Pakistani · Vehari, Punjab, Pakistan · Born 16 November 1971Pakistani fast bowler renowned for his devastating reverse swing bowling and lethal yorkers, forming legendary pace partnership with Wasim Akram in 1990s
Waqar Younis was born in Vehari, Punjab, Pakistan in 1971. He and Wasim Akram formed the most feared bowling partnership in Test cricket. His reverse swing yorkers — angled at the base of the stumps at high pace — were considered technically unplayable at his best. He took 373 Test wickets and 416 ODI wickets. He achieved 362 Test wickets before age 30 — faster than any other bowler in history. He later coached Pakistan.
Perfecting the art of reverse swing bowling and delivering some of the most unplayable yorkers in cricket history.
How They Played
Waqar Younis was renowned for his devastating yorkers, particularly his toe-crushing deliveries at the death. He mastered the art of reverse swing with the old ball, often swinging it late and at high pace to trouble even the best batsmen. His aggressive approach and ability to take wickets in clusters made him one of the most feared fast bowlers of his era.
Lasting Impact
Waqar revolutionized fast bowling with his yorker technique and reverse swing mastery, influencing a generation of pace bowlers worldwide. His partnership with Wasim Akram is considered one of the greatest bowling combinations in cricket history.
Career Honours
- World Cup 1992
- Wisden Cricketer of Year 1992
| Club | Period | Matches | Wickets |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lahore Blues | 1984–2003 | 78 | 421 |
| Surrey | 1990–2003 | 54 | 168 |
Pakistani Athletes