Mon Jan 27 14:59:10 UTC 2025: **Jasprit Bumrah Crowned ICC Men’s Test Cricketer of the Year**
MUMBAI, INDIA – Jasprit Bumrah has been named the ICC Men’s Test Cricketer of the Year for his outstanding performance in 2024. The Indian speedster’s phenomenal year saw him claim a staggering 71 wickets at an average of 14.92 and a strike rate of 30.1, significantly outperforming England’s Gus Atkinson who finished second with 52 wickets.
Bumrah’s dominance was evident across various series. He spearheaded India’s victories against England (19 wickets in a 4-1 series win) and notably, Australia, where he took an impressive 32 wickets in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, earning him the Player of the Series award. His performance in Australia included a five-wicket haul in Perth and a crucial role in India’s series win despite suffering a back spasm in Sydney.
Bumrah’s achievements extend beyond individual accolades. He is the first Indian pacer and only the fourth Indian bowler (after Ashwin, Kumble, and Kapil Dev) to capture over 70 Test wickets in a single calendar year. He also became the 12th Indian bowler to surpass 200 Test wickets and the only bowler with at least 200 dismissals to maintain an average under 20 (19.4). His consistent excellence in both home and away conditions cemented his place as a force to be reckoned with in the world of Test cricket. Bumrah beat out strong competition from Joe Root and Harry Brook (England) and Kamindu Mendis (Sri Lanka) to claim the prestigious award.
First Piper 