Ashok Sharma Clocks 154.2 kmph: Gujarat Titans Rookie Bowls Fastest Ball of IPL 2026
Gujarat Titans fast bowler Ashok Sharma registered the fastest delivery of the IPL 2026 season, sending down a 154.2 kmph yorker to Rajasthan Royals batter Dhruv Jurel. The 23-year-old pacer surpassed the previous tournament high of 150.9 kmph set by Anrich Nortje, establishing himself as a premier express bowler in the competition.
The Record-Breaking Over
Operating in the middle overs, Sharma consistently exceeded the 145 kmph mark. During his spell against Jurel, he breached the 150 kmph barrier twice. The record-breaking 154.2 kmph delivery was a pinpoint yorker that drew immediate attention from the speed gun and spectators. Sharma earned his spot in the Gujarat Titans playing XI following a standout domestic season where he finished as Rajasthan’s leading wicket-taker in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy.
Top Bowling Speeds in IPL 2026
| Bowler | Team | Speed (kmph) | Opposition |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ashok Sharma | Gujarat Titans | 154.2 | Rajasthan Royals |
| Anrich Nortje | Delhi Capitals | 150.9 | – |
Rajasthan Royals Post 210/6
Despite Sharma’s express pace, the Rajasthan Royals batting lineup capitalized on favorable batting conditions to post 210/6 after electing to bat first. The innings featured high strike rates across the top and middle order:
- Powerplay Start: Openers Yashasvi Jaiswal and Vaibhav Sooryavanshi engineered a 69-run partnership in the first six overs.
- Top Order Anchors: Jaiswal secured a rapid half-century before falling to the Gujarat spin attack.
- Middle Order Acceleration: Dhruv Jurel controlled the late overs, scoring 75 runs off 42 deliveries to ensure the total surpassed the 200-run mark.
The Chase: Gujarat Titans Without Shubman Gill
The Gujarat Titans bowling unit managed to restrict the run flow marginally in the final two overs, picking up quick wickets to stall Rajasthan’s momentum. However, a target of 211 demands a record run chase for the franchise. The Titans face a difficult task, particularly in the absence of their regular captain and opening batter, Shubman Gill. Fans can track the complete tournament statistics on ESPNcricinfo and follow official updates at BCCI.tv.