5 Unlikely Cricket Records That’ll Surprise Even the Die-Hard Fans | Unique Cricket Records

Cricket is certainly the most splendid and the greatest game that mankind has invented. The dramas, the performances, the thrill, the skills, and the entertainment it offers are second to no other game. And what makes it more fascinating is how the unachievable is achieved only to be replaced. Every year, stars and players trouble the record books with several interesting cricket records that are made and broken. We bring you some of the most unlikely cricket records of all time.

1. Shane Warne and Sanath Jayasuriya: Unexpected Wicket-Takers

Shane Warne, the legendary spinner, is known for his mastery of bamboozling batsmen. However, what may surprise you is that he has taken 293 One-Day International (ODI) wickets, while Sanath Jayasuriya, primarily an opening batsman, has taken 323 ODI wickets. Yes, you read that right! These two iconic players have left cricket fans amazed by their unexpected bowling achievements.

2. The Mighty Number 8 Batsman: Wasim Akram’s Thundering Knock

Imagine a number 8 batsman stepping onto the crease. No expectations, you might say. However, the mighty all-rounder from Pakistan, Wasim Akram, stunned the cricketing world with his thundering knock of 257* against Zimbabwe. This remarkable innings showcased the incredible talent and power possessed by this lower-order batsman. It is a feat that left fans in awe, considering that some of the highest test scores of legends like Sachin Tendulkar, Sourav Ganguly, and Jacques Kallis are in the range of 224 to 248.

3. Jason Gillespie’s Last Test Match Heroics

Playing the last game of your life might lead to performance pressure for many, but not for Jason Gillespie. The Australian fast bowler, who has been an inspiration for tailenders ever since he retired, scored a double century (201*) in his final test match against Bangladesh. It’s fascinating to note that this was not only his last test but also his first-ever test century. Gillespie’s unexpected achievement demonstrates the immense talent and determination of players in the world of cricket.

4. Ajit Agarkar’s Lightning-Fast ODI 50

Ajit Agarkar, the famous all-rounder of the Indian team from the 90s, holds the record for the fastest ODI 50 by an Indian player to date. In a breathtaking display of power hitting, he hammered his half-century off just 21 balls. Agarkar’s explosive batting prowess in limited-overs cricket left the opposition stunned and etched his name in the record books.

5. Shahid Afridi’s Explosive Batting Style

The Pakistani heartthrob all-rounder, Shahid Afridi, has been known for his explosive batting style. Aptly named ‘Boom Boom Afridi,’ it is no surprise that he’s never been at the crease for more than 100 balls. Afridi’s aggressive approach and ability to hit boundaries at will have made him a fan favorite, even though his time at the crease may be short-lived.

Also Read: Top Batsmen with Most Centuries in IPL History (2008-2023)