Rising left-arm pacer, Akif Javed, has expressed his determination to become one of the fastest bowlers in cricket history, drawing inspiration from legendary speedster Shoaib Akhtar.
In a documentary originally produced in 2020 and recently shared by the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), Akif discussed his bowling ambitions.
He noted that while his fastest delivery so far has been recorded at 145 kph, he aims to surpass that and deliver the fastest ball in cricket history.
The documentary was re-released as Akif prepares to join the national squad for the upcoming series white balls series against New Zealand.
He acknowledged the 161.3 kph record, bowled by the Rawalpindi Express against England in the 2003 World Cup, as the benchmark he hopes to challenge.
Reflecting on his early struggles, Akif recalled his passion for cricket from a young age. He juggled playing tape-ball cricket in his village with assisting his father at a shop, often finding it difficult to concentrate on work due to his love for the sport.
His talent came into the limelight when he dismissed veteran Mohammad Hafeez during the National T20 Cup in Faisalabad. He also revealed his admiration for Mohammad Amir, emphasizing his efforts to replicate his swing bowling technique.
Since joining the National Cricket Academy (NCA), coaches have been working on refining his skills, helping him further improve his speed and swing.
