The Indian Premier League (IPL) is known for its high-intensity matches, thrilling finishes, and exceptional cricketing moments. However, a rather unusual event caught everyone’s attention during a recent match when Mumbai Indians (MI) pacer Satyanarayana Raju delivered an unexpectedly slow ball that completely surprised Rajasthan Royals’ star batter Jos Buttler.
A Delivery Unlike Any Other
During the game between Mumbai Indians and Rajasthan Royals, Raju, known for his controlled pace and variations, bowled an incredibly slow delivery, leaving Buttler visibly perplexed. The ball, which traveled at a remarkably low speed, took longer than usual to reach the batter, forcing Buttler to adjust his shot at the last moment. The delivery became an instant talking point, as cricket experts and fans debated whether it was the slowest ball ever bowled in IPL history.
How Slow Was It?
Though official records are yet to confirm whether Raju’s delivery was the slowest ever, reports suggest it was significantly below 100 km/h, making it one of the rarest instances in fast bowling. Typically, even slower variations from pacers clock around 110-120 km/h, making Raju’s ball a surprising outlier.
Buttler’s Reaction and Social Media Buzz
Jos Buttler, known for his aggressive stroke play, was caught off guard by the unexpected dip in pace. His delayed reaction to the ball amused cricket fans, with some comparing it to spinners’ deliveries rather than a pacer’s. Social media platforms were abuzz with discussions, memes, and debates over whether this delivery was a strategic move or an unintentional misfire.
Where Does It Stand in IPL History?
While the IPL has seen several bowlers perfect the slower-ball technique, such as Dwayne Bravo, Jasprit Bumrah, and Mustafizur Rahman, Raju’s delivery stood out due to its extremely low speed. Cricket analysts are now waiting for official confirmation regarding the exact speed of the ball to determine whether it breaks any previous records.
A New Weapon in Raju’s Arsenal?
Slower deliveries are often used as deceptive weapons in T20 cricket, particularly in death overs, to outfox batters expecting pace. If Raju intentionally bowled the delivery as a tactical move, it could signal a new variation in his skill set—one that may prove crucial in future IPL matches.
Final Thoughts
Whether or not this turns out to be the slowest ball in IPL history, Satyanarayana Raju’s unexpected delivery has certainly etched itself into the tournament’s folklore. With Mumbai Indians seeking to gain an edge in their campaign, Raju’s ability to mix up his pace could be a game-changer in upcoming matches. Fans will now keenly watch if he deploys this variation again—and how batters respond to it.
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