Speed Demons: Mitchell Starc’s Close Call for ODI History

In the high-octane world of cricket, speed isn’t just an asset; it’s a weapon. During the recent ODI series between Australia and India, all eyes were glued to Mitchell Starc as he unveiled a delivery that had fans and pundits alike buzzing—clocked at a jaw-dropping 176.5 kmph. Was this the fastest delivery in ODI history? Let’s dig deeper into this extraordinary moment and its aftermath.

The Game-Changing Delivery

In the inaugural match of the series, Starc was at his fiery best. He sent a shiver down the spine of Indian captain Rohit Sharma with a ball that initially sparked claims of being the fastest ever recorded in the format. However, as replays confirmed, the speed was later adjusted to a more realistic—but still impressive—140.8 kmph. While the record books won’t need rewriting, this moment perfectly encapsulated Starc’s reputation as one of the game’s premier fast bowlers.

The match had its own twists, with Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma, both seasoned veterans, stumbling early in their innings. Starc’s dismissal of Kohli for a mere eight-ball duck left fans in shock—Kohli had never been out for a zero in ODIs on Australian soil before. With both players returning from a seven-month hiatus since India’s Champions Trophy victory, their lack of form turned heads and raised eyebrows.

The Aftermath: Hopes and Disappointments

As the cricket world dissected the day, one voice stood out—captain Shubman Gill. He urged calm, emphasizing lessons learned from early setbacks. “Never take it easy when you lose three wickets in the powerplay,” Gill reminded fans, underscoring the frustrating yet educational nature of the match.

Indian fans, once again, found themselves grappling with mixed emotions. Expectations were sky-high, but such was the volatility of sport. This loss snapped India’s impressive eight-match ODI winning streak in 2025, leaving everyone wondering what lies ahead.

A Bit of Context

Starc’s close brush with ODI history—and the subsequent upheaval in the Indian lineup—serves as a keen reminder of the sport’s unpredictability. For the fans, it’s essential to understand that even seasoned champions can face off days.

Conclusion: Embracing the Ups and Downs

Sport is a rollercoaster of highs and lows, and every player, no matter how great, can have a day to forget. As we celebrate Starc’s remarkable speed—a reminder of cricket’s thrilling unpredictability—fans should take heart in the journey of their heroes. Every match is a stepping stone, not just for records, but for growth and resilience.

Stay tuned for more exhilarating updates as the series unfolds!

Original article: https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/sports/cricket/india-vs-australia/176-5-kmph-did-mitchell-starc-bowl-the-fastest-ball-in-odi-history/articleshow/124699315.cms