ISLAMABAD: Akif Javed, Pakistan’s talented left-arm fast bowler, has set his sights on following in the footsteps of the legendary pacer Shoaib Akhtar, expressing his ambition to etch his name in the annals of cricket history.
In a YouTube video released by the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), Akif revealed, “While my fastest delivery has reached 145 kph, my ultimate goal is to unleash the fastest ball in cricket’s legacy.”
The PCB shared this documentary, originally produced in 2020, as a nostalgic glimpse into Akif’s journey as he prepares to join the national team for the upcoming series against New Zealand.
Akif articulated his aspirations, stating, “I aspire to be the fastest bowler, just like Shoaib Akhtar.” The record for the fastest delivery in international cricket remains Akhtar’s astonishing 161.3 kph thunderbolt, delivered against England in 2003.
Reflecting on his early struggles, Akif shared, “From a young age, cricket has been my passion. I played tape ball games in my village and juggled working with my father in a shop while nurturing my cricket dreams. Often, I found it difficult to focus on my work, as my mind was consumed by thoughts of cricket.”
Akif first caught the public’s attention when he claimed the wicket of veteran Mohammad Hafeez during the National T20 Cup in Faisalabad. He revealed that he looks up to Mohammad Amir, his favourite bowler, and strives to emulate his swinging deliveries.
“I try to replicate Amir’s technique and focus on the swing. During my trials, I clocked around 146 kph, and since joining the NCA, the coaches have dedicated themselves to refining my skills,” he added.
