Pace bowling has always been a game-changer in ODI cricket. Fast bowlers use sheer speed to trouble batters, creating moments of brilliance on the field. The ICC Champions Trophy has witnessed some of the quickest wicket-taking deliveries, leaving fans in awe.
- Mark Wood bowled one of the fastest wicket-taking deliveries in the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy.
- Brett Lee dominates the list with three entries from 2009.
- Kagiso Rabada also secured a spot in the 2025 edition.
Fastest Wicket-Taking Deliveries in Champions Trophy
The past four editions of the ICC Champions Trophy have seen some of the quickest deliveries leading to wickets. From 2009 to 2025, bowlers have consistently clocked speeds above 90 mph, proving the dominance of raw pace in international cricket.
Top Five Fastest Wicket-Taking Deliveries
| Speed | Fast bowler | Batter | Champions Trophy edition |
|---|---|---|---|
| 94.1 mph | Brett Lee | Grant Elliott | 2009 |
| 93.4 mph | Mark Wood | Steve Smith | 2025 |
| 92.5 mph | Kagiso Rabada | Ibrahim Zadran | 2025 |
| 92.3 mph | Brett Lee | Owais Shah | 2009 |
| 91.8 mph | Brett Lee | Travis Dowlins | 2009 |
Brett Lee’s Dominance in Fast Bowling
The Australian legend Brett Lee leads the chart, securing three out of five spots. His incredible pace in 2009 helped Australia dominate opposition batters. His fastest delivery in the Champions Trophy clocked 94.1 mph, sending Grant Elliott’s stumps flying.
Mark Wood’s Entry into the Elite Club
English speedster Mark Wood etched his name in history by dismissing Steve Smith with a 93.4 mph delivery. This happened in Lahore during the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy, making him the second-fastest wicket-taker in the tournament’s history.
Kagiso Rabada’s Impact in 2025
South African pacer Kagiso Rabada delivered a fiery ball at 92.5 mph, claiming the wicket of Ibrahim Zadran. His pace and aggression continue to make him a vital force in international cricket.
Why Speed Matters in ODI Cricket?
- Faster deliveries force batters to react quickly, increasing the chance of mistakes.
- Pace bowling can create thrilling match moments, shifting the game’s momentum.
- Speedsters help teams dominate on different pitch conditions, especially in fast-bowler-friendly environments.
The ICC Champions Trophy has always been a stage for raw pace and thrilling moments. From Brett Lee’s supremacy to Mark Wood’s recent feat, the history of fast bowling in the tournament continues to evolve. With upcoming editions, new records are bound to be set, keeping cricket lovers on the edge of their seats.
Check out the Champions Trophy Stats
