5 legendary fast bowlers who earned attractive nicknames

#4 Michael Holding (Whispering Death)

Michael Holding was a fearsome fast bowler

One of the fastest bowlers to ever play the game, Michael Holding haunted batsmen around the globe with his fierce pace and unpredictable range of deliveries. He had a long run-up but charged in with a very quiet approach to the crease. Yet, his deliveries reached speeds in excess of 150 kph and hence umpires gave him the nickname 'Whispering Death'.

Holding, along with Andy Roberts, Joel Garner and Malcolm Marshall, formed probably the best fast bowling attack in the history of the game. During England’s tour of the West Indies in 1981, he bowled what is regarded as the 'Greatest over in Test history' to legendary batsman Geoffrey Boycott.

Having played 60 Tests, Holding picked 249 wickets at an average of 23.68 with a best haul of 8/92. Post-retirement, the iconic pacer has been busy with commentary duties.