What Made Jasprit Bumrah The Best Test Cricketer In 2024?

Rajgeeta Yadav

Jasprit Bumrah wins Men's Test Cricketer of the Year [Source: @CricCrazyJohns/X.com]Jasprit Bumrah wins Men's Test Cricketer of the Year [Source: @CricCrazyJohns/X.com]

Jasprit Bumrah has been crowned the ICC Men’s Test Cricketer of the Year for 2024. This recognition is a testament to his incredible performances with the red ball throughout the year, cementing his status as one of the most formidable bowlers in modern cricket. Here's a breakdown of why Bumrah stood out among the best in the world.

Jasprit Bumrah Dominated In 2024 

Bumrah had a phenomenal year, playing 13 Tests and picking up a staggering 71 wickets, the highest for any bowler in 2024. What’s more impressive is his exceptional bowling average of 14.92, which highlights his ability to consistently trouble batters in all conditions. His tally included five five-wicket hauls, underlining his knack for delivering match-winning spells.

Bumrah’s 71 wickets were 19 more than the second-highest wicket-taker, Gus Atkinson, who took 52 wickets. This sheer dominance made him an obvious choice for the award.

Leading India To Victory in Australia

One of Bumrah’s most memorable performances came during India’s tour of Australia. Stepping in as captain in the absence of Rohit Sharma, Bumrah led from the front in the Perth Test. After India was bowled out for just 150 in the first innings, Bumrah turned the game around with a brilliant five-wicket haul, setting the stage for a remarkable comeback. He followed it up with three more wickets in the second innings, guiding India to a massive 295-run win. This performance earned him the Player of the Match award and propelled him back to the top of the ICC Men’s Test Bowling Rankings.

Bumrah’s brilliance wasn’t limited to pace-friendly tracks in countries like South Africa and Australia. He was equally effective on Indian pitches, which are traditionally less supportive of fast bowlers. His ability to adapt and excel in diverse conditions showcased his versatility and skill.

Bumrah’s journey in 2024 was even more remarkable because it followed his recovery from a recurring back injury that sidelined him for much of 2023. 

Jasprit Bumrah Outshines Root, Brook and Mendis

The competition for the ICC Men’s Test Cricketer of the Year award was fierce. Bumrah outperformed:

  • Joe Root (England): Scored 1556 runs in 17 Tests at an average of 55.57, including six centuries.
  • Harry Brook (England): Amassed 1100 runs in 12 Tests at a strike rate of 85, with a maiden triple century.
  • Kamindu Mendis (Sri Lanka): Scored 1049 runs in nine Tests at an extraordinary average of 74.92.