NEW DELHI: Former Australian fast bowler Brett Lee celebrated his 48th birthday on Friday, with heartfelt wishes pouring in from the global cricketing community. Known as one of the fastest bowlers in cricket history, Lee’s exceptional pace and match-winning abilities made him a key player in Australia’s dominant run in the late 1990s and early 2000s.
Fondly referred to as “Binga,” Lee is remembered for forming one of the most fearsome bowling partnerships alongside Glenn McGrath, as part of Australia’s all-conquering side. His lightning-quick deliveries, often exceeding 150 kph, and deadly yorkers earned him a reputation as one of the game’s greatest fast bowlers.
IPL teams led the birthday wishes for Lee, who enjoys immense popularity in India.
The Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) took to social media, posting, “From lightning deliveries to heartfelt memories in India – Binga, you’re truly one of a kind. Happy Birthday!”
Lord’s Cricket Ground also paid tribute, writing, “Enjoy some trademark @BrettLee_58 toe-crushing yorkers. Wishing one of Australia’s finest a very Happy Birthday.”
Meanwhile, the Punjab Kings recalled Lee’s time in the IPL, where he became the franchise’s first-ever wicket-taker. “Sending birthday cheers to our first-ever IPL wicket-taker! Wishing a Lee-gendary day to BINGA,” the team posted.
Lee made his international debut in the 1999 Boxing Day Test against India, where he made an immediate impact by taking 5-47 in the first innings. His One-Day International debut followed in January 2000 against Pakistan. Over his career, Lee played 76 Test matches, amassing 310 wickets. However, his greatest success came in the ODI format, where he took 380 wickets in 221 matches at an impressive average of 23.36.
As Brett Lee turns 48, the cricketing world continues to celebrate the legacy of one of Australia’s finest fast bowlers.
