Mon Jan 27 21:12:31 UTC 2025: ## Bumrah Makes History: First Indian Pacer to Win ICC Men’s Test Cricketer of the Year
**MUMBAI, INDIA** – Jasprit Bumrah has etched his name in cricketing history, becoming the first Indian fast bowler to be awarded the ICC Men’s Test Cricketer of the Year for 2024. The 31-year-old pacer beat out stiff competition from Joe Root, Travis Head, and Kamindu Mendis to claim the prestigious award.
Bumrah’s exceptional 2024 season saw him claim a remarkable 71 wickets in just 13 matches, at an astounding average of 14.92. His performances were particularly dominant in the away Border-Gavaskar series against Australia and the home series against England. He was instrumental in India’s performance in Australia, taking a series-high 32 wickets – the joint-most by any bowler in a single Border-Gavaskar series. This exceptional tally contributed significantly to India’s strong performance, mitigating a potential bigger loss than the 3-1 final score.
Bumrah’s return to Test cricket in late 2023 after injury was nothing short of spectacular. He quickly established his dominance, picking up wickets consistently across various series. His contribution included three five-wicket hauls and two four-wicket hauls in the Australia series alone.
This accolade places Bumrah among an elite group of six Indian cricketers to win the ICC Men’s Test Cricketer of the Year award since its inception in 2004. His 71 wickets also made him the highest wicket-taker in Test cricket for 2024, surpassing Gus Atkinson’s 52 wickets. He is only the fourth Indian to achieve 70 or more wickets in a single calendar year in Test cricket. The award underlines Bumrah’s remarkable skill and unwavering dedication to the game, cementing his position as one of India’s greatest pace bowlers.
First Piper 