In the 2003 Cricket World Cup in South Africa, Pakistan pacer Shoaib Akhtar famously bowled a delivery clocking 161.3 km/h against England in Cape Town, a record that remains unmatched. However, during the first Test between India and Australia in Adelaide, an unexpected controversy arose.
In Australia’s first innings, during the 25th over bowled by Indian pacer Mohammed Siraj, the speed gun on the television broadcast displayed a speed of 181.6 km/h for a delivery that Marnus Labuschagne struck for four through backward point. This figure, far surpassing Shoaib Akhtar’s record, left cricket fans astonished and questioning its authenticity.
Upon review, it was confirmed that the reading was an error caused by the speed gun malfunctioning. Siraj’s delivery did not surpass Akhtar’s record. The incident generated widespread attention on social media, with fans sharing humorous memes and comments about the technical glitch.
The game itself saw Australia dismiss India for 180 in their first innings and end Day 1 at 86/1, trailing by 94 runs. A total of 11 wickets fell on the opening day of play.
