Watch: Nasser Hussain takes the highest catch ever to set Guinness World Record

After more than a decade since he retired from all forms of the sport, Nasser Hussain has broken the Guinness World Record for taking the highest catch of all-time. During a challenge mounted by Sky Sports at the historic Lords stadium, the former England captain managed to pouch a cricket ball dropped from an aerial drone from a great height.

Hussain had three attempts in which he needed to safely catch a ball from at least 100 feet. A ‘Batcam’ drone was utilised to facilitate the feat by releasing the ball at an estimated velocity of 74 miles per hour.

A useful slip fielder in his playing days, the 48-year old turned back the clock with a successful grab in the first effort itself. Not satisfied with the end result, he escalated the stakes by increasing the stipulated height.

Consequently, the right-hander caught the red ball from 49 meters (160 feet and 9.1 inches) amidst windy conditions to carve out a place for himself in the iconic Guinness World Records. However, he could not get anywhere near the final one that was dropped at a whopping 400 feet.

A beaming Hussain enthused, “Sky Sports are always looking to push the limits and be innovative in their approach to coverage, and this was certainly a very different experience for me.“

He added, “It was great fun attempting to catch cricket balls dropped from a drone at the home of cricket - something I never thought I would do. But I am now looking forward to giving my hands a rest and getting back to the commentary box for the upcoming Test match.“

Born in Chennai (then Madras), Hussain represented England in 96 Tests and 88 ODIs from 1990 to 2004. Taking over the captaincy from Alec Stewart, he resuscitated English cricket with a no-nonsense leadership approach. Since hanging up his boots, the middle-order batsman has been associated with Sky Sports as a commentator.

Here is the full video of Nasser Hussain’s record-setting feat: (Video Courtesy: Guinness World Records)