Jasprit Bumrah is enjoying a stellar 2024 with the ball, excelling across formats and playing a key role in India’s ICC trophy win. However, it is in the Test format where Bumrah has truly shined.
He began the year by decimating England in a 4-1 Test series victory, claiming 19 wickets at an impressive average of 16.89, including a five-wicket haul. His dominance continued in the first Test against Bangladesh in Chennai, where he took five wickets, including four in the first innings.
While Bumrah’s rise has been remarkable, his teammate Ravichandran Ashwin has also been in top form. Ashwin tormented England, picking up 26 wickets at an average of 22.81, and delivered a match-winning six-wicket haul against Bangladesh in Chennai.
Currently, Ashwin leads the ICC Test bowlers’ rankings with 871 points, but Bumrah is not far behind in second place with 854 points. With Bumrah in top form, he has a real shot at overtaking Ashwin. However, to dethrone him, Bumrah must continue his brilliance in the upcoming Kanpur Test, while Ashwin would need to underperform—unlikely given the spin-friendly conditions in Kanpur.
Looking ahead, Bumrah could have a better chance in Australia, where India will play a five-match series. With Australia’s pace-friendly pitches, Bumrah is set to play all matches, while Ashwin might be benched. This could give Bumrah the edge to overtake Ashwin in the rankings.
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