In the ever-evolving realm of cricket, the spotlight often shines on the illustrious batters, but it's time to pivot the focus onto one of India's key bowlers – the sensational Jasprit Bumrah. Beyond the boundaries and wickets, Bumrah has been carving a name for himself with record-breaking performances in Test cricket, leaving an indelible mark on the sport.
Rewind to August 31, 2019, marked a defining moment in Bumrah's career. The Caribbean breeze carried the whispers of history as Bumrah weaved magic against the West Indies in Kingston. His remarkable figures of 6/27 not only dismantled the hosts for a mere 117 in response to India's 416 but also included a hat-trick. Bumrah etched his name as the third Indian to achieve this rare feat, a milestone that remains untouched by any Indian bowler since.
Fast forward to Newlands, where Bumrah showcased his prowess with the ball, concluding the test with figures of 6/61 in the second innings. This remarkable display earned him his third five-wicket haul in South Africa, a feat he shares with the legendary Javagal Srinath. Bumrah's compatriot, Mohammed Shami, might have two fifers in South Africa among active Indian players, but it's Bumrah who stands as a testament to consistency and excellence.
The historic Boxing Day Test in 2018 witnessed Bumrah's dominance as he played a pivotal role in India's first-ever victory at the MCG. His incredible figures of 6/33 not only contributed to Australia's dismissal for 151 but also marked the best Test performance by an Indian at the iconic venue. Bumrah's prowess continued in the second innings, where he claimed three more wickets, thwarting Australia's attempt to chase down 399.
Bumrah's hat-trick in Kingston was merely a prelude to his historic feat in North Sound during the same series. In the first match, he orchestrated the downfall of the West Indies by taking 5/7 as they crumbled for 100 while chasing 419 – the least expensive five-wicket haul by an Indian in Tests. Bumrah now stands alone as the only Indian bowler with a fifer for less than 10 runs.
The evolution of Test cricket brought forth the Day/Night Tests, and Bumrah embraced the challenge. In Bengaluru, 2022, against Sri Lanka, he etched his name in history by becoming the fourth Indian bowler to take five wickets in a Pink Ball Test. His figures of 5/24 in just 10 overs orchestrated the Lankans' collapse for 109, underscoring his versatility and adaptability in different formats.
Beyond the dazzling performances, Bumrah's numbers tell a tale of consistent excellence. With an outstanding bowling average of 23.28 in Tests and 113 wickets in just 32 matches, he has already established himself as one of the greatest Test pacers. What's more intriguing is his dominance in overseas conditions, a testament to his ability to thrive in diverse cricketing landscapes.
Bumrah's influence extends beyond individual brilliance to rewriting records in the broader context of Asian bowlers in SENA countries. With a bowling average of 23.28 (min. 50 wickets), he outshines cricketing legends like Wasim Akram, Mohammad Asif, Muttiah Muralidharan, and Imran Khan. Bumrah's consistency and impact in SENA countries underline his ability to excel on foreign soil, a quality that cements his status as a bowling maestro.
In a cricketing landscape often dominated by batting prowess, Jasprit Bumrah's meteoric rise and record-breaking performances in Test cricket stand as a testament to the evolving dynamics of the sport. From historic hat-tricks to masterful performances with the pink ball, Bumrah's journey is a narrative of skill, determination, and an unwavering commitment to excellence. As fans celebrate the exploits of their favourite batters, Bumrah's feats remind us that the bowlers too can be the architects of cricketing history.
Edited by: Jonathan Nwabenu