Did Mohammed Siraj Break the Fastest Ball in Cricket History with a Speed of 181 KMPH? A Look Back at His IND vs AUS Adelaide Test Performance

The second Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy between India and Australia has brought a host of exciting moments, and one particular event from Day 1 has set social media alight. Mohammed Siraj, the Indian pacer, was reportedly clocked at a jaw-dropping 181.6 km/h while bowling during the match at Adelaide Oval. This sparked a flurry of reactions and memes, with fans and pundits alike wondering if Siraj had actually shattered the record for the fastest delivery in cricket history.

Mohammed Siraj bowls a fastball of 181.6 km/h in IND vs AUS Adelaide Test

A Technical Glitch or a Record-Breaking Moment? The 181.6 km/h Debate

The moment in question came in the 25th over of the Indian innings on Day 1, when Siraj delivered a fierce delivery that was recorded at 181.6 km/h. For a brief moment, it appeared as though the Indian pacer had broken the world record for the fastest delivery, a record that had been held by Shoaib Akhtar at 161.3 km/h for years.

However, the euphoria was short-lived as it was later revealed that the reading was a result of a technical glitch. Despite the confusion, the ball itself showcased Siraj's growing pace and intensity on the field, marking a significant improvement in his performance.

A Heated Moment with Marnus Labuschagne

The drama didn't end there. Prior to this delivery, Marnus Labuschagne, Australia's top-order batter, had stepped away from the crease due to a fan distraction. A fan had been holding a beer snake near the sight screen, which caused a brief disruption in the match. Frustrated by the delay, Siraj exchanged heated words with Labuschagne, adding an extra layer of tension to an already fiery contest. After the brief break, Siraj was able to reset and bowl the delivery that created a buzz worldwide.

Mohammed Siraj's Form in the Adelaide Test

The Adelaide Test has always been a tricky proposition for fast bowlers, particularly with the challenges posed by the pink ball. Siraj, known for his fiery pace and aggressive approach, was keen to make his mark. Despite not picking up any wickets on the opening day, Siraj's pace and aggression stood out. His ability to maintain an attacking line and his intensity were evident in his efforts.

Earlier in the day, India's decision to bat first after winning the toss was quickly undone by Mitchell Starc, whose career-best figures of 6/48 put India on the back foot. The pink ball swung viciously under the lights, and the Australian bowlers made full use of the conditions. While Siraj's fiery pace could not get him any wickets, his performance in the middle overs was impressive, keeping Australia's top-order in check.

Day 2 Promises More Drama

At stumps on Day 1, Australia was 86/1, with Marnus Labuschagne and Nathan McSweeney at the crease. The match is expected to offer more excitement on Day 2, and Siraj will be hoping to make further strides as the series progresses. Despite the mix-up with the speed gun, the key takeaway is that Siraj's growing pace is a cause for celebration. With the support of experienced bowlers like Bumrah and Shami, he could soon find himself challenging the boundaries of fast bowling once again.

As the second Test continues, fans can expect more heated exchanges, thrilling pace, and perhaps a few more surprises from Mohammed Siraj in this eagerly contested series.