In yet another thrilling clash between Punjab Kings and Mumbai Indians, Jasprit Bumrah added another feather to his already impressive cap by equaling Umesh Yadav’s record for the most Player of the Match awards by a pacer in IPL history, with a total of 10 accolades to his name.
Bumrah’s Pivotal Role in MI’s Victory
Continuing his stellar form in this IPL season, Bumrah once again emerged as the game-changer for MI in a closely contested match. Tasked with defending a target of 192 runs in Mullanpur, Bumrah made an immediate impact by delivering a world-class yorker to dismiss Rilee Rossouw early in the innings (Watch the Jasprit Bumrah bowling highlights for this dismissal).
Following Rossouw’s dismissal, Bumrah struck again in the same over, removing PBKS captain Sam Curran, who fell prey to a flick shot attempt on the leg side. Bumrah’s conviction led to a successful review after the initial decision of not out.
Later in the innings, when Shashank Singh threatened to take the game away from MI alongside Ashutosh Sharma, Bumrah intervened once more, claiming Shashank’s wicket with the first ball of his third over. Despite Ashutosh’s aggressive batting, Bumrah maintained his composure, conceding just 3 runs in his final over when PBKS required 28 runs from 24 balls.
Finishing with figures of 3/21, Bumrah was rightfully awarded the Player of the Match.
Bumrah’s Milestone Achievement
With two Player of the Match awards in three games this season, Bumrah equaled Umesh Yadav’s record of 10 such awards in the IPL, the most by a pacer. Remarkably, Bumrah achieved this feat in 19 fewer innings than Umesh. The only bowler ahead of Bumrah in this regard is his mentor, Lasith Malinga, with 6 awards.
Given Bumrah’s current form and career trajectory, it’s highly likely that he will surpass this record and establish a new benchmark for pacers in the IPL.
Up next, Mumbai Indians will face table-toppers Rajasthan Royals away from home at Sawai Mansingh Stadium, Jaipur on Monday, April 22.
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