHTAR (Pakistan, 1997-2007)
Shoaib was known for his blistering pace and charismatic image.
When he was in shape, he was nearly impossible to face, earning a reputation as the first bowler to exceed 100mph.
13 – ALLAN DONALD (South Africa, 1992-2002)
Quick and mentally tough, he was capable of bowling at any end under any circumstance.
Donald was a quietly charming personality off the pitch, but his fierce competitiveness shone through while playing.
12 – MICHAEL HOLDING (West Indies, 1975-87)
Known as Whispering Death, he was an elegant bowler with exceptional speed.
Holding was an ardent supporter of Test cricket, believing other formats paled in comparison.
11 – CURTLY AMBROSE (West Indies, 1988-2000)
Curtly was unmatched in accuracy and adept at varying his pace.
He and Courtney Walsh formed a formidable fast bowling duo, consistently challenging batsmen.
10 – DALE STEYN (South Africa, 2004-19)
Sporting a presence reminiscent of Donald Pleasence, he must have been a nightmare to face.
Steyn was not only rapid but also capable of swinging the ball at impressive speeds.
9 – WAQAR YOUNIS (Pakistan, 1989-2003)
He was known for exceptional speed and lethal late inswing.
His partnership with Wasim Akram made him even more challenging for opposing batsmen.
