Fast bowling has always been one of the most exciting aspects of watching a cricket game. Bowlers who have the ability to deliver the ball, moving it at high speeds has never failed to thrill a cricketing crowd.
In fact, it is a style of bowling that requires both skill, endurance and strength, which can make it very challenging for the batters particularly as it is delivered at very high speeds.
Notably, such fast bowlers generally tend to find themselves at the end of a high risk of injury, throughout their career. Therefore, there is a lot of biomechanics involved in their bowling as well.
However, fans as such do not have to worry about the many complexities. Instead, they are thrilled and in awe of the different styles of bowling actions of their favourite bowlers.
In a recent post on the social media platform X (formerly twitter), ex-cricketer and fast bowler from South Africa Dale Steyn made a post asking his followers: "The most beautiful fast bowlers' action of all time…? I’ll start. Allan Donald"
The most beautiful fast bowlers action of all time…?
— Dale Steyn (@DaleSteyn62) August 25, 2024
I’ll start.
Allan Donald
In this article, The Sporting News looks at fast bowlers with some of the most beautiful bowling actions in cricket history.
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Fast bowlers with the most beautiful bowling actions in cricket history
Allan Donald
South African fast bowler Allan Donald who is popularly nicknamed as the "White Lightning" was one of the most frightening bowlers of his time, with a smooth and simple bowling action.
He picked up over 600 wickets in his international career playing for the Proteas nation in Tests and 50-over cricket.
I think Allan Donald had best of Bowling Action ever. https://t.co/jEPzqMTDSJ
— Sushim (@sushimexplorer) August 24, 2024
Wasim Akram
The Pakistan fast bowler Wasim Akram known as the "Sultan of Swing" had one of the most elegant bowling actions in world cricket.
During his career, he formed a fierce duo with Waqar Younis, tormenting the opposition batters left, right and center, with their quick and skillful bowling.
Happy birthday, Wasim Akram
— Eco Vibes 🌍 (@EcoVibeExplorer) June 3, 2024
World's finest left arm fast bowler of all time..
I feel really honoured to be born in the era where I watched Wasim Akram bowling live and even live in the stadium..
Stay blessed, Sir! @wasimakramlive pic.twitter.com/DJ3eHsVeT6
Dale Steyn
The South African Dale Steyn is arguably the greatest fast bowler of the 21st century, who is considered to be one of the versatile quicks of the recent generation.
His mastery over swing coupled with his express pace bowling made him stand out among the crowd. Moreover, his bowling action was a fan favourite, and during his prime, it wouldn't have been a surprise to come up across kids imitating his run-up and bowling action.
With Dale Steyn announcing his retirement from Test cricket, here's every wicket he took on Aussie soil. Legend. pic.twitter.com/1pScSNhp8X
— cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) August 5, 2019
James Anderson
The English fast bowler not only had one of the best cricketing careers ever with 21 years at the top level, but he also had a smooth bowling action, and his consistency couple with precision made him a challenging customer for the batters.
Jimmy Anderson's final ever Test wicket, set to the Titanic music - because why not? 😭 pic.twitter.com/emkeanKMBQ
— England Cricket (@englandcricket) July 12, 2024
Michael Holding
Facing the tall, dominating figure of Michael Holding would strike fear among the opposition batters of his time.
Apart from his exceptional record in the history books and lethal deliveries, the Caribbean pacer will be remembered for his rhythmic run-up as he delivered the ball in a very relaxed manner. He arguably has one of the most beautiful actions of all time.
MORE: Who are best swing bowlers in cricket history?
