India's bowling maestro Jasprit Bumrah scripts history, crowned ICC Test Cricketer of 2024
PTC Web Desk: Jasprit Bumrah has been crowned the ICC Test Cricketer of the Year for 2024, becoming the sixth Indian cricketer to win the prestigious award. Bumrah joins an elite list of Indian legends, including Rahul Dravid (2004), Gautam Gambhir (2009), Virender Sehwag (2010), Ravichandran Ashwin (2016), and Virat Kohli (2018). With this achievement, India has now equalled Australia's record for the most players to win this honour.
The star pacer was instrumental in India's success throughout 2024, taking an extraordinary 71 wickets in just 13 Test matches. This made him the highest wicket-taker in the format for the year, surpassing England’s Gus Atkinson, who picked up 52 wickets in 11 matches. Bumrah’s stellar year was marked by consistency, resilience, and match-winning performances both at home and in challenging overseas conditions.
Jasprit Bumrah made a triumphant return to Test cricket in late 2023 after a prolonged absence due to a back injury. His impact was immediate, as he spearheaded India to series victories against England and Bangladesh on home soil. He also delivered exceptional performances in away conditions in South Africa and Australia, proving his mettle in some of the most challenging environments.
Bumrah bowled a staggering 357 overs in the year, maintaining an impressive economy rate of 2.96. His average of 14.92 and strike rate of 30.1 set him apart in an era dominated by aggressive Test batting. With this feat, Bumrah became only the fourth Indian bowler to claim more than 70 Test wickets in a calendar year, joining the ranks of Kapil Dev, Anil Kumble, and Ravichandran Ashwin.
One of Bumrah’s most memorable performances came during the first Test against Australia in Perth. Leading the side in the absence of regular skipper Rohit Sharma, Bumrah delivered a remarkable all-around display. Despite India being dismissed for just 150 in the first innings, Bumrah ignited a comeback with his fiery bowling, claiming 5/30.
India staged a strong second-innings performance to set Australia a mammoth target of 534. Bumrah sealed the victory with another brilliant spell, taking 3/42 as India registered a commanding 295-run win. This match also marked Australia’s first-ever loss at the venue, further underscoring Bumrah’s impact as a leader and bowler.
- PTC NEWS
