Bumrah’s Rise as a Test Cricket Icon
India’s premier fast bowler, Jasprit Bumrah, has been honored as the ICC Men’s Test Cricketer of the Year for 2024, a testament to his dominance in red-ball cricket. Returning from a serious back injury in late 2023, Bumrah made an extraordinary impact, finishing as the leading wicket-taker in Test cricket for the year. His brilliance across both home and away conditions proved vital in keeping India in strong contention for the ICC World Test Championship.
Bumrah’s unorthodox action, lethal accuracy, and ability to generate pace and movement have made him one of the most feared bowlers in world cricket. His performances in 2024 have further solidified his reputation as a modern-day legend.
Bumrah’s Remarkable Test Record in 2024
- Matches Played: 13
- Wickets Taken: 71
- Bowling Average: 14.92
- Strike Rate: 30.1
Bumrah’s 71 wickets put him far ahead of England’s Gus Atkinson (52 wickets), making him the undisputed leading wicket-taker in Test cricket in 2024. His phenomenal bowling average of 14.92 is the best among all bowlers who have taken over 70 wickets in a calendar year.
Additionally, he became only the fourth Indian bowler to claim 70+ wickets in a year, joining the elite company of Kapil Dev, Anil Kumble, and Ravichandran Ashwin. Notably, Bumrah is the only bowler in Test history with 200+ wickets at an average below 20, further emphasizing his extraordinary consistency.
Key Performances That Defined His Year
Sensational Start in South Africa
Bumrah kicked off 2024 with a match-winning spell in Cape Town, where his eight-wicket haul helped India secure a commanding victory over South Africa. His performance showcased his ability to dominate even in challenging overseas conditions.
Home Domination Against England
In the five-Test series against England, Bumrah was a key figure, picking up 19 wickets and playing a crucial role in India’s 4-1 series win. His ability to generate reverse swing and consistently trouble English batters highlighted his mastery of red-ball cricket.
Historic Border-Gavaskar Series in Australia
Bumrah’s defining moment of the year came during the Border-Gavaskar Trophy in Australia, where he finished with a staggering 32 wickets in five Tests, earning the Player of the Series award. His relentless spells troubled the Australian batters throughout the series, making him India’s most valuable player.
During this series, Bumrah also achieved a personal milestone, crossing the 200-wicket mark in Test cricket, becoming the 12th Indian bowler to do so. He remains the only bowler in Test history with 200+ wickets at an average under 20, an unprecedented record.
Leadership and Captaincy
With Rohit Sharma unavailable for the first Test in Perth, Bumrah stepped up as a leader on the field, guiding the team to a famous victory. His sharp tactical acumen, aggressive field placements, and ability to inspire teammates underscored his potential as a future captain for India.
A Golden Year for Bumrah
Jasprit Bumrah’s 2024 Test performances have not only won him the ICC Men’s Test Cricketer of the Year award, but have also solidified his place among India’s greatest fast bowlers. His ability to deliver match-winning spells in all conditions, combined with his leadership skills, makes him a true asset to Indian cricket.
As India eyes the ICC World Test Championship Final in 2025, Bumrah will be the X-factor in their pursuit of the coveted title. If his 2024 performances are anything to go by, the best of Jasprit Bumrah in Test cricket is still yet to come.
(With inputs from agencies)
